HIROSHIMA: Mazda has started production of the mid-size CX-9 SUV at its plant here.

The first units of the seven-seat SUV, which made its debut at the 2015 Los Angeles auto show, are bound for the United States and Canada. The CX-9 has been tailored for the North American market, which is expected to account for 80 percent of global sales forecast at 50,000 units annually. Sales of the new model start from North America in spring 2016.

The CX-9 is a high-end model of the new-generation line-up featuring the full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO-Soul of Motion design. It promises customers indulgent comfort that goes beyond specs and functionality.

To coincide with start of production of the new model, Mazda has begun production of a new 2.5-litre direct injection turbocharged gasoline engine called SKYACTIV-G 2.5T at its Hiroshima plant.

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