Mazda Motor (TYO:7261) launched its latest flagship SUV in Japan on Thursday, aiming to drive global sales growth despite rising Chinese competition and shifting EV regulations, Nikkei Asia reported on Thursday, citing President and CEO Masahiro Moro.

At a Tokyo press conference, Moro described the third-generation CX-5 as a high-value SUV and one of the brand's most confident products, marking the first full redesign since 2017, the news agency said.

The model is the first Mazda vehicle to feature Google's in-car services, including voice-controlled AI assistant and Google Maps, alongside ride and interior improvements, the publication said.

The launch also serves as an experimental step to streamline vehicle development under Mazda's ongoing collaboration with Nippon Steel (TYO:5401), the report said.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)