Mazda Hakaze Extends Nagare

GENEVA — Nagare and zoom-zoom are both catch phrases that Mazda uses to describe its evolving design language, evident in a series of unusual show cars, including the new Hakaze concept that will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Mazda says nagare is Japanese for "flow." It is the central theme that unites such recent Mazda concepts as the Nagare (Los Angeles) and the Ryuga (Detroit). The latest expression is the Hakaze, a creation from the company's European Design Center in Frankfurt.

Mazda describes the Hakaze as a "compact crossover coupe." About the size of the Mazda 3 hatchback, the Hakaze features a removable roof, lots of glass, a high seating position and a highly functional cabin. By removing the rear roof section and lowering the frameless windows, the vehicle can be converted into a four-passenger coupe, riding on 20-inch wheels and tires.

The Hakaze has two large pop-up doors that are activated by a remote keyless control. Inside are four bucket seats and a steering wheel with a fixed center; only the rim and the lower arm rotate. The floor of the cockpit is made of soft natural leather.

The vehicle is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter direct-injection gas engine, sending power to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

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