Does anyone know if the new Mazda9 be Rear Wheel Drive?
Any pics?
Any specs?

Thanks

The Mazda9 SUV I assume? Yea I think it's a safe bet to say it's RWD with an on/off 4WD system.

So that SUV thing is really the Mazda9? That's too bad. So what happens to the Miller cycle engine, is that offically dead now? :(

Originally posted by m477
So that SUV thing is really the Mazda9? That's too bad. So what happens to the Miller cycle engine, is that offically dead now? :( Who knows... let's wait and see.

Mazda has been making some really exciting cars and if they take off like they should... we will see a lot of good things from them :)

Miller Cycle is dead. Dirty emissions and a lot of complexity and cost without much benefit.

As far a Millenia replacement, doubtful. Mazda thinks they have realized they don't have the name recognition to take on names such as Lexus, BMW, Audi, Jaguar, etc in that arena. If they are going to break $30,000, they will do it with sports cars.

Lastly, if that is a Tribute replacement, it will most certainly be FWD/AWD. If it is built on the Mazda6 platform, this is certain. I don't think the RX-8 chassis (Mazda's only RWD) would transfer well at all to SUV capability. Using Explorer chassis would probaly be better suited.

or more likely the escape platform

Well, considering the Esacape/Tribute are built on a version of the old Mazda 626 platform, I suppose they are one and the same.

But moving to the 6 platform makes much more sense. At least the 6 platform is world class in just about every way. The old 626 platform worked, but was nothing to write home about. It is likely the Escape/Tribute will be moved to the 6 platform. I just hope they'll build them in Flat Rock, not KC. Apparently Tributes in other parts of the world (not from Kansas City) have proven just as reliable as other Mazda vehicles. While we here in the US get stuck with Tribute built to crummy standards in a Ford plant.

But with the 6 and next Mustang to be built in Flat Rock, I kinda doubt there will be enough production capacity to build the Escape/Tribute there as well.

thank God the RX-8 is built in Japan with Japanese parts.

I read a Motor Trend 1-year wrap up of the Mazda Tribute, and they liked it a lot more than the Escape. Kind'a funny, considering they're based on the same platform. Mazda is really building a reputation for making cars that are more fun than their direct competition.

I am into the rx-8 so much that I never heard of the mazda-9..does anyone have a picture they can post.. Im leaving mitsu for mazda, trading in my eclipse gt for the 8. I would like to do the same with my wife's montero sport when its time, but we're not thrilled about the tribute...Is the "9" pretty cool or what? please post photos or info if avail...thanks..

Originally posted by Jerome81
I don't think the RX-8 chassis (Mazda's only RWD) would transfer well at all to SUV capability.

Um, the Miata has always been RWD, not that it would be a good platform for an SUV either.