The Mazda Takeri Concept made its North American debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show last week. And for the first time, the Takeri Concept featured Mazda's SKYACTIV-D clean diesel powertrain, possibly a hint of what's to come. We spoke with Design Director for Mazda North America, Derek Jenkins, regarding the new KODO design language.
Speaking with Jenkins, he told us the bladed front end design on the new 2013 CX-5 crossover is just the first step in the KODO design language. The Takeri's bladed front end has a much more three-dimensional shape featuring more depth. This gives the vehicle a more aggressive look, and upmarket feel. This is all part of Mazda's new corporate face, which gives the vehicle a more aggressive, confident look.
KODO is a uniform design language that can be spread across the Mazda lineup. While it won't be cookie-cutter, it will show family resemblance throughout all future vehicles.
A lean, clean, light look is all part of KODO design according to Jenkins. Detailing, machined materials, and stance will all evolve as time goes on, but Derek really pushed proportions, as Mazda wants the KODO styling to age gracefully, and not be trendy.
The front end design also incorporates aerodynamics for better fuel economy. This plays large part in the SKYACTIV equation as Mazda will be using lightweight materials in both future powertrains, and future vehicle structures. This is in an effort to meet and exceed new CAFE regulations.
After you watch the video interview, be sure to read all about the Takeri Concept, which previews the next-generation Mazda6. Let us know what you think of Mazda's new styling direction in the comments below.
