The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is new, and oh so very red

What we didn't know, though, is that the CX-5 would look like a miniature version of the CX-9.

From the outside it's obvious the design is all new, and not just because of the stunning Soul Red Crystal paint. The front of the SUV looks nearly identical to that of the CX-9's. Gone is the cutesy, roundish face in favor of a more angular theme. The headlights are slimmer, while the grille ditches the horizontal bars for a mesh pattern. Mazda calls the design theme Kodo - soul of motion, and the original 2013 CX-5 was the first production model under this mantra.

The changes at the back are less drastic than the CX-5's new beak. The black trim that underlines the rear fascia is less prominent and the taillights looks leaner, but it's harder to tell the differences between the old and new model.

Mazda say the CX-5 will come with three available engine: the Skyactiv 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter gasoline engines and the Skyactiv-D 2.2-liter diesel. We don't have specifics on power an torque yet, but in the old CX-5 (and current Mazda 3) the 2.0-liter engine puts out 155 horsepower, while the 2.5-liter four-cylinder generated 184 horsepower. We expect for front- and all-wheel-drive option, and of course we're hoping that the six-speed manual (previously on the base, front-drive model only) stays around as an alternative to the six-speed automatic.

The interior follows the template of recent Mazdas with the infotainment screen sitting on top of the dashboard instead with a control knob located aft of the shift lever. We'll have more information on the 2017 CX-5 at the vehicle's debut later today at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show.