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They will probably target the "entry-premium midsize CUV" segment, which means another transverse mount engine. I am willing to bet they are looking to fill the lower price point niche below the new Infiniti QX50 and BMW X2.
Nope.
That means that Mazda would need to develop a new transmission design that is RWD biased, and can be optioned for AWD. The way Mazda makes decisions right now, that's not what is going to happen.
It will be a transverse engine in the front, with a PTO fed AWD option, exactly similar to the CX-9, which isn't even remotely the best system out there.
It's okay, the majority of potential buyers probably won't be able tell the difference between FWD vs RWD as well as they distinguish the differences between various hair straighteners.
Remember this discontinued refrigerator from Toyota? It slotted somewhere between their compact CUV, Rav 4, and the larger Highlander. The raised refrigerator (wagon) leaves a niche to be filled now that it is discontinued. This is also a niche that Mazda has yet to fill in North America.
Last edited by SayNoToPistons; 12-04-2017 at 11:01 AM.