Mazda's commitment to affordable models

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【Summary】Mazda Australia has launched expensive new models that have been criticized for being unaffordable. However, the company's managing director has stated that Mazda will not abandon more affordable options and that the premium models are part of a push towards a more upmarket position. Mazda intends to remain a mainstream appeal brand in Australia while offering more choices. The company confirmed that there will be a next-generation replacement for the Mazda CX-5 midsize SUV.

FutureCar Staff Aug 13, 2023 8:41 PM PT

MAZDA Australia is committed to offering more affordable models alongside its push towards a more 'premium' brand status. While the company has recently launched expensive new models, such as the Mazda CX-60 and CX-90 SUVs, which have been criticized for their high prices, Mazda Australia's managing director, Vinesh Bhindi, emphasized that these new models are not a complete repositioning of the brand.

Bhindi explained that the introduction of the "Mazda Premium" models is meant to offer customers something different, with improved technology, powertrain options, and luxury elements, while still ensuring that the value proposition is strong. The goal is to retain existing customers and attract those who are looking for a slightly more premium option beyond the mainstream models like the CX-5, CX-8, and CX-9.

However, Bhindi confirmed that Mazda Australia has no plans to abandon more affordable options. He mentioned that a new-generation replacement model for the popular Mazda CX-5 midsize SUV is in the works. Additionally, he hinted at the introduction of the Mazda CX-80 once production of the CX-9 stops, further expanding the brand's choices for customers.

Although Mazda Australia has some aging models in its more affordable range, such as the Mazda2 and CX-3, Bhindi stated that these models are constantly updated and refreshed. While he couldn't confirm if there will be new-generation replacement models for these affordable cars, he assured that Mazda Corporation's next priority is developing a scalable architecture for electric vehicle technology, which could include small and big models.

Mazda Australia is committed to bringing all of Mazda Corporation's products to the Australian market, and they actively work to make niche models available to Australian customers. While some models, like the CX-50, may not be available due to right-hand-drive limitations, Mazda Australia strives to offer a wide range of models and technologies to Australian buyers.

Currently, Mazda Australia has 14 different available models, with the affordable CX-3 SUV leading in sales. The CX-3 has seen a significant increase in sales this year and accounts for almost one-fifth of all new Mazdas sold in Australia. By the end of July, Mazda Australia had sold a total of 58,731 units across its model range.