Mazda has revealed the first glimpse of its new design language: the Shinari concept, which has its motor show debut at the LA motor show later today.
The Japanese manufacturer first wheeled out the four-door coupe show car at a design event in Milan back in August, but chose not to bring it to September's Paris motor show.
See the pics of the new Mazda Shinari - now updated with LA show pics
The new design language is called Kodo, which means 'soul of motion' in Japanese. It's designed to replace the nature-influenced Nagare language.
The firm's global design chief, Ikeo Maeda, told journalists at the Milan event that the car "will lead to the next generation of Mazda design".
Read Hilton Holloway's blog about Mazda's future
The future of the Shinari concept is less clear. It could be a close preview of the next-generation Mazda 6, test mules of which were unveiled at last week's Mazda engineering showcase.
Alternatively, a modified version of the Shinari could become an indirect successor to the RX-8, which has become a victim of Euro5 emissions regulations.
The Shinari's key styling cues include a prominent, gaping-mouth grille that does away with Nagare's 'smiling face', ultra-slim headlights and an Aston Martin-esque side vent just behind the front wheels. Inside, the concept is a strict four-seater.See all the latest reviews, news and video
