Mazda reveals fresh CX-9 details

MAZDA has revealed that a new range-topping Azami variant will be the flagship of its forthcoming new-generation CX-9 series, likely pushing up beyond the current model’s ceiling of around $62,000 to become the most expensive seven-seat SUV the brand has ever sold in Australia.

With the second-generation CX-9 arriving in July, the Azami will sit above the Grand Touring (GT) which in the current line-up starts from $61,680 plus on-road costs.

While no pricing details have been divulged, Mazda has announced that there will be four CX-9 model grades – each with the choice of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive – at launch: the entry-level Sport, mid-range Touring, upper-spec GT and the new flagship Azami.

The current TB-series GT is only available with all-wheel drive, while the base Classic is restricted to two-wheel drive. The mid-range Luxury has the option of either drivetrain.

Pricing is expected to increase across the board, reflecting the advanced specification of the new TC-series SUV.

This will be the most comprehensive range in the CX-9’s eight-year history in Australia, and all will be powered by a 170kW/420Nm turbocharged version of the 2.5-litre direct-injection four-cylinder petrol engine currently on duty in some Mazda3, CX-5 and Mazda6 models.

Mazda Australia has also announced official Australian combined-cycle fuel economy ratings for the new CX-9, which consumes 8.4 litres per 100km in the front-drive variants and 8.8L/100km in AWD guise.

This is a near 25 per cent improvement over the current 204kW/367Nm 3.7-litre V6-powered models and is due in part to the inclusion of automatic engine idle-stop and i-ELOOP technology which features a capacitor-based brake energy generation system that stores energy to power the electrical system.

Both drivetrains will use a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, as per other current Mazda vehicles that employ the SkyActiv suite of powertrain and chassis components.