This supplied photo shows Mazda Motor Corp.'s remodeled CX-5 sport utility vehicle. (Kyodo)

       TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Mazda Motor Corp. began accepting reservations for its mainstay CX-5 sport utility vehicle following a major facelift aimed at maintaining steady sales.

       The remodeled CX-5 will go on sale in Japan in early December with suggested retail prices ranging from 2,678,500 yen ($23,000) to 4,075,500 yen. The Japanese automaker did not disclose a sales target.

       The changes include a revamped shock-absorbing structure to reduce driver fatigue and a redesigned cargo area that will make it easier to load and remove luggage, it said.

       The vehicles will be available in two special models -- Field Journey, using waterproof materials in the cargo area, and Sports Appearance, with black interior and exterior accents.

       The CX-5 is Mazda's core model, accounting for 29 percent of its global sales in 2020. The upgraded SUV will be launched in the United States this winter and in Europe early next year.

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