Mazda’s Major Midsize CX SUV Overhaul Reportedly Delayed Until 2028

• Mazda’s major CX SUV overhaul may not happen until 2028.

• European CX-60 and CX-80 updates improve ride comfort, refinement and parking assistance.

• Mazda’s Skyactiv-Z hybrid powertrain could eventually reach additional CX models, other than the planned CX-5.

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Mazda’s planned overhaul of its larger CX utility vehicles may not reach showrooms until 2028. The company was reportedly preparing substantial design, cabin and powertrain revisions perhaps as early as next year; however, they’ve apparently been pushed back.

Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro previously described the planned changes as “unprecedented”, when we covered the story on September first.  The revisions follow concerns about the sales performance of Mazda’s larger SUVs in North America, where the company competes against a huge gathering of midsize two- and three-row SUVs.

Japanese publication Creative Trend indicates that Mazda will introduce smaller updates during 2027 while continuing development on the larger program. The more extensive revisions would then follow in 2028. Mazda has not officially confirmed that timeline.

Mazda has not provided a firm launch schedule or detailed which North American vehicles will receive the updates. Its Large Product Group currently underpins several longitudinal-engine SUVs, including the CX-60 and CX-80 sold overseas and the North American CX-70 and CX-90.

In Europe, updated versions of the CX-60 and three-row CX-80, already available, provide an early indication of Mazda’s near-term approach. The revisions concentrate on refinement, appearance and convenience rather than major mechanical changes.

Both SUVs get dark-finished exterior emblems and trim elements. Mazda has also added new paint selections and made tan interior upholstery available on seven-seat configurations.

Mechanical revisions include redesigned rear suspension crossmember bushings to improve ride comfort. Additional sound-insulating materials in the engine compartment and cabin reduce NHV entering the passenger area.

The eventual CX overhaul is expected to reach well beyond these incremental improvements. Mazda reportedly plans substantial changes to exterior styling, interior design and powertrains, although specifications remain unavailable.

One possible component is Mazda’s Skyactiv-Z hybrid powertrain, which is still under development. The new powertrain features next-generation combustion-engine technology designed to improve efficiency while complying with stricter emissions regulations and is highly anticipated.

The next-generation CX-5 is expected to become the first Mazda equipped with the new hybrid system. Mazda plans to introduce it in late 2027, which could mean related powertrain technology reaches the other CX models in 2028.

Source: Creative Trend