A while back, we talked about how Mazda is in the process of reinventing itself. The Japanese carmaker shared, on its official newsroom that three new SUV models are coming out by 2023 and that the expansion of its lineup will be accompanied by upgraded dealer facilities. Mazda’s transition to a more upscale image has never been more apparent and we are going to see the first models with longitudinally-mounted inline-six engines debut as early as 2022.

As Kirk Kreifels mentioned in his YouTube video, “the only time when you upgrade the dealer, is when it no longer matches your brand identity”. The first of the new batch of luxury Mazda SUVs will be the CX-50, which was introduced in November and will be on sale from January 2022. The new SUV will share a platform with “Mazda’s latest generation products, CX-30 and Mazda 3”.

Mazda promises that the new SUV lineup will feature “enhanced all-wheel-drive capabilities and functionality for consumers with outdoor active lifestyles”. As for the CX-50, it is possible that it will replace the recently-revised CX-5, in the near future. Similar to how the CX-30 is replacing the CX-3 after being on sale simultaneously for about two years, the same thing is expected to happen with the CX-5 and CX-50.

Some of Mazda’s recent patent filings include names like “Pro-Xross style” and “Field Journey”. These may hint at certain trim levels, equipment packages, or a more off-road-oriented version, similar to the Subaru Wilderness. The upcoming Mazda CX-50 will be built in Mazda-Toyota’s joint venture factory, in Huntsville, Alabama.

The CX-50 will be followed by four other models, but only two of them will be for the US market. First to arrive will be the CX-90, which will be a three-row SUV, followed by the smaller CX-70. Both will be based on Mazda’s all-new large platform, with a rear-wheel-drive layout with all-wheel drive capabilities, as standard. We also know that the US-intended CX-70 and CX-90 will be a bit wider in terms of interior space, compared to the CX-60 and CX-80 that will be offered in Japan, Europe, and other markets.

The Mazda CX-90 will pick up the torch from the outgoing CX-9 and just like in the CX-70, “the proportions will be optimized for US consumers with expanded interior cabin and cargo space”. As for the CX-70, it’s shaping up to be a rival to the likes of the Lexus RX, Genesis GV70, or BMW X3/X4, especially considering the fact, new Mazda models will come with a rear-wheel-drive-biased platform, potent inline-six units, and PHEV offerings.

Engine-wise, the base engine is expected to be the 2.0-liter SkyActive X with a power output of around 188 horsepower and 177 pound-feet (240 Nm). A version of this engine already works inside the Mazda CX-30 and it could be the base engine for the CX-50. The same engine is expected to be the basis for a PHEV powertrain with an expected power output of around 280 horsepower and 270 pound-feet (366 Nm).

The base version will make around 282 horsepower and 265 pound-feet (360 Nm), thanks to a lean supercharger, which is used to lean out the air-fuel mixture, improving fuel economy. This is expected to be the base engine for the CX-90 and we’ll probably see it on the CX-50 and CX-70 as well.

The next version of the 3.0-liter inline-six is expected to make at least 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm), which would translate into a crazy horsepower-to-torque ratio, similar to that of a diesel powerplant.

Mazda also has patents on a twin-charged (supercharged and turbocharged) powerplant that’s also based on the 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Predicted power figures are in the ball-park of 474 horsepower and 442 pound-feet (600 Nm), but sadly, we won’t be getting that anytime soon.

The diesel option is not expected to arrive in the US. That one is expected to feature a 3.0-liter SkyActive D, inline-six, turbodiesel with 260 horsepower and 450 pound-feet (610 Nm). All engines are expected to work with an eight-speed automatic, which is expected to be the one used in current Toyota models.

Mazda has never been more serious about changing its image. While it may seem like it’s a bit late to the party, with brands like Genesis already being formidable players in the luxury segment, their upcoming models sound like they’ll give even established luxury manufacturers a run for their money, especially if the price is right. The Toyota connection will definitely help boost the brand’s credentials in the segment, as they are already a well-established player there. We personally can’t wait for the new Mazda 6 and the eventual arrival of the next Mazda sports car.

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