Big diesels in Mazda SA’s future?

Mazda customers who have been waiting forever to trade that CX-7 for something new could find a solution from the Japanese brand in 2022.

As Mazda expands its CX range, the new variants are being evaluated for local introduction. That means there is potential for CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90 to become available to South African buyers.

The world has changed a lot since CX-7 was discontinued locally. In some ways, it was a pioneering product – a large crossover before larger crossovers were popular. Right vehicle, wrong time.

With solid demand for Mazda’s CX-30 and CX-5 among South African crossover buyers, the promise of even larger vehicles could serve a purpose.

The growing CX range will be split into narrow and wide-body derivatives. Aware of the challenges in navigating ancient city and village infrastructure, Mazda’s CX-60 and CX-80 are designed for European markets.

The CX-70 and CX-90, are wide-body versions suitable for markets with generously sized roads and ample parking. Like South Africa.

The CX-60/70 are two-row crossovers, while the CX-80/90 offers three rows of seating – similar in cabin concept, to a Hyundai Palisade.

Mazda six-cylinder diesel

Engine options are interesting, too. Expect Mazda’s latest mild-hybrid technology and a new in-line six-cylinder turbodiesel engine.

Although it resisted the demand for diesel engines for many years, Mazda’s 2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesels have proven powerful and reliable. Developing and deploying a six-cylinder turbodiesel could give the brand a significantly increased performance offering for South African customers.

A powerful turbodiesel diesel offering and three-row seating configuration would make any of the large CX-series vehicles very neatly aligned with local customer preferences.

CX-80 or CX-90 would make suitable spiritual replacements for CX-7.

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