The Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) plant in Huntsville will be home to the company’s newly-revealed model, the Mazda CX-50 midsize crossover SUV.
Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) unveiled the vehicle on Monday during a virtual world premiere showcasing the new model’s design. According to the company, production on the CX-50 is slated to begin January 2022.
MNAO president and CEO Jeff Guyton indicated that the model’s design was developed to suit the interests of its American customer base.
“This new Mazda vehicle has been developed for North America, particularly to support the active and outdoor lifestyles of customers in this region,” Guyton stated. “The CX-50 encourages people to immerse themselves in nature without compromising on the premium design and outstanding on-road performance Mazda is known for.”
The automotive manufacturer advised that the model will feature superior driving dynamics with enhanced off-road capability, enabling outdoor-loving drivers to journey into various terrains.
Mazda noted that the Limestone County-built CX-50 will emphasize the manufacturer’s “trademark natural driving experience to help create greater confidence on and off-road.” The announcement further stated that the model “will be equipped as standard with the latest i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology and new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, or Mi-Drive.”
Efficient Mazda powertrains Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine and Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine with a six-speed automatic transmission will be available at the time of launch. The company said it will offer an electrified powertrain and a traditional hybrid model of the vehicle in the coming years.
According to Mazda, the model will feature a new “styling expression” which “blends the brand’s striking Kodo design with an outdoor capable presence that respectfully interacts with the surroundings.”
Introducing the first-ever #MazdaCX50. We’re more human in nature.
— Mazda USA (@MazdaUSA) November 15, 2021
Mazda further advised, “Blended seating materials and details inspired by technical, modern outdoor gear all help create a welcoming atmosphere fitting for both adventurists and those just starting their journey into an active lifestyle.”
For outdoor lovers, the CX-50’s dynamics will make for easy loading and securing of outdoor equipment. The model’s midsection will be feature “high strength roof rails” for hauling equipment atop the vehicle.
The company’s Huntsville plant earlier this year kicked off production of the new 2022 Corolla Cross, making MTM the only continent’s sole producer of the vehicle. At full production, the $2.3 billion venture plans to employ 4,000 workers at its North Alabama facility.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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