Beginning the now-traditional drip-feed of details and images ahead of, finally, actual product launch, Mazda has released an image of its upcoming CX-8 crossover SUV.

This is its first new-generation model for sale in Japan to feature three rows of seating and is scheduled on sale before the end of this year.

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The automaker said the CX-8 would be the brand's flagship.

"It's a new kind of crossover SUV for people who both appreciate quality and need to seat more than five," Mazda said in a statement.

"It has the looks, performance and high-end feel customers expect  yet even adults can sit comfortably in the third row. Designers worked to add a new dimension of maturity to the KODO-Soul of Motion design theme, aiming for an enduring edgy look that will continue to excite customers for many years to come.

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"As the flagship SUV in the Japanese market, the focus was on creating a look of class and quality, and every interior part was chosen in careful consideration of colour and material.

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The model is 4,900mm long, 1,840mm wide and 1,730mm high on a 2,930mm wheelbase.

Powerplant is a Skyavtiv-D 2.2-litre "new-generation clean" diesel engine with Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and seating for six will also be offered.

According to just-auto's Product Lifecycle Database (PLDB), the CX-8 is an additional SUV for the Mazda range. In Japan and other relevant markets, it is also the effective replacement for a large minivan, the MPV/Mazda8. The CX-8 is sized to compete with the Toyota Kluger/Highlander, Ford Edge, Honda Pilot and others in the segment.

Mazda does not sell the (primariliy US market) CX-9 in Japan.