2005 Mazda MX-Crossport Concept

Although the concept will no doubt feature some sort of all-wheel drive system, the Crossport was designed as a road-biased

While it will no doubt feature some sort of all-wheel drive system, the Crossport was designed as a road-biased vehicle. (Photo: Mazda Canada)

vehicle with low ground clearance, making it possible to give the car a squat and sturdy stance. The sporty appearance of the body is furthered by a long 2,795 mm (110.0 in) wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, and the design's large metal-to-glass ratio.

The concept's body is finished in K2 Red Metallic, a colour that reflects the famous red earth of Utah's Monument Valley.

Like the exterior, the interior of the MX-Crossport was also developed around the same concept as the RX-8, so it is not surprising that many key details are shared. The new concept is also a strict four-seater with two pairs of bucket seats, trimmed in semi-aniline leather and black mesh.

Despite its small exterior dimensions, Mazda worked around the problem of a small interior by utilizing a floating seat

The MX-Crossport can be considered a compact sport ute, but is still large enough to fit the needs of a small family. (Photo: Mazda Canada)

system to free up under-seat space for greater leg and knee room. Each seat is attached via a single post to a center mounting point, aptly named the 'monorail' system, which makes them appear to float.

From the driver's seat, it's easy to see that the MX-Crossport was designed like a sports car, with driver-focused pod-style instrumentation and an intuitive three-spoke steering wheel. The center console and information systems of the Crossport are organized via a series of three display screens.