Mazda didn’t just announce all-wheel drive standard for 2022.
Update: A Mazda representative has confirmed that all-wheel drive will be available for 2022 model-year SUVs. This is only for the US market. Information about the new large SUV platform by Mazda will be available at a later time.
Mazda is definitely in the news. The updated 2022 CX-5 just received a subtle facelift. Mazda also announced that the CX-5 and all CX-branded SUVs would have all wheel drive as standard equipment. Mazda is also announcing a rear wheel-drive SUV for 2022.
After reading this report by Australia-based Driver, we are left with no other choice but to ask ourselves the same question. The outlet says the first of Mazda’s next-generation SUVs will arrive next year, utilizing a rear-wheel-drive-based platform versus the front-wheel-drive-based setup on current models. According to Vinesh Bhindi (managing director of Mazda Australia), the word is not from a shady source. According to the report Bhindi confirmed that the company’s first large-platform SUV would arrive in 2022. However, he didn’t specify a model. Drive speculates that it will be the CX-5 of the next generation, or the CX-50.
While it is possible for plans to differ in Australia from the ones in the United States of America, it would be very odd to release both a facelifted and next-generation model simultaneously in one year. Mazda could possibly offer the CX-50 alongside the CX-5 if CX-50 is the new SUV’s name. Mazda could also announce standard all-wheel drive for its SUVs in 2022 and a new rear wheel-drive model. We believe there is some signal-crossing going on here so we reached out to Mazda USA for clarification. When we hear back, we’ll be quick to update you.
Mazda’s next-generation SUV platform will feature a new inline six engine. Although details of the powertrain remain secret, it sounds like Mazda wants to return to its zoom-zoom roots. It remains to be determined if the CX-5 will have a sporty reputation. However, if this report is correct, we may get our first taste of it as soon as next year.