Mazda has finally taken the wraps off its new North American-focused SUV, the 2024 CX-90. Powered by the most powerful gasoline engine ever built by the automaker, as well as a nearly-as-powerful plug-in hybrid drivetrain, and featuring plenty of Japanese style, the new SUV is going after the premium segment’s heavy hitters.
As the brand revealed previously, the engine options will start with a 3.3-liter, turbocharged, mild-hybrid inline-six-cylinder engine that makes 340 hp (254 kW/345 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm)of torque. Although it’s just a mild-hybrid unit, and electric motor is placed between the engine and the torque-converterless eight-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to move the vehicle off the line, which Mazda says gives the CX-90 an upscale feeling and a smooth driving experience.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain, meanwhile, is based on a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine that has a tuned intake to improve peak torque. It has been adapted to work with an electric motor whose power is supplied by a 17.8 kWh battery. All-electric range, charging times, and other details have yet to be disclosed, but Mazda has, at least, revealed that the driveline will make 323 hp (241 kW/327 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque in the CX-90. It will also be connected to Mazda’s eight-speed automatic transmission, which it says has been designed specifically for electrified vehicles on its large platform, providing smooth acceleration and improved efficiency.
Read: 2024 Mazda CX-90 Incorporates New Red Color, Japanese Book-Binding Techniques Into Design
No matter which engine buyers choose, Mazda says that the CX-90 has been designed to send the majority of its longitudinally mounted engine’s power to the rear wheels. Featuring Kinematic Posture Control, handling tech first developed for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the new SUV will handle more like a car than a three-row SUV.
In fact, beyond the fancy tech, the automaker said it optimized the platform for rigidity, and even fine-tuned the seats and the suspension for better balance and control. As an SUV, though, it will still get all-wheel drive.
Inside, Mazda has equipped the large SUV with a large, 12.3-inch center display, as well a “See-Though View” monitor to assist during parking. USB-C ports, meanwhile, will be offered to all passengers, including those in the third row.
From a design point of view, Mazda says it has leaned into its Japanese history, filling the interior with leather, wood, and fabrics that are designed to work together harmoniously. That same philosophy has been employed for the exterior, too.
The body has been designed to feature elegant curves and few harsh edges, so that its features appear to change depending on the angle of the light. Those body panels will be highlighted by a new dark crimson shade called Artisan Red. It will play against available 21-inch diamond-cut wheels with a black metallic finish to complement the SUV’s styling.
More information on range, fuel-economy, and pricing are expected to arrive closer to the 2024 Mazda CX-90’s start of production. The new vehicle, designed specifically for the North American market, is expected to start being shipped out to dealers this spring.
