Mazda 3, Mazda 6 get customized for the SEMA Show

We like the look of Mazda's current lineup, from the basic 2 to the sleek 6. Kodo design language has a lot to do with it -- Mazda North American Operations design director Derek Jenkins says that, thanks that Kodo styling, "the Zoom-Zoom genetic code is further being embraced, not buried, through increasingly expressive vehicle design." (Ugh.-ED) We didn't know genetics had anything to do with it, but hey -- tough to argue with the results. Perhaps Kodo's effectiveness is why Mazda's SEMA show concepts are fairly...restrained compared to what other automakers are bringing to Las Vegas.

Hyundai Concept Genesis Coupe

Korea's largest automaker is poised to unveil the Concept Genesis Coupe at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show next week. Though these sketches are admittedly exaggerated, the coupe uses the concept Genesis sedan, unveiled it the 2007 New York International Auto Show in April, as the basis for the structure. According to our sources, the sporting coupe concept hints at the forthcoming design direction for a future rear-wheel drive sports coupe from Hyundai called the BK, a luxurious sport coupe specifically for North American market.

Mazda design chief Ikuo Maeda brings new meaning to zoom-zoom

Ikuo Maeda, the new design chief at Mazda Motor Corp., earned the nickname "Speedy" for his lead-footed driving on the race course and off. He may be the only standing auto executive to have had his license revoked--twice. It's only natural then that Maeda, who took the design reins last April, views himself as the rightful guardian of Mazda's zoom-zoom brand heritage.