Mazda’s big news this year was the introduction of an all-new 3-row midsize SUV, the CX-90, with many traits borrowed from the luxury car classes. Mazda’s big news next year will be similar, with fewer seats.
Mazda North America CEO Tom Donnelly told Industry publication Automotive News that the company will introduce the CX-70, a new 5-seat SUV, next year. It will offer a hybrid drivetrain, Donnelly said.
In the past, Mazda has said the CX-70 will share a platform with the CX-90. That’s great news for midsize SUV shoppers. The platform is unusual for an offering from an affordable automaker. It uses a longitudinal architecture with an inline-6-cylinder engine – a layout known for smooth power and common to luxury SUVs. It’s also offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
If the CX-70 shares its bones, it almost certainly shares those traits. That should make it an intriguing alternative for affordable SUV shoppers, provided Mazda can keep the price in check.
It will likely look much like the Europe-only CX-60 pictured above.
We’ll bring more details when Mazda releases them.
