Mazda presents its Kabura Concept design at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. The Kabura design builds upon the compact sports coupe tradition, incorporating new ideas which may form the basis for Mazda production models to come.
In an attempt to deliver the quintessential sports car, Mazda have endowed the Kabura with a front-engined, rear-drive layout – a setup admired by enthusiasts of the marque’s MX-5 model.
The Kabura Concept is based on a number of MX-5 chassis components, although its specifications place it firmly between the MX-5 and the RX-8.
Exterior design
The profile of the Kabura resembles the classic coupe shape, with the windscreen and front section of the roof integrated into a single glass surface, extending from the B-pillar to the cowl. The extra light admitted by such a design adds weight to the interior’s feeling of space and airiness. The overhead sections of the glass unit are equipped with adjustable tint, allowing the driver, at the turn of a knob, to change the translucency of the roof from clear to entirely opaque.
Behind the B-pillar lies a two-piece hatch made from glass. At the touch of a button, an electric motor lifts the upper panel, rather like the movement of the panels on the wing of an airplane. This innovative design has three benefits: it plays the role of a roof spoiler, acts as a vent for interior air, and gives the passenger considerably more headroom. The panel also houses a solar cell component which aids interior climate control and charges the battery. The larger of the two glass panels features lateral hinges allowing for easy access to the Kabura’s generous storage compartment.
Interior innovation
Upon entering the Kabura Concept, the driver is immediately faced with an unconventional, asymmetrical configuration. The driver’s side features a standard door, allowing access to the cockpit and jump seat at the rear. To the passenger side, however, the traditional glove box has been removed and instruments minimised. The result is that the passenger seat resides a full six inches in front of the driver’s seat, giving spacious leg, shoulder and head room to the rear passenger.
In order to maintain the roofline’s sleek image despite the interior’s asymmetry, and to provide rear access which puts other compact coupes to shame, the Kabura design team, lead by von Holzhausen, have equipped the concept with a bonus driver’s side door. Once the main door has been opened, the touch of a button will see the second door slide to the rear.
Kabura: What’s in a name?
Mazda took the inspiration for the name of their latest model from the Japanese term “Kabura-ya”, a type of arrow which makes a loud whistling sound when airborne, and was historically deployed to mark the beginning of a battle. In choosing such a moniker, Mazda hope to evoke their spirit of pursuit and adventure, seen in such innovations as the famous rotary engine.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Karl C for www.sport-cars.org
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