Mazda's new compact SUV 19 | 01 | 2011

MAZDA HAS released the first official images of its baby compact SUV, the Minagi. It's expected the car will go into full production and be badged CX-5 when it enters Mazda's Scottish dealership network.

While the concept utilises Mazda's latest design language, the rear-end displays hints of Hyundai's iX35. The Minagi, which is set to be unveiled officially at the Geneva Motor Show in March, is the first SUV to be produced under the direction of Mazda's latest design director, Ikeo Maeda.

When it enters full production, the CX-5 will give Mazda a genuine rival for the VW Tiguan and Audi Q5. And while the model will obviously be important for the UK and European market, of bigger interest will be how it delivers in the SUV-loving US, where the Audi Q5 in particular is proving a hit.

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Jim McGill