Mazda has revealed the first glimpse of its new design language: the Shinari concept, which has its motor show debut at the LA motor show later today.
The Japanese manufacturer first wheeled out the four-door coupe show car at a design event in Milan back in August, but chose not to bring it to September's Paris motor show.
See the pics of the new Mazda Shinari - now updated with LA show pics
The new design language is called Kodo, which means 'soul of motion' in Japanese. It's designed to replace the nature-influenced Nagare language.
The firm's global design chief, Ikeo Maeda, told journalists at the Milan event that the car "will lead to the next generation of Mazda design".
Read Hilton Holloway's blog about Mazda's future
The future of the Shinari concept is less clear. It could be a close preview of the next-generation Mazda 6, test mules of which were unveiled at last week's Mazda engineering showcase.
Alternatively, a modified version of the Shinari could become an indirect successor to the RX-8, which has become a victim of Euro5 emissions regulations.
The Shinari's key styling cues include a prominent, gaping-mouth grille that does away with Nagare's 'smiling face', ultra-slim headlights and an Aston Martin-esque side vent just behind the front wheels. Inside, the concept is a strict four-seater.See all the latest reviews, news and video
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Re: Mazda Shinari shows new look
It will as ever be interesting to see how much of this makes it into production. It is to my eyes a different and interesting design perhaps not all of it works but I would like to see them bring out something like it.
Re: Mazda Shinari shows new look
Yes, this is exactly what the new XJ should have looked like! A low slung apparition rather than that boxy rubbish designed with a crayon.
Re: Mazda Shinari shows new look
I love it, best looking Mazda ever (original Cosmo included). I also like the way they haven't been to adventurous with the mechanical bits. Most concepts these days seem to be based around some futuristic powertrain that doesn't quite exist yet. While all these alternative powertrains are undeniably cool, we're always wondering how long (if ever) it will be before they make production. The Shinari, on the other hand, looks like it could be put into production tomorrow. By the way, I also quite liked the old Nagare design language. Am I the only one?