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Mazda is planning for its future with a new multi-purpose platform that's being designed to underpin the majority of vehicles in its lineup. According to a report by AutoCar, the new spaceframe will be adaptable in order to accommodate new versions of anything from the Mazda3 to Mazda6 to CX-7. There are even suggestions it could be used for the next Mazda2 sub-compact.
The new platform could be used for as many as 800,000 vehicles in a 1.2 million vehicle company.
Mazda's plan is to find efficiencies as it has become clear that Ford's decreased involvement in the Japanese automaker means it will need to fend for itself instead of relying on donor-platforms.
In addition to the new platform, Mazda is also reportedly working on an "advanced" (dual-clutch?) six-speed automatic transmission and two new Sky diesel engines. There's also talk of a new four-cylinder gasoline engine with a super-high 14:1 compression ratio and 4-2-1 exhaust manifold.
The new engines are reportedly already meeting the upcoming Euro6 emissions regulations and Mazda plans that they will be competitive for up to a decade.
More: Mazda Planning New Multi-Purpose Platform to Underpin Most Future Models on AutoGuide.com
