Automotive Engineering - March 2023 - 11

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Mazda's 2024 CX-90 offers all-new turbo I-6, PHEV propulsion
With crossover SUVs now the backbone
of its North American sales volume,
Mazda on Jan. 31 revealed the CX-90
SUV, a fullsize 3-row model to serve as
the brand's flagship when it goes on
sale this spring. Two hybridized propulsion
options seem well-timed to help
the new SUV transition customers to
the electrified future - but without the
worries regarding driving range or recharging
infrastructure.
At the same time, Mazda executives
and engineers insist that the 2024 CX-90
will remain true to Mazda's promise of
emphasis on engaging driving dynamics
and expressive styling. " We design to a
feeling, not just specifications, " said Jeff
Guyton, president and CEO of Mazda
North American Operations, in a presentation
to media on January 31. Guyton
went on to call the CX-90 a breakthrough
vehicle in its segment. Program
manager Mitsuru Wakiie said the vehicle's
new architecture and propulsion
choices represent engineering that will
help the large SUV " maintain Mazda signature
driving dynamics. "
The 2024 CX-90 replaces the
3-row CX-9 SUV in Mazda's lineup
when it goes on sale in Spring 2023.
Mild-hybrid and PHEV options
The CX-90's propulsion options are led
by a new turbocharged 3.3-L DOHC
inline 6-cyl. - a refinement-first engine
layout that Mazda had promised to reinstitute.
The longitudinal mounting of
the engine was intended by Mazda as a
prime aspect of the CX-90's new, " rearwheel
bias " large-vehicle platform.
The turbocharged I-6 develops a
claimed 340 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm),
Mazda said, although those figures are
achieved with premium unleaded fuel.
The company said the power and torque
ratings are the strongest ever for a
Mazda production-vehicle engine. In an
added twist, the engine incorporates a
mild-hybrid system with an electric motor
located in the P2 position between
the engine and the 8-speed automatic
transmission. The motor can launch the
CX-90 from standstill, propel the vehicle
at low speeds and augment the engine's
output when appropriate. The P2-placed
motor also means the transmission does
not require a torque converter.
Mazda explains by saying in a release
that the 8-speed automatic transmission
standard for both drivetrains was " specifically
designed for the electrified longitudinal
powertrains and large-platform
vehicles. The multi-speed automatic
gearbox, without a torque converter,
achieves smooth and direct acceleration
while improving drivetrain efficiency. "
The second powertrain option for the
2024 CX-90 is a variant of Mazda's
longstanding Skyactiv 2.5-L DOHC fourcylinder
in a plug-in hybrid arrangement
incorporating an electric motor
and 17.8-kWh battery pack. Wakiie said
the engine is tuned specifically for the
CX-90 application and combined with
the electric motor can muster a total of
323 hp and the same 369 lb-ft as the
turbocharged I-6 drivetrain. This variant
of the CX-90 can operate purely as an
EV at higher speeds, although the company
did not yet offer specifics.
Mazda said its i-Activ all-wheel drive
2024 CX-90 cabin.
AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING
is standard and that the vehicle employs
the Kinematic Posture Control
chassis-control software first deployed
for the MX-5 roadster. The system controls
body lift while cornering to provide
more comfort for occupants.
The company did not present details
of the 3-row 2024 CX-90s dimensions.
The current 3-row CX-9, which the CX90
replaces, has a wheelbase of 115.3 in.
(2929 mm) and has a 199.4-in. (5065mm)
overall length.
Bill Visnic
March 2023 11
BOTH IMAGES: MAZDA
Automotive Engineering - March 2023

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