Inline-6 Mazda CX-5 rumor seems to be happening
Rumor has been circulating online for some time that Mazda would have designed a new platform that could accommodate a new 6-cylinder in-line engine mounted longitudinally. This rumor seems to materialize. And according to what has recently leaked on the internet, the CX-5 will be the manufacturer’s first model to take advantage of this new architecture.
Mazda reportedly confirmed this information to Australian journalists during an online press event. It was Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director of Mazda Australia, who sold the fuse by proclaiming that “Mazda continues to invest in fuel efficient combustion engines as well as in the new family of inline 6-cylinder engines that will power our future vehicles on a large platform, i.e. the CX-5 climbing “.
This statement fits well with the rumor that has been circulating online for some time to this effect. Originally planned for the next generation of the Mazda6 – the one that was recently withdrawn from the range – this longitudinal architecture would aim to ensure the next Mazda a sportier ride and a more luxurious appearance, similar to what offer German luxury vehicle manufacturers. This strategy also fits well with the manufacturer’s aspirations to sell high-end vehicles.
This engine configuration also has advantages from an energy-efficient point of view. By increasing displacement and shortening piston stroke, the engine revolves less, resulting in reduced GHG emissions. It is also easier to incorporate a mild hybridization system into a longitudinally placed engine, as these systems are usually found integrated into the transmission itself. It also achieves better weight distribution, while routing power to the rear axle first (even if the vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive), which allows the vehicle to be more dynamic when cornering.
However, we do not know if all this will drive up the price of the CX-5, or if it would be a stretched version of the model released with the CX-50 nomenclature. Mazda could follow suit with other automakers and leave the current CX-5’s engine configuration intact while offering a more corpulent, luxurious and capable variant.
