2024 Mazda CX-90 to Debut in January, Here’s What We Know
Just over a year ago, Mazda announced five future SUVs and crossovers including three for North America. The compact CX-50 is already on the road and will be followed next year by a pair of midsize models: the two-row CX-70 and three-row CX-90.
The latter will come first and replace the CX-9 as a new addition to the 2024 lineup. The world premiere is scheduled for January (the exact date has yet to be specified) and the company today gave us a small teaser.
- Also: 2022 Mazda CX-9: Is the New CX-90 Coming Yet?
- Also: Mazda Announces 5 New SUVs, 3 Headed to Canada
The picture focuses on the front fender and shows an all-new premium paint option called Artisan Red. Mazda describes it as a “sophisticated, yet deeply saturated colour” that’s been specifically developed to convey high performance and world-class refinement in vehicles built on its upcoming large platform. Will the signature Soul Red Crystal return? Time will tell.
As indicated by the fender insert, a new inline six-cylinder engine lies under the hood of the Mazda CX-90, marking a big change from the CX-9’s four-cylinder. Previous reports have confirmed it will be turbocharged and mounted longitudinally, with power controlled by an enhanced version of i-ACTIV all-wheel drive. Also, look for 48V mild hybrid tech and a new eight-speed automatic transmission to be part of the equation as fuel-saving additions.
The CX-90 will offer a second powertrain option, namely a plug-in hybrid that combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder (187 hp) with an electric motor (100 kW) and a 17.8kWh high-voltage battery. In the similarly equipped CX-60 PHEV sold in Europe, which we had the opportunity of reviewing at the end of the summer, this combination delivers 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque—more than any other Mazda SUV. Specs could be slightly different on our side of the Atlantic, mind you.
Physically, the new Mazda flagship will be longer and wider than the outgoing CX-9. The aforementioned large platform is designed to deliver ultra-high rigidity and excellent driving dynamics in keeping with the brand’s core values. As for the interior, we’re hoping for serious improvements in the infotainment area, but the more realistic scenario is likely a copy-paste of the CX-50. In this model, the centre display’s touchscreen capability only works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a shame.
The Car Guide will have all the details about the 2024 Mazda CX-90 as well as a bunch of pictures following its global debut in January, so stay in touch.