2023 Author: Charles Youmans | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-20 18:41
As you know, back in 2019, Mazda announced its plans to create a new longitudinal architecture that will support the installation of an in-line 6-cylinder motor with drive on the rear axle. Thus, the Japanese automaker intends to make its brand more prestigious and premium. In recent reports from the Australian media, it was said that the next generation CX-5 crossover will receive this new platform, but on the eve of Mazda officials denied this information.
Actual Mazda CX-5
According to company representatives, the assumptions of the Australian media are not true, but the company also has no plans to disclose details about the new platform and the list of cars that will receive it in the first place. Auto experts suggest that this architecture, together with the new 6-cylinder engine, will initially be applied to crossovers. The first of these SUVs is likely to be the new CX-50. The fact is that in addition to this name, the manufacturer has recently registered other trade names, among which there are CX-70 and CX-90. In addition, it is known for sure that the Mazda 6 sedan will also receive a new platform and engine, but there is still a lot of time before its debut, because at the moment not a single test prototype of this model has been seen. At the same time, the CX-50 mules have already been "caught" with a minor design change from the CX-5.
The new mechanical part of the Mazda Skyactiv-X will use an in-line 6-cylinder engine, which interacts with a 48-volt starter-generator. Rear-wheel drive will be standard for this system, but buyers will be able to order an all-wheel drive transmission as an option. It is also known that the power unit will not be installed transversely, but longitudinally, since it has a great length. It is worth recalling that Mazda is still working on a plug-in hybrid system based on an in-line 4-cylinder engine.
The new Mazda CX-50 crossover is expected to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November this year, with sales starting either in late 2022 or early 2023. Due to its more premium base, the CX-50 is likely to be slightly more expensive than the outgoing CX-5.