Mazda plots five new models by 2016

Mazda will launch five next-generation models within three years according to the firm's UK boss.

The Japanese marque will look to continue its current product offensive in an effort to aimed at "rebooting" the brand, said UK managing director Jeremy Thompson.

Those models are likely to include the new Mazda 2, due in 2014, and the new MX-5 sports car one year later. Both cars are currently in development, and the MX-5 has already been spotted testing alongside its Alfa Romeo sister car.

Replacements for the Mazda 5 MPV and Mazda CX-5 compact SUV are also expected to be in production by 2016, alongside an all-new 4x4. The new SUV lineup was confirmed by Mazda president Takashi Yamanouchi at the Frankfurt motor show earlier this year.

"Over the next 18 months to two years we will continue our very strong product-led growth," said Thomson "We’re predicting good times ahead while the rest of the industry is predicted to be relatively flat."