Mazda will produce a three-row SUV that is larger than the popular CX-9. The CX-90 midsize SUV is said to be more premium. It may draw inspiration from the CX-9, but the CX-90 is its own nameplate with its own unique value proposition. We’ve seen a similar effort from Mazda with the CX-50, a larger small SUV than the CX-5 that has received great reviews. Here’s what we know about the CX-90 nameplate thus far.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 will debut at the top of 2023

While there aren’t many CX-90 details out as of 2022, we know that the midsize SUV is slated to make its debut in January 2023. Sales should begin in 2023 as well. So, the CX-90 is on its way.

The prospect of a new midsize model from Mazda is exciting because of how impactful the CX-9 has been on its vehicle segment. If the idea is to create a more premium option, then expect plenty of standard creature comforts and innovative tech from the CX-90.

The CX-50 isn’t a huge deviation from the CX-5. It’s marketed as a more rugged, capable model with a more modern platform. Based on the 2023 Mazda CX-9’s starting price of $38,750, the CX-90 will likely start at around $40,000. Mazda has teased an inline six-cylinder for the midsize SUV. Car and Driver expects that it will use a 48-volt hybrid system as well.

The CX-90 is positioned to compete with the best in its vehicle segment

Why create a new midsize SUV nameplate if the CX-9 exists? The short answer is that Japanese automaker Mazda wants to introduce an even more competitive model. The CX-5 was already a top-five small SUV, but many automotive publications rank the CX-50 above its predecessor.

The CX-9 may offer great value for the money, but it has been fairly stagnant in rankings. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade seem practically immovable from their high-ranking positions. Instead of redesigning the CX-9, it makes sense that Mazda would create a new nameplate with a clean slate to disrupt rankings. Consumers and experts are already speculating how the CX-90 will outdo the CX-9 with little information on the midsize SUV.

The motivation behind the creation of the CX-90 is to make some noise in its segment. If the CX-9 hasn’t had the desired effect on the market, then the CX-90 is coming to shake things up. There’s no news on whether or not the CX-90 is a CX-9 replacement, but Mazda’s expanding portfolio means even more options for consumers, which is a win. If Mazda does axe the CX-9, it’s because the CX-90 platform is better for large groups of passengers.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a better family SUV than its predecessor

Mazda produces sporty vehicles. Even its SUVs are sportier than most rivals. The automaker is creating larger small and midsize SUV models like the CX-50 and CX-90 to comfortably accommodate passengers. The Japanese automaker’s SUVs will still be exceptionally refined, but the company is clearly looking to expand its portfolio to better suit the needs of drivers with families the way models like the Kia Telluride do. Will the CX-90 be a legitimate Kia Telluride rival?