With a little Skyactiv this, and Kodo that, Mazda has been evolving the brand for a new era, and a new generation of buyers. The 2013 CX-5 has kindled Mazda’s new passion—efficiency. However questions remained as to how the automaker would move ahead with its other CUVs. Fearing cannibalization and competition with the very good CX-5, Mazda axed the CX-7 midsize crossover. What then of the CX-9? We’ve finally got some answers.
Mazda will officially unveil the 2013 Mazda CX-9 at the Australian International Motor Show a month from now, but the automaker has released images that show the newer Kodo design language has made its way to Mazda’s family hauler. The larger model has a lot more sheet metal and is not as dynamic as the CX-5 aesthetically, but it does look sharper. Mazda is also gently phasing out the smiling puppy, and has given the 2013 CX-9 the newer five point grille and bolder fog-light housings.
Mazda says the same 3.7-liter V-6 engine will power the new CX-9, as will a standard six-speed automatic transmission. It appears the Skyactiv elements will be put on hold for the time being, possibly debuting on the 2014 model. Front-wheel-drive will likely be standard with available all-wheel-drive models. We expect more details to emerge closer to the official unveil in Sydney.
Source: Mazda
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