Mazda’s upmarket quest continues with the 2024 CX-90 its latest endeavor. This new model, replacing the outgoing CX-9, is the brand’s largest vehicle yet. Not only does the CX-90 raise the bar in the ultra-competitive mainstream segment, but it makes a play for premium shoppers. Will BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus owners consider one? They just might once they explore what’s on tap.
2024 Mazda CX-90 Overview
Two generations and 15 years later and Mazda sunsets its three-row CX-9. That model, serving as the brand’s flagship, supplied strong competition. Eventually, though, its rivals developed new products with the Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, and Hyundai Palisade among them. Over the past few years, the bar moved up a notch or two, necessitating a response from Mazda. The CX-90 is its latest quest, a three-row midsize SUV with room for six, seven, or eight.
Mazda sells the CX-90 in 11 configurations with the price spanning $39,595 to $59,950, plus a $1,375 destination charge. Not only did Mazda replace the CX-9 with a new model sitting on a fresh platform, but it scrapped the earlier powertrains. The 2024 CX-90 has a choice of a standard turbocharged inline-six engine with a mild hybrid and an automatic transmission or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Notably, the CX-90 is rear-biased with power sent to all four wheels.
Highlights of the 2024 Mazda CX-90
There are many attributes concerning the 2024 CX-90 that must be mentioned. We’ll focus on the core features and offer comments as necessary.
Bold Design and Larger Size
The CX-90 features a signature wide grille, LED accent lights, boomerang-shaped indents, a chiseled hood, and expansive wraparound rear lights. This leads to a more substantial and imposing presence compared to its predecessor. It also features an additional 7.5 inches between the wheels, sitting on a 122.8-inch wheelbase, and is 201.6 inches long.
Turbo Engine Choices
Mazda offers a 3.3-liter inline turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a high-output Turbo S version. The turbocharged models develop between 280 and 340 horsepower, depending on fuel type. It should also be noted that both turbo models come equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for enhanced efficiency.
Available Hybrid
The PHEV version pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 100-KW electric motor, delivering up to 323 horsepower and 26 miles of electric-only range. Both turbo models come equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for enhanced efficiency.
Seating Configurations
Depending on the model, seating for 6 to 8 passengers is available. The configurations vary between bench seats, captain’s chairs, and a two-person contoured seat in the third row.
Upscale Interior
The interior showcases genuine leather or quilted coverings in higher models, elegant metallic trim accents, and optional heated and ventilated seats, reflecting a combination of comfort, luxury, and quietness. No model in this segment is more upscale than the Mazda, particularly in the top trim.
Infotainment System
Standard features of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 include a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 10.25-inch center display screen, both providing clear visuals and controlled via a knob. Unfortunately, the “knob experience” falls short as it is distracting at times. We wish Mazda would go with touchscreen access instead. The vehicle comes with a standard 8-speaker audio system, offering a connection to various smartphone capabilities. For those seeking an enhanced auditory experience, an upgrade option to a 12-speaker Bose system is also available.
