Protegé May Change Name to Mazda3 for Familial Continuity with Mazda6
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| Mazda's MX Sportif concept that debuted in Geneva earlier this month is said to be close to the next generation Protegé due out this fall. (Photo: Mazda) |
What's an MX Sportif? It just might be a close likeness of the next generation Mazda's hot selling Protegé, due to be replaced in the fall.
The concept, introduced in Geneva on Monday, March 10, shows some key design cues for the upcoming compact Mazda, expected to be produced in a hatchback (shown), 4-door sedan and sporty 5-door wagon like the popular Protegé 5.
It is likely the Japanese brand will rename its Protegé along the new family designation started with the new Mazda6, thus dubbed Mazda3. It's a tricky gamble for Mazda though, as unlike the more recently unloved 626, the Protegé has an enthusiastic and loyal following. Any change in branding could confuse the market, which could result in negative short term results.
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| The MX Sportif concept pulls design cues from the current Mazda6 sedan. |
Talking about confusion, the new Mazda will also share its basic architecture and drivetrains with the upcoming Ford Focus hatch, sedan and wagon and Volvo S40 sedan and V40 wagon. Still each model will no doubt keep its brand DNA intact inside and out making similarities imperceptible to consumers.
The new Mazda3 will stretch to a 2640 mm wheelbase, up 30 mm from the current Protegé, stated Mazda's chief designer at its Japanese advanced design studio, Hideki Suzuki.
Hideki Suzuki further confirmed that much of what is shown in the MX Sportif concept will continue into the final Mazda3 product. Its front and rear fascias, strong shoulder lines, projector-beam headlamps and high quality interior will make the final cut. Power will increase as well, up 20-hp to 150.