Mazda New Zealand is confident that a petrol-only CX-9 SUV, in a sector known for its orientation toward diesel will not backfire, as many people don’t like diesel and it has diesel’s performance without the extra add-ons.

The vehicle featured at Auckland’s Food Show where Mazda New Zealand’s general manager for vehicle sales and marketing Glenn Harris explained that the CX-9 sets a precedent in the segment as petrol-only accompanied by a 2.5-litre ‘Skyactive-G’ turbocharged engine producing 170kW of power and 420Nm of torque teamed to six-speed automatic transmission with front and all-wheel drive options.

“The CX-9 uses 8.8-litres per 100km on a ‘real world’ combined cycle compared to 7.7-litres per 100km for what is likely to be its key competitor, the Hyundai Santa Fe, and a tough to achieve 11-litres per 100km on the outgoing CX-9.”

Harris elaborated that the interior focuses on versatility and functionality as it has capacity for seven people but that it rewards the driver by giving the driver the “best seat in the house”. “Everyone is surrounded by high-quality materials, really premium details, making it an indulgent space you can enjoy being in.”

Three models will be available – a front and all-wheel-drive GSX, and a range-topping Limited. Harris said the GSX all-wheel-drive will be the top seller, with an initial lean to the Limited.

The leather upholstery is standard, as is a new MZD Connect infotainment system with a heads up display and 8-inch colour LCD screen.

Intelligent safety features are included on both models, with the GSX featuring blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and autonomous emergency braking. The Limited adds radar cruise control which operates down to stop, smart brake support, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, driver attention alert, and forward obstruction warning.

Pricing has not been confirmed but should be around $58,490 to $65,490.