Detroit Auto Show: Mazda Ryuga Concept

Following the Nagare concept which was presented at the LA Show, Mazda premiered the Ryuga Concept (pronounced “ree-yoo-ga,” Japanese for gracious flow) at the Detroit show. According to the Japanese car maker the Ryuga (jeez where do they come up with these names!) is more realistic than Nagare and therefore more useful in gauging reactions from those who see it. Here are some key exterior features of the Ryuga that Mazda wants us to watch out for:-Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the press release and a high-res gallery

Ryuga’s side surfaces were inspired by karesansui (Japanese dry gardens). The carefully raked pebbles in these garden’s represent peaceful ripples caused by a breeze over a pool of water. The karesansui’s man-made image of natural flow is represented in the Ryuga’s surface texture to express simplicity and refinement.
The headlamp shape resembles the flow of morning dew dropping from bamboo leaves. Advanced LED and fluorescent tube technology will enable such a striking design to be used on a production vehicle in the foreseeable future.
To impart motion, the 21-inch wheel spokes – different on the left and right sides – are slightly twisted as if they’re delivering torque. To convey the feeling of gas turbine blades, the trailing edges of the wheel spokes are accented with a tinge of body color.
Flowing lava inspired both Ryuga’s exterior hue and the tail lamp design. Depending on the incident light, Ryuga’s surface appears to be shades of yellow, red, and blue, exactly like molten, flowing lava. Notes van den Acker: “The hot red finish goes straight to your heart.”
The roof molding tightens up the flowing cabin and gives an accent to the body styling as well. Cameras located at the forward end of each molding convey rear views to a center cockpit display screen. Turn signals are also integrated into these protruding accents.

Mazda Ryuga Specifications

Dimensions	Length	1,280 mm/168.5 “
	Width	1,900 mm/74.8”
	Height	1,260 mm/49.6”
	Wheelbase	2,800 mm110.2”
Engine	Type	MZR 2.5L E85/Gasoline FLEX FUEL
Transmission	Type	6 -speed AT
Drive		F WD
Tires	Tire s (Front/Rear)	245/35 R21 93W TOYO PROXES