[Update: More pictures here] Mazda today took the wraps off a new concept model called the Shinari during a special press event near Milan in Italy. The Shinari is a four-door coupe style sports sedan collaboratively designed by Mazda’s styling studios in the United States, Germany and Japan. According to the Japanese firm, the sport sedan’s styling previews a future design direction for the Mazda brand.

“This design will lead to the next generation of Mazda design and will lead to other elements,” Ikuo Maeda, general manager of Mazda Motor Corp.’s design division, told reporters at the event.

According to a report from Autonews, Mazda officials pointed out that the Japanese brand is also looking to further improve interior quality of its future vehicles. “We want to play in the same group as BMW and Audi,” said Derek Jenkins, director of design for Mazda North America. “On fit and finish we want the same level of quality.”

We’re still waiting for an official press release and more photos from Mazda, so stay tuned for an update.

Source: Autonews

Photo Gallery