Mazda will introduce three new SUVs by 2023, make all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on its existing SUVs, and introduce a new 6-cylinder engine across much of its lineup.
An Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
News of the new engine may only excite car enthusiasts. But its presence explains something about Mazda, so allow us to explain:
The new engine is an inline 6-cylinder model. Though the idea dates back more than 100 years, “straight six” engines are relatively rare in today’s market. They’re sporty engines. BMW and Mercedes-Benz still favor them for many of their cars because these types of engines are famously smooth and minimize vibration. Most manufacturers have moved to a V6 configuration because it can fit into a more compact space.
But Mazda increasingly positions itself as the driving enthusiast’s choice among mainstream brands. Moving to straight sixes instead of V6 engines should help the company build even more responsive, athletic cars. It makes sense as part of Mazda’s plan to differentiate itself from Toyota and Honda, and it may help make the new Mazdas excellent choices for those who prioritize performance when they shop.
CX-50
The smallest of the new SUVs will be the CX-50. It rides on the same platform as the CX-30 and Mazda3 and won’t get the 6-cylinder option. It will, however, come standard with the i-Activ AWD system. Mazda will show the car off in November, so we’ll bring more details soon.
The arrival of the CX-50 doesn’t mean the recently revamped CX-5 will disappear.
CX-70, CX-90
Two larger SUVs will ride on an all-new large platform designed to carry that inline-6. Mazda hasn’t said whether they’ll compete as midsize or large SUVs, but does say that “The proportions of both vehicles will be optimized for U.S. consumers with expanded interior cabin and cargo spaces.”
The CX-70 will be a 2-row model. The CX-90, which arrives first, will have three rows of seating. Both will be offered with the 6-cylinder engine or a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The existing CX-9 will be phased out, though the company hasn’t specified a date it will stop building that vehicle.
Standard AWD for Entire CX Lineup
Meanwhile, the company says it will make the i-Activ AWD system “standard across its CX lineup, starting with the 2022 model year.” The move “supports the brand’s dedication to deliver unparalleled driving pleasure for all owners” and should simplify shopping for buyers who no longer have to decide whether to pay extra for the added grip of AWD.
