A diesel-powered Mazda CX-9 featuring the brand’s 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D engine could be on the horizon soon.

While we know that Mazda is moving to scrap its V6 to use its SkyActiv technology, North Americans have been more-or-less in the dark about the diesel variant making it into a production car.

The automaker has been strongly hinting that the next-generation Mazda6, based on the Takeri concept, will be available with a diesel engine but official confirmation is still missing.

The larger CX-9, which is popular in the U.S., currently uses a 3.7-liter V6, but the diesel engine could offer a reasonable alternative with 310 lb-ft of torque and much improved fuel economy.

Still, the news of a diesel CX-9 refers to the large crossover moving into the European market where diesels account for a much larger market share than the U.S. The SkyActiv-D is also currently available in overseas versions of the CX-5, yet absent in our market.

[Source: AutoExpress]

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 debuted as a crossover for enthusiast drivers and turned out to be a pleasant surprise when we got behind the wheel.

It appears the Japanese automaker will take a lot of what its learned from the CX-5 development to introduce a next-generation CX-9 to the market by late 2013. The all-new CX-9 will be built from the ground up using Mazda’s new SkyActiv technologies, just like the new CX-5 model and every other new vehicle it’s releasing save the scarcely-used rotary engine.

The seven-seater SUV will feature a lightweight chassis and American buyers will probably see a turbocharged four-cylinder of some sort underneath the hood. The Japanese automaker has confirmed that it isn’t working on a new SkyActiv six-cylinder, which makes it doubtful that we’ll see another 3.7-liter V6 in the CX-9.

In the UK, the new CX-9 will be powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel, and there’s a possibility that Mazda may introduce that powerplant in the U.S. with the redesigned CX-9. By shaving off some weight, the 173 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque 2.2-liter could be more than enough to blend performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability for the American market, should it cross the pond.

[Source: Auto Express UK]

Reports are coming in that Mazda is planning to overhaul four of its existing models by 2014. The four models up for redesigns are the Mazda3, Mazda6, MX-5 and CX-9. We’ve already seen the new patent drawings for the upcoming MX-5 refresh, which will hopefully come in 2013 along with a new Mazda3 and CX-9.

The big news, however, is an all-new Mazda6 that is expected to be introduced before the end of next year. There’s a strong possibility that the new Mazda6 will resemble the Takeri Concept. All of the upcoming new Mazdas will sport Skyactiv technologies and ride on lightweight platforms that are being developed in-house at Mazda.

Mazda also stated that they have plans to add stop-start, regenerative braking and hybrid technologies to their models by 2016.

GALLERY: Mazda Takeri Concept

[Source: AutoNews]

U.S safety regulators have begun investigating warranty claims regarding the brake effectiveness of the 2008 Mazda CX-9. The investigation surrounds leaking brake fluid that could affect the brakes of the 2008 CX-9, according to NHTSA.

So far, no injuries or crashes have been reported however, an estimated 37,000 vehicles could be affected. Information was sent to the NHTSA from Mazda regarding a period in the first quarter of 2008 to the third quarter of 2010, displaying a “high number” of warranty claims and reports for the affected CX-9.”When brake fluid leaks into the vacuum booster the driver can experience reduced brake effectiveness which can result in extended stopping distance,” the filing said. So far, a preliminary investigation has been launched that could lead to a recall if regulators determine the vehicle components to be unsafe.

[Source: Reuters]

Mazda will unveil a mid-cycle refresh to it’s award-winning CX-9 crossover SUV at the New York Auto Show. Mazda says the new 2010 model will be “heavily revised” from the 2009 model.

Included in the updates are a facelifted exterior as well as a revamped interior. Mazda also plans to add several new options and increase the overall safety of the vehicle with even more safety features.

Mazda’s press release says they also plan to further improve the “Zoom-Zoom” driving characteristics of the SUV. This might mean a revised suspension but it also might mean an optional V8 engine – we certainly hope so.

In addition to the new CX-9, Mazda will also have the 2010 CX-7 crossover on display – making it’s U.S.-debut after officially launching at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto in February.

The 2010 CX-7 also gets an exterior and interior refresh, as well as added safety and convenience features. One of the most notable new options is the new base engine. Previous models were only available with a 244hp turbocharged direct-injection 2.3-liter four-cylinder, whereas this new base engine is a non-turbo 2.5-liter four. Pricing has yet to be released but this new engine option should help make the 2010 significantly more affordable than the ’09 model.

We’ll bring you full details on both models with our New York Auto Show coverage starting April 8th.