The Evolution of Mazda CX-50 and CX-90

Mazda

Introduction

Mazda, renowned for its innovative engineering, stylish design, and driving dynamics, has steadily expanded its SUV lineup over the past decade. Among its latest offerings, the Mazda CX-50 and CX-90 represent strategic steps into the compact and mid-size SUV markets, respectively. The CX-50 debuted in 2022 as a rugged, adventure-oriented model, while the CX-90 was introduced in 2023 as a flagship mid-size SUV aimed at premium and family-oriented consumers.

This article traces the development of the Mazda CX-50 and CX-90, including their production timelines, model variants, and trim levels, highlighting their evolution in Mazda’s global lineup.

Mazda CX-50: Introduction and Evolution

Launch and Production (2022–Present)

The Mazda CX-50 was officially introduced in November 2021 for the 2022 model year, primarily targeting North American markets. It marked a departure from Mazda’s traditional SUV offerings, emphasizing outdoor adventure readiness, rugged styling, and a more off-road-capable platform compared to the Mazda CX-5.

Production of the CX-50 commenced in 2022 at Mazda’s plant in Huntsville, Alabama, United States, aligning with Mazda’s strategy to produce more vehicles locally for North American consumers.

Model Years and Offerings

  • 2022 Mazda CX-50:
  • Launch year, with initial availability in select markets.
  • Equipped with two primary engine options:
    • 2.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine
    • 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (available in higher trims)
  • Transmission: Six-speed automatic
  • Drive configurations: Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with some trims offering off-road packages.

Trim Levels and Features

At launch, the Mazda CX-50 was offered in several trims, generally aligning with Mazda’s typical naming conventions:

  • Base Trim (e.g., “Standard” or “CX-50 2.5”):
  • Features included cloth upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights, basic infotainment system with a 7-inch display, and standard safety features.
  • Select Trim:
  • Upgraded to 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded interior materials, and additional safety and driver-assist features.
  • Preferred Trim:
  • Leather upholstery, larger 8.0-inch touchscreen display, premium audio system, and additional convenience features.
  • Turbo Premium / Premium Plus:
  • Equipped with the turbocharged engine, premium interior options, advanced safety features, and optional off-road packages.

Notable Updates (Post-2022)

Since its launch, Mazda has rolled out minor updates and package options, particularly focusing on technology enhancements, safety packages, and off-road capabilities (e.g., Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, off-road driving modes).

Mazda CX-90: Introduction and Evolution

Introduction and Production (2023–Present)

The Mazda CX-90 was announced in late 2022 as Mazda’s new flagship SUV, debuting for the 2023 model year. It signifies Mazda’s entry into the three-row, mid-size SUV segment, emphasizing luxury, performance, and advanced technology.

Production of the CX-90 began in 2023 at Mazda’s Huntsville plant, aligning with Mazda’s push for regional manufacturing to meet North American demand.

Model Years and Offerings

  • 2023 Mazda CX-90:
  • Available from launch as a 2023 model.
  • Powered by new turbocharged inline-six engines, including a plug-in hybrid variant (e-Skyactiv) for enhanced efficiency.
  • Standard all-wheel drive in most trims.
  • Focused on upscale features, luxury appointments, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Trim Levels and Features

The CX-90 was introduced with a structured trim lineup, typically including:

  • Base Trim (e.g., “CX-90 3.3” or “Preferred”):
  • Features include leather upholstery, 12.3-inch infotainment display, tri-zone climate control, and Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite.
  • Select Trim:
  • Adds larger wheels, premium audio, and additional comfort features.
  • Premium Trim:
  • Further upgrades with ventilated seats, premium interior materials, and advanced safety options.
  • Top-Tier Trims (e.g., “Turbo Premium Plus”):
  • Equipped with turbocharged inline-six, optional plug-in hybrid powertrain, panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assist features.

Powertrain Options

  • Turbocharged Inline-Six:
  • 3.3-liter turbocharged engine, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
  • Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
  • Combines inline-six turbo with electric motor, targeting eco-conscious buyers.
  • Transmission:
  • Eight-speed automatic transmission across models.
  • Drive:
  • Predominantly all-wheel drive.

Notable Features and Updates

Since its debut, Mazda has continued refining the CX-90, adding features such as enhanced infotainment options, safety packages, and optional off-road driving modes, aligning it with luxury SUV standards.

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Comparative Overview and Market Position

Design Philosophy

Both the CX-50 and CX-90 embody Mazda’s “Kodo” design language, emphasizing sleek, dynamic styling. The CX-50’s rugged aesthetic targets outdoor enthusiasts, while the CX-90’s upscale proportions and premium features position it as a family luxury SUV.

Platform and Engineering

  • CX-50:
  • Based on Mazda’s small car platform, with enhancements for off-road capability.
  • Emphasizes agility and sporty handling.
  • CX-90:
  • Built on Mazda’s large, versatile Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture.
  • Prioritizes comfort, luxury, and advanced technology.

Powertrain Strategies

  • The CX-50 offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, aligning with Mazda’s efficiency and performance goals.
  • The CX-90 introduces inline-six turbo engines and hybrid options, reflecting Mazda’s move toward electrification and higher performance standards.

Market Strategy

Mazda’s expansion with the CX-50 and CX-90 addresses different customer segments:

  • CX-50: Targets outdoor, adventure, and younger demographics seeking a rugged, stylish SUV with off-road capability.
  • CX-90: Designed for families and luxury buyers seeking a premium, technologically advanced, three-row SUV.

Future Outlook

While detailed future plans for the CX-50 and CX-90 are not fully disclosed, Mazda’s ongoing commitment to innovation suggests that these models will continue to evolve with updated powertrains, safety features, and technology enhancements. The focus on electrification, especially with the CX-90’s hybrid variants, indicates Mazda’s strategic shift toward more sustainable mobility solutions.

Conclusion

The Mazda CX-50 and CX-90 mark significant milestones in Mazda’s SUV portfolio, reflecting the brand’s dedication to blending stylish design, driving enjoyment, and advanced technology. Starting from their respective launches in 2022 (CX-50) and 2023 (CX-90), these models have grown through iterative updates, expanding trim levels and features to cater to diverse customer needs.

As Mazda continues to innovate, these SUVs are poised to play vital roles in Mazda’s global lineup, exemplifying its philosophy of “Driving Matters” with models that combine performance, comfort, and sophistication.

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