2013 Mazda CX-9 debuts before Australian show

Mazda will fully reveal the 2013 CX-9 SUV at the Australian International motor show in October. It appears that Mazda couldn't wait that long, as the company just released a few images of the redesigned people carrier, which now looks like the big brother to the CX-5.

It features the Kodo design language that we've seen at several auto shows, which lends it a sportier look than previous models. Mazda says it upgraded the interior design as well, though pictures weren't provided. Elsewhere in the cabin, the CX-9 uses Mazda's ominously named HMI (human machine interface), which is a voice-recognition system for navigation and entertainment. It will also feature safety systems such as lane-departure warning, forward-obstruction warning and high-beam control.

Like the previous version, the CX-9 will use Mazda's 3.7-liter V6 for power; last year's model made 273 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque.

The 2012 Australian International motor show opens to the press Oct. 18 and to the public the day after.

MAzda
The 2013 Mazda CX-9 uses the company's Kodo design language.

By Jake Lingeman