From CX-60 to CX-90, will Mazda's new SUVs all look the same?

Mazda is set to reveal its second new SUV model early in 2023, but with at least two more to come after the CX-90, how will Mazda differentiate between its new armada of SUVs?

The Japanese carmaker announced last year that it would launch four new SUV models based on a new large vehicle, rear- and all-wheel drive architecture, with new in-line six-cylinder engines and a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The first model to launch is the CX-60, which will roll into Australian dealerships in mid-2023. So far, this is the only model we have seen. The CX-90 will be revealed in January, but timing for the other two - the CX-70 and CX-80 - is unclear.

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Speaking with journalists via an interpreter at the Australian debut of the CX-60, Mazda Motor Corporation chief designer, Akira Tamatani, explained how the four related models will be differentiated within Mazda’s expanding line-up.

“Among the large platform vehicles, we have narrow body types and wide body types. [CX-] 60 and 80 are narrow body models. 70 are 90 are wider. Wider body models, they have got a strong stance. Very strong proportions. That’s the kind of characteristics - they look massive.”

While the CX-60 has seating for five occupants, the CX-80 will have a third seating row. Similarly, the larger CX-70 is a five-seater and the CX-90 is a three-row SUV.

Mr Tamatani added some more detail about what to expect from the CX-80, and what we have already seen in the CX-60.

“When it comes to 60 and 80, they are sporty, they have an element of elegance at the same time. So ruggedness and elegance, we are trying to put those elements in 60 and 80.”

He said each of the models will have their own distinct design, but it is expected they will follow Mazda’s long-running Kodo design philosophy.

The CX-60 is sporty yet elegant.

“The impression you get from those different models will certainly be different,” Mr Tamatani said.

Mr Tamatani said given the size of the vehicles, you can expect more luggage space, too.

The CX-60 can swallow 477 litres worth of luggage with the rear seats in place, which is 39L more than the CX-5. Even though they are both classed as medium SUVs, the CX-60 is larger in most dimensions than the CX-5, although they are both 1680mm tall.

While the wide-body CX-70 and 90 are targeted at the North American market, Mazda Australia has its hands up for each of the new models, and is likely to offer all four.

That's alongside the existing range of SUVs - CX-3, CX-30, MX-30, CX-5, CX-8 and CX-9. The company insists that all models have a place in its line-up, but at some point these newer models will have to replace the older models.