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Mazda considering bringing
third crossover vehicle to U.S. market
MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News
Posted Date: 11/7/05
LOS ANGELES -- Mazda North American Operations is considering a third crossover for its lineup.
The company declined to confirm the vehicle, but statements by executives and other evidence point to the company's plans.
The vehicle will be in addition to the Tribute, which is already in the lineup, and the CX-7, which will launch early next year.
Mazda has filed a copyright with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the name "CX-9."
"If the CX-7 is considered a compact crossover, then the CX-9 would be considered a medium-sized crossover," said Mazda Motor CEO Hisakazu Imaki in an interview.
The CX-7 is based on the Mazda6 platform. A Mazda source said that the CX-9 would be based on a stretched version of the Mazda6, rather than share underpinnings with the upcoming Ford Edge.
"We want to compete in more segments with more variants," said Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations. "As our financial situation improves, we can invest in more products. North America is the focus."
third crossover vehicle to U.S. market
MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News
Posted Date: 11/7/05
LOS ANGELES -- Mazda North American Operations is considering a third crossover for its lineup.
The company declined to confirm the vehicle, but statements by executives and other evidence point to the company's plans.
The vehicle will be in addition to the Tribute, which is already in the lineup, and the CX-7, which will launch early next year.
Mazda has filed a copyright with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the name "CX-9."
"If the CX-7 is considered a compact crossover, then the CX-9 would be considered a medium-sized crossover," said Mazda Motor CEO Hisakazu Imaki in an interview.
The CX-7 is based on the Mazda6 platform. A Mazda source said that the CX-9 would be based on a stretched version of the Mazda6, rather than share underpinnings with the upcoming Ford Edge.
"We want to compete in more segments with more variants," said Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations. "As our financial situation improves, we can invest in more products. North America is the focus."