2024 CX-90 will have Mazda's most powerful production engine yet

Back before the holidays last year, Mazda announced that it will be revealing its biggest crossover yet, 2024 CX-90. Billed by the company that it will be wider, longer, and have more aggressive proportions than any current Mazda, it will essentially serve as the brand's flagship model.

Moreover, Mazda mentioned that it will be powered by an inline-six under the hood, as well as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version dubbed e-SkyActiv that's aimed at delivering both efficiency and performance. With such promising features, it seems Mazda is about to make a big impression in the big SUV segment.

Fast forward to the present day and Mazda has yet to actually reveal the CX-90. However, the automaker did share new information about the upcoming vehicle, as well as a sneak peek of what it will look like once it's unveiled.

First and foremost, the CX-90 will be equipped with a 3.3-liter inline-six turbo SkyActiv engine, cranking out an impressive 345 PS and 500 Nm of torque – beating the CX-60 PHEV which already makes 327 PS plus 500 Nm of pull. It will also benefit from mild-hybrid technology which will allow for efficiency without compromising power.

As mentioned earlier, the CX-90 will also be available with a plug-in hybrid inline-six. Now while Mazda has yet to share new details about the electrified engine, perhaps it will be related to the XC-60 PHEV. Instead of an inline-six, the CX-60 plug-in comes with a 2.5-liter SkyActiv inline-four that's paired with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

As far as its looks are concerned, the CX-90 looks like it will be a bigger version of the CX-60. With its bold LED headlights, imposing size, and what looks to be a massive grille up front, the flagship vehicle already looks sleek even before it's even revealed.

Regardless of what customers choose to power the CX-90, the biggest Mazda vehicle yet will be underpinned by the new rear-biased all-wheel drive layout that supports a performance-focused experience. In addition, it will feature the brand's Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) which was first introduced in the MX-5 and will help in delivering better driving dynamics and road-holding capability.

With the 2024 Mazda CX-90 set to debut by January 31, we'll be keeping an eye out for every possible leak or new information regarding the upcoming flagship.