Mazda unveils the CX-90 SUV in the United States

Following the premiere of the rather compact CX-60, Mazda has revealed its new flagship – the CX-90, a three-row big SUV designed specifically for the USA with the Japanese marque’s most powerful engine on record.

Both the CX-60 and the CX-90 use the same underlying architecture with per-wheel suspension and RWD, although the CX-90 has a coupling at the front axle already included in the base spec. The main engine is a 3.3-liter e-Skyactiv G, but you can opt for a hybrid spec based on a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter mill. The combined output peaks at 327 PS (323 hp / 241 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The battery stores 17.8 kWh of electricity, but the ranges remain to be revealed.

The only gearbox available is eight-speed automatic. There is no hydraulic torque converter, but a small electric motor built into the transmission adds a bit of thrust and helps conserve fuel. Mazda claims it designed the motor specifically with this drivetrain in mind.

Aside from the above, the CX-90 stands out from the CX-60 thanks to a more rigid body and tweaked suspension. The seat positions inside have also been revised, and just like the MX-5, the car supports Kinematic Posture Control – a feature that selectively applies brakes to the inward-facing rear wheel to facilitate fast curves.

The revised rear end styling and added inter-axle spacing lets the large SUV to offer much more legroom and trunk space than any other Mazda on the market. The buyers can choose whether to put a bench seat or two individual seats in the middle row and how many seats to install in the back row.

In terms of options, the model will ship with displays up to 12.3 inches large, a Bose audio system, a HUD and a panoramic glass roof. Interior trim options will include different kinds of leather, wood and fabric.

Sales in the USA are scheduled to start in the spring.