PERFORMANCE-CAR NEWS 01.10.2006
Mazda Kabura ... New "3+1" Sports Car concept Sized Between Miata, RX-8

Mazda this week again underscored its reputation for small sports cars, introducing its Kabura coupe concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on Miata components, the Kabura is powered by a 2.0-liter engine, teamed with a six-speed manual transmission.

Kabura is the first project finished under the leadership of Mazda's North American Operations Design Director Franz von Holzhausen. Sizewise, Kabura slots between Mazda's MX-5 Miata and RX-8 sports cars.

Most notable about Kabura is its novel seating and door setup, an arrangement that Mazda calls "3+1." It consists of four bucket seats, with the back pair accessed with the help of a small rear door on the car's passenger side (the driver's side has only one door.)

Thus far, Mazda hasn't indicated plans for a production version of the Kabura, although the idea seems quite feasible.