- mazda says that recent reports stating that the next cx-5 crossover will use its new longitudinal architecture and inline-six engine are not true. we think it will instead be replaced by a new model called cx-50.
- the new architecture will also likely be used for the cx-9 three-row suv, which could change its name to cx-90, and a new 6 sedan.
- this new crossover should debut soon, and it could go on sale in the u.s. as early as next year.
mazda announced plans for a new longitudinal architecture in 2019 that will support an inline-six engine and rear-wheel drive in a push to make the japanese automaker more of a premium brand. recent reports from australia stated that mazda confirmed that the next-generation cx-5 crossover would get this platform with a six-cylinder engine, but mazda told car and driver that's not the case. we think that the new six-cylinder–powered crossover will instead be a new model called the cx-50.
"the recent disclosure of the mazda cx-5’s future platform and powertrain coming from australia is not correct," mazda said in a statement provided to c/d. the japanese automaker told us that it is not yet ready to confirm which future vehicles will use its all-new large platform, but we expect the first models to be suvs. mazda filed trademarks for the names cx-50, cx-70, and cx-90 in the u.s., which could refer to these new inline-six–powered suvs. mazda is also expected to relaunch a new version of the 6 sedan with the new underpinnings, even though the 6 was recently discontinued in the u.s. in its current form.
prototypes of a what appear to be a new mazda crossover have been seen testing. youtube channel tflnow posted a video featuring images sent in by a viewer that they claim is a camouflaged prototype of a possible cx-5 replacement. the photos show a subtle redesign compared with the current cx-5 including a new grille and larger wheels.
mazda's skyactiv-x powertrain will use an inline-six engine in conjunction with a 48-volt hybrid system (pictured left). rear-wheel drive will be standard with all-wheel drive optional. the engine will be longitudinally mounted compared to the current four-cylinder offerings' transverse arrangements. mazda says that it is also working on a plug-in-hybrid powertrain (pictured center) that uses an inline-four gasoline engine, which could also make its way into these new models.
look for more news on the mazda cx-50 in the coming months, as the new model could make its debut as soon as the end of this year or early next year. australian site wheels reports that the cx-50 will debut at the los angeles auto show in november 2021 and go on sale for the 2023 model year.
because of its new premium milieu, the cx-50 will likely start a few thousand dollars higher the current cx-5's $26,545 starting price. it's also possible that mazda will keep the existing cx-5 around even after the cx-50 arrives, as the company did with the smaller cx-3 and its replacement, the cx-30.