Currently reading: Geneva motor show 2011: Mazda Minagi

New small SUV concept will be called CX-5 when it goes on sale in the autumn

Mazda’s Minagi concept is making its world debut at Geneva — and previewing a new crossover that will be the first model to get Mazda’s next-gen Skyactiv engine, transmission and lightweight chassis technologies.

The production model is expected to be called the CX-5 and will arrive in the autumn. Sources say it’s likely to be slightly smaller than the Minagi.

See official pics of the Mazda Minagi

Mazda claims that its Skyactiv tech will improve the average fuel economy of its global range by 30 per cent by 2015, compared with 2008’s figures.

The Minagi will give Mazda a genuine rival for the VW Tiguan and Audi Q5, particularly important in the SUV-loving US, where the Q5 in particular is proving a hit for Audi. Test mules carrying the bodywork from the larger CX-7 were recently spied undergoing winter tests.

Mazda's stand at the Geneva show will also feature new 'Skyactiv' technology exhibits and the Mazda Shinari design concept car, which will make its European debut there.

See all the latest Mazda reviews, news and video

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