I think it was a bunt. They couldn't pull off 4 different vehicles in the time allotted and laid down a sacrifice bunt with the CX-70. But does any other manufactuer make duplicate models? I get tailoring things to a specific market, but the U.S. is a gigantic market that they keep screwing up.I don't think Mazda honestly knows - this feels more and more like a swing for the fences because it's so out of touch. Their whole strategy is overly complex (8 trim levels in CX90, not counting PHEV) and a 2nd, nearly identical model with very similar pricing that still misses the boat because they've duplicated the 90's cell phone contract style options levels.
Simplicity sells, kids. Both vehicles should have been 1 model with 4 trim levels, 1 engine option (not including PHEV), 3 seat configurations (Captain's with 3rd row, bench with 3rd row or bench without 3rd row). That alone would streamline their production lines.
Bring over CX60 as the luxury option to the CX50.
Yes, way too may models. Let people option equipment if you must to simplify.