On January 31 local time, Mazda North American Operations, which oversees operations of Mazda Motor Corporation in North America, unveiled the Mazda CX-90, the company’s new mid-size crossover SUV.
MAZDA CX-90 (US model)
Mazda plans to introduce four models from its Large Product Group(1) by the end of 2023 to the global market where demand for SUVs is strong. Following the CX-60 released last year, the CX-90 is the second model in Mazda’s Large Product Group and offers a significant evolution in environmental and safety performance and greater joy of driving. The CX-90’s launch enhances Mazda’s SUV lineup, enabling the company to meet customer needs and the particularities of each market. The CX-90 also gives a further boost to Mazda’s business and brand.
The CX-90 is a crossover SUV newly developed in light of features that customers in the important North American market demand. Based on the “For the Voyage of Your Life” concept, this wide-body three-row SUV offers greater comfort, functionality, and safety performance, making driving more enjoyable and travel with several friends and family more pleasant. This new flagship model makes its debut in the United States this spring.
The CX-90 design expresses a feeling of vitality rooted in Mazda’s KODO or “Soul of Motion” design theme. The aesthetic of subtraction or “less is more” produces a simple shape and realizes dynamic and majestic proportions. The interior is an expression of Japanese aesthetic throughout, incorporating the dynamism of light and natural materials in an orderly elegant space.
For the powertrain, Mazda will offer a new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder gasoline engine augmented by a 48-volt mild hybrid system as well as a plug-in hybrid system e-SKYACTIV PHEV comprising a 2.5-liter in-line four-cylinder gasoline engine. In combination with the new rear-biased AWD architecture, the CX-90 offers superior environmental performance while honoring the driver’s intentions.
Mazda also focused meticulous attention on creating a comfortable environment for all on board. The interior space has been enlarged around all seats. The third row is designed to seat three(2) and equipped with its own air conditioning vents. In addition, the CX-90’s enhanced configuration reinforces towing performance, which together other amenities boosts its functionality, enabling the driver and passengers to enjoy a variety of settings and experiences during the drive.
Furthermore, inclusion of See-Through View(2), capable of intuitively discerning information necessary for vehicle operation, as well as a large active driving display(2) support safe vehicle operation and enhance the driver’s peace of mind.
In moving toward 2030, Mazda will continue research based on the company’s human-centered philosophy, create more moving experiences for people to enjoy as they move about in their daily life, and deliver greater enjoyment to everyday life, uplifting and energizing people.
(1) The primary markets where the Mazda CX-60 and CX-80 will be introduced are Europe, Japan, and other regions. The Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 will mainly be launched in North America and other regions. (2) Configuration varies according to vehicle grade.
Toyota has unveiled the all-new Prius for the first time globally, with Series Parallel Hybrid (HEV) models to launch in winter this year and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) models to launch in spring 2023.
Coming with the tagline “Just in time for the 21st century,” the Prius was first launched in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car. The model’s second generation introduced the Prius’ distinctive monoform silhouette for the first time and delivered even better fuel efficiency with the inclusion of an evolved Series Parallel Hybrid System (THSII). The third generation Prius introduced a larger capacity 1.8-liter engine and more efficient hybrid system to not only enhance fuel efficiency but driving performance as well. With the fourth generation, the Prius used the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform for the first time to deliver improved environmental performance and an evolved driving experience.
Meaning “to go before” in Latin, the Prius has led the expansion of HEVs over the 25 years since it was first launched as a new-generation eco-car with outstanding fuel efficiency. Total cumulative sales of the Prius worldwide have reached about 5.05 million units(1), accounting for a reduction equivalent to at least about 82 million tons(2) of CO2 emissions as of March 2022. While the hybrid system had its start with the Prius, almost every model these days, from compact cars to SUVs, minivans, and commercial vehicles, has a hybrid version cherished and enjoyed by countless customers.
While the Prius has played a leading role in driving hybrid use, the current spread of HEVs through a wide range of models means it has reached a turning point.
The development team decided to start from scratch and look at what the Prius needs to remain popular for the next 25 years. Based on a desire to renew the Prius itself and communicate the appeal of hybrid cars to an even wider audience, the Hybrid Reborn concept was created.
The automotive industry is going through a once-in-a-century transformation, with a range of new next-generation powertrain options being developed. For the Prius HEV to continue as the vehicle of choice for the coming generation, the new Prius needed more than its core strength as an environmentally friendly car. Therefore, it was developed as an exhilarating package with, stylish designs that users will fall in love with at first sight and captivating driving performance.
Following Japan, the new Prius will be launched in North America, Europe, and other countries around the world. It will also be offered in Japan through the KINTO(5) car subscription service. Actual details of the service plan will be announced in winter this year.
(1) December 1997 to September 2022 (present). (2) Based on total cumulative global sales of 4.99 million Prius and Prius PHEV models as of March 2022 according to calculations by Toyota. (5) Compared to the previous model Prius (1.8-liter HEV).
Detailed information about the all-new Prius, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/38225618.html.
Today, Toyota presents the world premiere of the all-new bZ4X, the first model in a new series of bZ beyond Zero battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Faithful in its design and technology to its concept predecessor, revealed earlier this year, the production-ready bZ4X is the first model to be developed by Toyota entirely as a BEV. It is also the first car to be built on the companys new BEV dedicated platform. Based on e-TNGA philosophy, this has been co-developed by Subaru and Toyota. Incorporating the battery unit as an integral part of the chassis, beneath the vehicle floor, this gives the fundamental benefits of a low centre of gravity, excellent front/rear weight balance and high body rigidity for excellent safety, ride and handling.
The bZ4X is a spacious, comfortable SUV, available with a new all-wheel drive system that provides class-leading off-road handling and performance with separate electric motors for each axle. Its clean, sleek and powerful exterior design reflects both its advanced BEV qualities and SUV status, and debuts a new brand-defining hammerhead frontal shape, communicating the cars strong stance.
The long wheelbase provides excellent accommodation in a light and open five-seat cabin, plus generous load capacity.
Toyota has drawn on almost 25 years experience in electrified vehicle battery technology to secure world-leading quality, durability and reliability for the lithium-ion unit which powers the bZ4X. Even after 10 years of driving, the battery is expected to still operate at 90% of its original performance*.
(*Target values during development. The period of use and mileage is assumed to be 10 years, or 240,000 km (150,000 miles), whichever is shorter.)
With a fully charged battery, expected range is more than 450 km (depending on version, exact data to be confirmed later). The bZ4X will also offer advanced technology features, including a solar panel roof to help charge the battery while driving or parked, and third generation Toyota Safety Sense with new and improved active safety and driver assistance systems.
The bZ4X will have its European premiere on 2 December, just prior to the opening of a dedicated online reservation service for customers who want to be among the first to obtain the new model.
Debut for Toyotas new BEV dedicated platform
The bZ4X is the first car to be built on the companys new BEV dedicated platform based on e-TNGA philosophy.
This completely new platform has the flexibility to be used for potential future bZ models and is designed for production at scale. Critically, the slim battery unit is located fully beneath the vehicle floor and forms part of the chassis, helping achieve a low centre of gravity, ideal front/rear weight balance and high body rigidity. These qualities combine to give the bZ4X stable and responsive dynamic performance and, with a long wheelbase, excellent interior space.
Design exterior
Toyota has produced a sleek and robust design for the bZ4X thats equally appropriate for modern urban life and the countryside, blending the advanced look of a BEV with the original qualities of an SUV. The frontal appearance is smart and avoids unnecessary decoration. It is characterised by a new brand-defining hammerhead shape with signature slim headlight units and an emphasis on the front corners that communicates the cars strong stance.
In side view, the silhouette is sleek with a low overall height, slender front pillars and a low axle line that reflects the low centre of gravity achieved with the new platform. Wheel arch mouldings, large wheels (up to 20-inch diameter) pushed out to the corners of the body and thick rocker panels express the cars authentic SUV character. At the rear, the design focus is again on emphasising the corners, with a distinctive taillight bridging the width of the vehicle.
Compared to the Toyota RAV4, the exterior dimensions illustrate the design benefits inherent in the e-TNGA platform. For example, the bZ4X has an overall height thats lower by 85 mm, shorter overhangs and a wheelbase that thats 160 mm longer than the RAV4. The bonnet line is also reduced in height by 50 mm. Overall agility is reflected in a class-leading 5.7 m turning radius.
The design incorporates aerodynamic elements that contribute to the generous driving range, including apertures set deep in the front bumper corners to create smooth air curtains; a full underbody cover; a split roof spoiler and rear duck-tail lip spoiler; rear diffuser; and a precisely angled rear screen. The slim lower grille has a shutter that adjusts to channel cooling air flow to the battery and helps reduce wind resistance.
Design interior
The theme for the interior is lagom the Swedish word that expresses something that is just right. Here it is reflected in comfort and spaciousness that give the cabin the ambience of a living room, a feeling thats enhanced by using soft, woven trim textures, satin-finish detailing and the option of a panoramic roof.
The instrument panel is slim and low set, adding to the sense of openness and the drivers forward visibility. The hands on the wheel, eyes on the road principle is supported by the human-centred cockpit in which the seven-inch TFT instrument and information display sits directly in the drivers forward eyeline, above the line of the steering wheel, so the meters can be viewed with minimal eye movement.
The long wheelbase delivers class-leading legroom for all occupants and a one-metre couple distance between front and rear passenger hip points. There is also generous load space with an adjustable deckboard; with the rear seats in place, there is up to 452 l.
Performance
The front-wheel drive bZ4X is powered by a high-response 150 kW electric motor. It produces 204 DIN hp and 265 Nm of torque, enabling 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h. The all-wheel drive model (further details below) has maximum power of 217.5 DIN hp with 336 Nm of torque; top speed is unchanged, while acceleration to 100 km/h is reduced to 7.7 seconds. All performance figures remain provisional prior to homologation.
The system offers the option of single pedal drive with a boost in the braking energy regeneration that lets the driver accelerate and slow the vehicle using only the throttle pedal.
Driving range and battery technology
Driving range is a critical consideration for EV customers and Toyota has brought to bear almost 25 years experience in high-capacity battery development to ensure that not only does the bZ4X offer peace of mind of in terms of the distance it can cover, but also reassurance that that capability can be maintained year after year. In line with development targets for the battery, only a marginal reduction in battery performance is expected around just 10% in 10 years of driving, or 240 000 kilometres, whichever comes first.
The high-density lithium-ion battery has a 71.4 kWh capacity that is expected to deliver a driving range of more than 450 km (applying to WLTP metrics). Figures depend on version and remain provisional at this stage, prior to homologation.
Thanks to an efficient and effective heating system, including a heat pump, reliability is also maintained in sub-zero temperatures, with only a modest reduction in range compared to competitor models. Similarly, the battery can be fast-charged without compromising safety or service life: an 80% charge can be achieved in around 30 minutes with a 150 kW fast-charging system (CCS2). From Q4 2022, a new 11 kW three-phase on-board charger will be available.
Key to the batterys quality and durability is multiple monitoring of the voltage, current and temperature, from individual cell level. If any abnormal heat generation is detected, controls are automatically triggered. Countermeasures have been put place to mitigate any material degradation, and there are safeguards in the manufacturing process to prevent foreign matter from entering the battery. In a Toyota first, the battery is water-cooled.
All-wheel drive
Toyota worked with its development partner Subaru in engineering a new BEV all-wheel drive system, that draws on the great AWD heritage of both companies. This provides added safety when driving in difficult conditions and gives the bZ4X genuine, class-leading SUV off-road driving ability.
The AWD model features separate 80 kW motors driving the front and rear axles. XMODE with its different drive modes can also be selected to suit the conditions with settings for snow/mud; deep snow and mud (below 20 km/h); and Grip Control for tougher off-road driving (below 10 km/h).
Steer-by-wire system
The bZ4X will be the first production Toyota to offer a steer-by-wire system One Motion Grip due for introduction in Europe at a later date. Dispensing with the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the front wheels, this electronic system adjusts the tyre angle precisely according to the drivers intention, and provides more legroom, improving driving position freedom and ease of entry and exit. The traditional steering wheel is replaced with the One Motion Grip-control, making operation smoother and easier, with no need for hand-over-hand turning. Full-lock can be achieved with just a 150-degree turn.
With no physical connection in the system, unnecessary vibration from the tyres is blocked, but the driver still experiences valuable feedback, such as from the road surface. The steering feeling is improved through independent control of the steering torque; steering characteristics can be changed according to the drive mode selected.
Solar panel roof
The bZ4Xs driving range can be maximised with the use of an optional solar panel roof. This captures solar energy with zero emissions and zero cost to generate electricity to charge the cars drive battery. It can be used when the cars ignition is on or off and Toyota calculates that it can harness enough power in the course of a year to enable 1,800 km of driving.
New generation Toyota Safety Sense
The bZ4X will benefit from the third generation Toyota Safety Sense with new and improved functions to provide protection against an even wider range of common accident risks. It can operate as a partner to the driver to realise the ultimate mobility society goal: zero fatalities and injuries in traffic accidents.
By expanding the detection range of the millimetre wave radar and monocular camera, the performance of each function has been enhanced. New features will include expansion of the Pre-Collision System to recognise vehicles that are oncoming and cutting in; low-speed acceleration suppression; and emergency stopping assistance.
Additionally, a new multimedia system with over-the-air (OTA) software updates will be available.
Introducing Toyota Beyond Zero
The bZ4X is the first model in Toyotas new bZ sub-brand the name standing for beyond Zero, expressing the environmental leadership the company has pursued since pioneering electrified mobility with the original Prius, the worlds first hybrid electric production car, in 1997.
The introduction of the bZ4X strengthens Toyotas multi-technology approach to meet different mobility requirements by offering customers a full line-up of electrified vehicles, including HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs. Toyota aims to reduce CO2 with products that are easy to use and have strong customer appeal, and these technologies will together help deliver the goal of carbon neutrality.
Zero emissions are only part of Toyotas ambition as the beyond element in bZ makes clear. It is committed to delivering ever-better mobility for all, with products and services that enhance the pleasure of driving, keeping all road-users safe and helping build better societies around the world.
The bZ4X is a wholly human-centred vehicle, designed to help customers make the change to a BEV with no compromise or inconvenience and maximising opportunities in design, performance and the ownership experience that are specific to pure electric vehicles going beyond customers expectations.
