Mazda 2023 models release date

A noted weakness of the current-generation CX-30 is addressed for 2023 with a revised 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four base engine. The updated non-turbo powertrain in Mazda's subcompact SUV develops more output and achieves greater efficiency than the outgoing one, Mazda says—we look forward to getting more details. If it's the same 2.5-liter inline-four that's in the 3 sedan and hatchback, output should rise 5 horsepower, to 191 hp. Fuel economy should also improve by at least one or two mpg, as it does for the 2023 version of the compact car. The revised powertrain joins the returning turbo-four in the lineup and comes just a year after the automaker equipped every CX-30 with all-wheel drive.

The CX-5 compact crossover is mostly a carryover for 2023. Mazda has announced that Rhodium White exterior premium paint replaces Snowflake White Pearl Mica. Other than that, it's essentially the same CX-5 we got in 2022.

The new CX-50 is like the CX-5's bigger, outdoorsy brother. Each compact SUV comes with standard AWD and the same powertrains, both the 187-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four base engine and 227-hp 2.5-liter turbo-four upgrade [or 256-hp with 93 octane]. Where the 2023 CX-50 distinguishes itself is by offering a more outdoorsy design, a slightly different driving experience, and more towing capacity: 3,500 pounds to the CX-5's 2,000-pound limit.

It's no less upscale than the rest of Mazda's SUVs, with the CX-50 boasting features like the brand's first panoramic sunroof and a premium-feeling terracotta interior. There's also a Meridian Edition on the way for the turbo CX-50; it will add black hood graphics, two-tone 18-inch wheels shod in all-terrain tires, and a couple other aesthetic additions. Finally, the CX-50 and CX-5 aren't that far apart in price. The new SUV starts in the high $20,000s and tops out at just over $40,000 fully loaded, which is close to the pricing of its longer-running but similarly named stablemate.

Mazda's plan with the odd MX-30 is unclear. Originally, the idea was to follow up its first dedicated electric SUV with a plug-in hybrid variant that uses a much-anticipated rotary range extender we first heard about in early 2021. It could use the help, as that's the  biggest flaw of the charming electric version: a range of only 100 miles on a full charge. Will an MX-30 PHEV model join the MX-30 EV in the U.S.? We'll see.

Now might be a good time to say your goodbyes to the CX-9. Mazda's 16-year-old three-row flagship is headed for retirement, likely after the 2023 model year, and a replacement has already been designated—the nearly identically named CX-90. What's less clear is when one ends and the other begins. After discontinuing FWD models for 2022, Mazda says the CX-9 lives on for 2023 with no significant updates.

One of three new SUVs joining Mazda's lineup by the end of 2023, the new CX-70 should slot between the CX-50 compact and CX-90 three-row as a midsize five-passenger entry. The automaker says it will be built on a new large-vehicle architecture, which will be RWD based but also work with AWD. Power will come from either an inline-six or plug-in hybrid powertrain. Other than that, you can count on the forthcoming SUV to look good and emphasize handling and driver engagement.

The Mazda CX-30 is pictured here

The CX-9's replacement is expected to ride on a new platform, one that can support inline-six and hybrid powertrain options. Mazda's new largest model will also come equipped with standard AWD. And we're crossing our fingers the CX-90 will offer more room in back than the three-row it replaces. Mazda is mum on timing, but look for the three-row SUV to debut late in 2022 or early in 2023 as a 2024 model.

The Mazda CX-5 pictured here