Mazda CX-90 debuts as brand’s new flagship model

After being teased for months, the day has finally come when we can feast our eyes on the all-new Mazda CX-90.

The seven-seat SUV was being hyped up as if it were a revolution for the Japanese carmaker, and it somewhat is considering its the brand’s most powerful model yet.

By far one of the CX-90’s biggest talking points is its rear-wheel drive-oriented powertrain (with all-wheel drive also available) which features Mazda’s new inline six-cylinder and optional plug-in hybrid.

The model has also been confirmed for New Zealand which we expect to arrive sometime later this year but we don’t yet know if the PHEV variant will go on sale locally.

When it does hit the showroom floor though, Kiwis will be greeted with Mazda’s most powerful engine ever put into a production car.

Said motor is a longitudinally-mounted turbocharged 3.3-litre inline six-cylinder produces 254kW and 500Nm of torque which sends its power to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

It also features a 48V mild hybrid system, helping the SUV increase efficiency without compromising on performance.

The CX-90 has also been given Kinematic Posture Control, a system which helps reduce body roll while cornering, which was first introduced on the MX-5.

As for the design, the flagship model’s new large platform underpinnings give it a wide body alongside a long wheelbase to maximise space inside.

Its bodylines and curves can be shown off in a variety of paint colours, including the new Artisan Red Premium option, which are each complemented by chrome trim and new 21-inch diamond-cut wheels.

The interior features Nappa leather clad seats on all three rows, wood finishes, and fabric on the dashboard.

A 12.3-inch central infotainment display comes fitted to the flagship model alongside another 12.3-inch digital display for the driver.

Physical buttons for the air conditioning controls and more adjoin other in-car tech like wireless Apple CarPlay (Android Auto TBC), third-row USB-C charging ports, and upgraded lighting.

A suite of active safety features also make their way onto the model including blind spot monitoring, radar cruise control, and brake support among others.

More information regarding pricing and availability will be released closer to the release of the Mazda CX-90 later this year.