Ford-owned Mazda seeks a philosophy all to itself

The international management of Mazda is working on setting the brand apart from the models it shares with its Ford parent.

It sees its priorities as distinctive design, classy packaging, segment-leading handling and performance - a Mazda expression of Ford's "new edge" philosophy.

The RX-Evolv concept hints at this philosophy from a key design and packaging point of view.

Indeed Mazda says this "makes the RX-Evolv a truly practical four-seater sports car that breaks the mould of design in terms of passenger capcacity."

But it has yet to actually identify a model that falls under its design and packaging target.

It might say that its new lifestyle 2.0- and 3.0-litre four-wheel-drive Tribute - to be launched in New Zealand early next year - comes close.

Mazda is likely to unveil an alternative-fuel concept model next year, along the lines of the Toyota Prius. It has admitted "falling behind" in development of such models.