Mazda moves up the luxury ladder with all-new model – the CX-90

If you’re a fan of Mazda’s large crossover SUV, the CX-9, then you’re going to love the new CX-90 – Mazda’s new flagship vehicle. It’s larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the CX-9 and better competes in the growing three-row SUV market.

The CX-90 is similar in size to the CX-9 although its wheelbase is increased by 7.5 inches, resulting in more passenger and cargo space. The CX-9 will still be available for 2024, but that will most likely be its final year as the CX-90 is poised to replace it.

The CX-90 is an attempt for Mazda to move its brand more toward the premium end of the market. In doing so, the CX-90 is the first Mazda to use its new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine. Depending on trim level, this engine makes from 280 horsepower all the way up to 340 horsepower. Slotted between those two is a PHEV (plug in hybrid electric vehicle) version that makes 323 horsepower. All models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and, much like the rest of the Mazda SUV lineup, the CX-90 comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Earlier in the year I had an opportunity to drive a CX-90 with the turbocharged engine. More recently, I found myself in a CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a plug-in hybrid system with a single electric motor. Mazda estimates you can travel up to 26 miles on a full charge. With it comes a price tag of $58,920.

Mazda does an excellent job in combining performance, luxury, and economy in the CX-90 PHEV. While performance isn’t generally a priority for most three-row SUV buyers, those that appreciate performance will be quite impressed with the CX-90. It’s quicker, better-handling and more stable than pretty much anything else in its class. And the hybrid version of the CX-90 is quicker than the nonhybrid version, hitting 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, outrunning the 340-hp gas powered CX-90 by more than half a second. Not only is it quick off the line, but it has excellent midrange punch, making squirting through traffic easy – all while bringing in 25 mpg in combined city and highway driving (24 mpg city / 27 mpg highway). All that is missing from the CX-90 PHEV is the throaty exhaust note that the turbo six makes.

When discussing handling, the CX-90 sounds more like a sports car than an SUV. The steering is nicely weighted, and the CX-90 feels planted and secure around corners. The brakes are also impressive, although they can be touchy at first.

Inside is a stylish cabin design that features room for up to eight passengers. Opt for the second-row captain’s chairs and the total seating drops to seven. High-end models get a fabric dashboard upholstery along with soft Nappa leather seats. Lower trim levels may not be as plush, but are still handsomely styled.

A large center console houses several physical buttons for major functions, and each one is clearly labeled and easy to press with only a glance. All controls are within perfect reach for either the driver or passenger. The front seats offer excellent long-haul comfort, while the second-row captain’s chairs should receive no complaints from their occupants. The third row has more room than the one in the CX-9 but it is still best left for small kids.

If there is any shortcoming to the CX-90, it is with storage room. Behind the third row of seats, there’s only 15.9 cubic feet of room. Fold the third row flat and storage grows to 40.1, and when all seats are down, there is 75.2 cubic feet of room. All this is an improvement over the CX-9, but still falls short when compared to the likes of the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Volkswagen Atlas and Honda Pilot.

But while the CX-90 may not have as much utility room as the others, it is far more exciting to drive. And even as a hybrid, the CX-90 PHEV doesn’t detract from Mazda’s trademark athletic driving demeanor and road manners. For 2024, Mazda is upping their A-game and proof of that can be found in the CX-90.
– Christopher A. Randazzo

By The Numbers:

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus

Base Price: $56,950.00
Price as Tested: $58,920.00
Layout: front-engine / all-wheel drive
Engine: 2.5 liter four-cylinder with electric motor
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Horsepower: 323 hp
Torque: 369 lb-ft
EPA Fuel Economy: 24 city / 27 highway mpg

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