The largest Mazda SUV can become the full-size model. The CX-9 is already 200 inches long. But, the company is going to need more power. That is why rumors about the inline-six engine drew so much attention. The 2022 Mazda CX-9 will definitely be the first model to get extra energy. Also, there is a new BT-50 truck, updated in cooperation with Isuzu. Still, we don’t think the CX-9 is going to bring a diesel engine. Mazda sticks to its SkyActiv technology.
Another big question is if the SUV is getting a hybrid engine. The new platform is needed, but the 2022 Mazda CX-9 will be the last model from the old lineup. The CX-3 already became the CX-30, and the CX-5 will soon get a zero in its badge. The CX-90 is a long shot. But, the new platform will allow engineers to add a hybrid unit and eventually use the same architecture for the EV. The electric lineup is an ultimate goal for the Japanese carmaker.
2022 Mazda CX-9 Redesign
It’s been a while since the current version of the CX-9 had a debut. Precisely, the company brought the third-gen SUV in 2016. Like always, Mazda stood out with its great design, aggressive appearance, eye-catching color and body line. The roof is sloped, which causes a lack of headroom in the third row. For now, we don’t see the 2022 Mazda CX-9 changing this approach. Designers are not going to sacrifice the cool look to provide more space inside the cockpit. The third row is suitable for children. On the other hand, first two rows are pretty comfortable. Mazda uses upscale materials and adds a lot of features to make the ride more convenient and safe. The price is a bit higher compared to rivals because of the extra equipment.
The redesign of the upcoming CX-9 comes at the right time. The market is recovering from the problems caused by coronavirus pandemic. Mazda had a few promising concepts, including CX-50. The compact crossover is entering the new generation. Its bigger sibling is also about to introduce a new version. the CX-90 is still not on the schedule. The company is thinking more about the new platform that will support future plans for drivetrain upgrades.
2022 Mazda CX-9 Inline-Six Engine, RWD Platform
While the details about the facelift are still unavailable, we can find something about the powerplants for the upcoming SUV. The current edition uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower. Thanks to the SkyActiv technology, the powerplant is pretty efficient. But, the mid-size SUV lacks power. All the rivals can provide more energy and a better driving impression to their buyers. A diesel engine is also an option and it can meet law conditions in any market. But, this is a dying class and oil burners are halfway to the history books.
Instead, Mazda is going to deliver an all-new SUV, with the architecture that supports RWD and electric powertrains. Now, the CX-9 is using either front- or all-wheel drive. The new platform will switch axles. There are a lot of pros and cons, and fans of each version will decide what is more important. What’s more, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 will get a new drivetrain. The SUV is going to keep a turbo-four setup, while the inline-six gasoline plant is an experiment. According to sources, that should be either 3.0 or 3.3-liter displacement with enhanced power and fuel economy. Also, some say the new platform will be an excellent suit for SkyActiv-D diesel units. No details about outputs are available. Still, the upcoming change will definitely make the CX-9 creating more than 300 horsepower.
Source: Cnet
Release Date
The redesign is on the schedule and the leak of details about the new powertrain might be the first sign of the SUV’s arrival. The 2022 Mazda CX-9 should be out in the second half of the year. Then, more details are going to be available. For now, fans are very happy to hear that inline-six engine is coming to improve power of the mid-size SUV. The CX-9 is 200 inches long, and 250 hp (premium fuel required) were not enough. Now, the six-pot mill will make it closer to outputs of class-leading SUVs.
The price will definitely go up a bit. Mazda is somewhere between the standard and premium waters. Base Sport trim is still going to be approachable, probably around $35,000. The 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature is going to be a luxury version, with a price tag above $50,000. We recommend a saving of $5,000 by purchasing the Grand Touring version.
I hope Mazda can get their brains in gear and intro an 8 or 10 speed tranny like all of their major competition. It’s pretty sad when a Durango with a V6 gets better gas mileage than your underpowered turbo 4 and the Durango V8 MPG is almost as good with loads of enticing power. The only thing Mazda can win on is lower price. But then, putting the turbo in there raises the engine cost higher than a V6 would be.
They made the wrong choice in 2016, they should have kept the V6 and changed the trans to an 8 or 10 speed at that time.
Look at their sales numbers since 2016.
They were sad that they were selling only 16k units so they “upgraded” to a vehicle selling 9000 units. #WINNING… Not.