What was previously a rumour is now a confirmation as Mazda Australia’s boss has reaffirmed details of the next-generation 2023 Mazda CX-5, according to a report by carsales.com.au.

The next-gen 2023 Mazda CX-5 will be one of the first models to receive the new rear-wheel drive platform, as well as mild-hybrid straight-six engines.  

When asked if the next-gen Mazda CX-5 will launch with the new platform during an event, Mazda Australia marketing and product director Alastair Doek hinted that it could, saying, “We can't really answer specific model stuff, but I guess... what segment around the globe is the biggest? The answer would be 'SUV'...”

Later, Mazda Australia’s Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi confirmed in his presentation that the Mazda CX-5 as one of the models to receive the new rear-wheel drive platform.

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“Mazda continues to invest in high-efficiency combustion engines, with SKYACTIV-X, and the new generation straight-six engine family that will power our new-generation large-platform products, which is CX-5 and above.”

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

When the next-gen Mazda CX-5 goes on sale, it will be bigger and more expensive, aimed squarely at German rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Also Read: This RWD 2023 Mazda CX-50 is Japan’s answer to the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupe