Mazda Motor has started production of the redesigned 2017 CX-5 crossover SUV at its Ujina Plant No. 2 near the company's global headquarters in Hiroshima.
The model will go on sale in Japan in February followed by export markets.
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The original CX-5, production of which began in November 2011, introduced a new generation of models with the full range of Skyactiv technology and Kodo design.
Cumulative production reached 1m units in April 2015, making it the second fastest Mazda to reach the million-unit milestone after the 3 (Axela in Japan). Total production reached approximately 1.57m units by the end of October 2016.
"With global sales increasing every year since launch, the CX-5 has grown into a core model that accounts for about a quarter of Mazda's annual sales volume," the automaker said.
Mazda said recently it will offer the 2017 CX-5 in North America with the Skyactiv-D 2.2 diesel engine. It will be the automaker's first diesel engine model in North America.
The automaker claims the engine will meet the region's strict emission standards and make the new SUV one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.
The engine has Natural Sound Smoother and Natural Sound Frequency Control, proprietary technologies that reduce diesel knock sound.
"We're confident this engine offers a smart new option for North American drivers who want both performance and fuel economy," said Akira Marumoto, Mazda's executive vice president and representative director.
