5 Minutes
Mazda's CX-90 gets a speculative mid-cycle makeover — in CGI
Mazda’s momentum in North America has been notable this year: MNAO reports almost 320,000 vehicles sold, roughly 2% higher than the same period last year. While some models slipped — the Mazda3 fell more than 18% and the CX-30 posted a 35.6% decline — the brand’s crossover lineup carried the day. The CX-50 jumped about 36.7%, and the flagship CX-90 climbed 16.4%, approaching 45,000 units.
Amid that growth, fans and digital artists are already imagining the next step for Mazda’s largest three-row SUV. A recent unofficial project from YouTube’s AutoYa channel offers a CGI preview of what a 2027 mid-cycle refresh could look like for the CX-90. It’s purely speculative, but the render gives a useful look at subtle design directions Mazda might take.
What the CGI shows
The AutoYa concept is restrained rather than radical. Key visual changes include:
- A slightly reshaped grille with a blacked-out border replacing chrome accents
- Revised front and rear bumpers for a cleaner, more sculpted appearance
- Distinctive new headlights with an LED daytime running light signature
- Updated rear LED taillight housings and minor trim tweaks
- Interior hints: a refreshed steering wheel and a larger central infotainment screen
The video places the CGI model beside the production 2026 CX-90 for comparison, and cycles through several exterior and interior color combinations. The result is tasteful and conservative — the sort of update that preserves Mazda’s elegant styling while giving the flagship SUV a slightly sharper, more modern look.
Design and market context
Mazda has positioned the CX-90 as a premium-focused three-row crossover that blends driving dynamics with upscale interior materials. The imaginary refresh stays true to that strategy: it’s not about chasing flash, but about refining details that appeal to buyers who want subtle luxury and strong design language.
For Mazda, small visual updates make sense. The CX-90 was introduced recently, and a mid-cycle update for the 2027 model year would keep the product fresh against competitors in the crowded three-row SUV segment — where refinement, infotainment, and perceived quality matter as much as powertrains.
Performance and pricing snapshot
While the CGI project touches only styling and interior tech, the CX-90’s existing mechanical lineup remains compelling. Current models include the 3.3 Turbo gasoline engines and a PHEV variant for buyers seeking electrified range.
Approximate U.S. pricing for the current CX-90 lineup is:
- 3.3 Turbo Select (base): $38,800
- 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus (top gasoline trim): $50,270
- CX-90 PHEV Preferred: starting near $49,945, rising to about $58,500 for higher trims
These figures reflect Mazda’s premium positioning: more expensive than mainstream mid-size SUVs but competitive versus luxury-branded rivals.
Should Mazda follow this route?
The CGI refresh is a safe play. It would likely satisfy current owners and prospective buyers who prefer a refined update over a wholesale redesign. If Mazda wants to maintain sales momentum, modest styling tweaks, a stronger infotainment display, and interior improvements are logical moves — especially as the EV and hybrid landscape accelerates.
Quote: "A tasteful mid-cycle update keeps a product relevant without alienating loyal buyers," says a product analyst familiar with crossover market trends.
Whether Mazda will adopt any of these specific changes remains unknown. For now, the AutoYa render is an interesting look at how small visual and tech upgrades could keep the CX-90 competitive through 2027.
Key takeaways
- The CGI refresh is unofficial but plausible: subtle grille, revised lights, and a larger screen.
- CX-90 sales are strong and help offset declines in other Mazda models.
- Pricing keeps the CX-90 in a near-luxury bracket, with PHEV options pushing entry prices higher.
What do you think — would you buy a refreshed CX-90 with these tweaks, or wait for a full redesign? Let the design and driving priorities decide.
Source: autoevolution
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