Mazda has strengthened its SUV game to the point where it currently builds no less than nine such models (with more on the way), albeit offering dedicated vehicles for various parts of the work. And the next Mazda crossover release will see the company introducing the 2024 CX-90 North American flagship in January 2023.
Some hours ago, the Japanese automaker released a teaser image for the 2024 CX-90. And while this only showcases the front fender, we get to see a vent adorned by an “Inline6” badge.
Then there’s the new Artisan Red hue, which will be reserved for models riding on the carmaker’s new large architecture. This is the company’s fourth Takuminuri special color, joining Rhodium White, Machine Grey and Soul Red.
The CX-90, which will replace the CX-9 released back in 2015, is set to become the first US-bound Mazda to feature the company’s new longitudinal-engine platform and straight-six engine (more on this below). And you can expect a pricing increase—for one, the 2023 CX-9 has an MSRP of $38,750, while the CX-9 Signature top dog kicks off at $48,460.
Spied prototypes were the base for this independent rendering
Until recently, all we had as far as the looks of the new CX-90 were spied prototypes. In fact, you’ll find one in the second video below, with the tester having been caught on camera by carparazzi KindelAuto while being driven in California.
However, thanks to digital artist Dimas Ramadhan (aka Digimods DESIGN), we can now enjoy a rendering of the 2024 CX-90, which is detailed in the first YouTube video below.
Now, once the camo comes off, the styling of the Mazda flagship SUV may be different than what we see here, but the rendering is based on spy media.
Mazda’s longitudinal engine RWD-based platform
Note that the carmaker’s Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture features a front-engine longitudinal layout and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. So that generous dash to axle ratio, which hints at a dynamic driving experience, is there for a reason.
To put it in the company’s words, the CX-90 will be “wider, longer and have more aggressive proportions than any current Mazda vehicle”.
In the U.S., the platform will serve the 2024 CX-90 three-row crossover and the 2024 CX-70 two-row model, which will bridge the gap between the former and the compact CX-50 offered since 2021. As for the European market, the equivalents for the pair of 2024 US models are the future CX-80 (three rows) and the CX-60 (two rows) that was introduced earlier this year.
The rumor mill also talks about an all-new 2024 Mazda6 mid-size sedan using the platform. This would be a fourth-generation model and while its debut was reportedly supposed to take place this year, it look like we might have to wait for 2023 to see the vehicle. However, despite its predecessors having graced North American showrooms for two decades now, it’s still unclear if the 2024 Mazda6 will make it stateside.
2024 Mazda CX-90 engine range
Returning to the 2024 Mazda CX-90, the engine range hasn’t been announced yet. However, the straight-six confirmed by the teaser will make the CX-90 the second Mazda model to feature such an engine after the CX-60.
Globally, the company’s present inline-six engine family includes a turbocharged 3.3L gas unit, a Skyactiv-X (spark-controlled compression-ignition) 3.0 litre mild hybrid and two versions of a turbodiesel 3.3L engine, one of which is a mild hybrid—obviously, you shouldn’t expect the oil burners in America.
The CX-90 should also receive a plug-in hybrid setup mixing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor sandwiched between this and the eight-speed automatic transmission, for a total output of around 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Unlike other Japanese carmakers like Honda, Nissan and Toyota, Mazda doesn’t have a luxury sub-brand. However, it will use upmarket models such as the 2024 CX-90 to battle rivals coming from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus.
