Earlier this year, Mazda revealed that it will introduce 13 new models underpinned by the SkyActiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture with varying degrees of electrification. Following that, a report by Automotive News has clarified the timeline for the upcoming Mazda models, albeit based on the US market.

Here are a few noteworthy ones based on the report, the Mazda CX-5 is due for “a significant freshening this year,” which could suggest a full model change. Earlier reports of the Mazda CX-5’s future platform with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and straight-six engine have been dismissed by Car and Driver.

Also read: RWD 2023 Mazda CX-5 might not be true, could be replaced by CX-50

Looking back at the spyshots of the heavily camouflaged SUV, it does lack the traditional RWD proportions with the front wheels pushed further from the bulkhead, suggesting a traditional FWD platform instead. Though only time will reveal which speculation is true.

Also read: Spied: Is this our first look at the upcoming RWD, straight-6 Mazda CX-5, or CX-50?

What’s less contradictory is the Mazda CX-50 as reports have been consistent, stating that it will be based on the new scalable RWD platform with the straight-six engine. It is expected to be revealed next year and go on sale in the US in the first half of 2022.

The Mazda 3 is also due a refresh sometime in 2022, considering that it was introduced in 2019 and will have reached the typical mid-life cycle by next year. The Mazda 6 has been discontinued in the US market, but it is expected to return on the RWD platform, possibly in late-2022.

Also read: US says goodbye to Mazda 6 and CX-3; Mazda 6 could return with in-line 6 and RWD

Since Mazda has reportedly filed trademarks for the names CX-50, CX-70, and CX-90 in the US, we could be looking at three SUV models underpinned by the new RWD platform. The CX-9 will reportedly be renamed to CX-90 while the CX-70 could arrive in 2023.

Also read: Mazda to electrify 13 models by 2025; Malaysia's next CX-5 could be a hybrid