Mazda has long been admired for injecting a dose of driving passion and upscale design into the mainstream car market. Now, they’re aiming higher with the 2024 Mazda CX-90, a full-size, three-row SUV designed to challenge the luxury segment. As a flagship model, the CX-90 promises increased space, enhanced luxury, and a price point that reflects its ambition. But does it deliver? This review dives deep into the CX-90, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it truly elevates Mazda into a new premium territory. For those familiar with Mazda’s ethos, it’s clear they’re not just building another SUV; they’re crafting a statement.
A front three-quarter view of the 2024 Mazda CX-90, showcasing its bold grille and elegant headlight design.
Inline-Six Engine: A Masterstroke of Smooth Power
The heart of the Mazda CX-90, and arguably its most compelling feature, is the all-new inline-six engine. Moving away from the more common turbocharged four-cylinders and sometimes unrefined V6s found in competitors, Mazda has embraced the classic smoothness and balance of an inline-six. This 3.3-liter engine is not just naturally aspirated; it’s turbocharged and further enhanced with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This combination delivers a potent 340 horsepower, ensuring the CX-90 moves with surprising agility for its size, hitting 60 mph in a brisk six seconds.
The mild-hybrid system plays a crucial role, providing seamless start-stop operation and boosting low-end torque, effectively minimizing turbo lag. The result is a responsive and refined powertrain that feels distinctly more premium than many rivals. Fuel economy is also commendable for a vehicle of this size and power, achieving a respectable 24 MPG combined. This powertrain marks a significant step up from the previous CX-9’s four-cylinder and positions the CX-90 as a leader in its class for engine refinement and performance. In a market saturated with downsized engines, Mazda’s commitment to an inline-six is a bold and welcome move, echoing the engine configurations historically favored by luxury marques.
A detailed view of the 2024 Mazda CX-90’s interior, highlighting the dashboard layout and the multi-function steering wheel.
Driving Dynamics: Zoom-Zoom Philosophy Elevated
Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” driving philosophy is not lost in translation to a larger SUV. The CX-90 retains the brand’s signature engaging driving dynamics, offering steering feel and responsiveness that rivals many sportier cars, let alone SUVs. Handling is remarkably composed for a vehicle of this size, outclassing competitors like the Toyota Highlander in terms of dynamic capability. While not aiming to be a high-performance SUV in the vein of BMW M or Mercedes-AMG models, the CX-90 strikes an excellent balance between ride comfort and handling prowess.
Think of the first-generation BMW X5 – the CX-90 evokes a similar sense of planted poise and confident handling. Body roll is present but controlled, and the chassis remains composed even when pushed. The all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and allows for confident corner exits, maintaining a neutral and adjustable balance. For drivers who appreciate a degree of engagement behind the wheel, the CX-90 stands out in the three-row SUV segment, proving that practicality doesn’t have to come at the expense of driving enjoyment.
Close-up shot of the “Turbo S” badge on the rear of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S, indicating the high-performance engine variant.
Luxurious Interior: Cabin Craftsmanship and Comfort
Stepping inside the Mazda CX-90 is a genuinely premium experience, especially within the $50,000-$60,000 price range. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, including supple Nappa leather on the first and second rows, and tasteful microsuede trim accents. The caramel-colored interior option, as featured in the test vehicle, exudes a rich and sophisticated ambiance. While the reviewer noted the microsuede’s slightly long nap as a minor point of criticism, the overall impression is one of exceptional quality and attention to detail.
Fit and finish are exemplary, with every touchpoint feeling befitting of a vehicle in this price bracket, and arguably exceeding expectations for the Mazda brand. Compared to the previous CX-9, the CX-90 represents a significant leap forward in interior refinement. While the Toyota Grand Highlander is a new competitor in the segment, the CX-90 sets a high bar for cabin quality that will be difficult to match. The interior design and material choices clearly aim to elevate the CX-90 beyond mainstream competitors and into the realm of luxury SUVs.
Interior shot of the Mazda CX-90 emphasizing the premium leather upholstery and seat design in the front row.
Practicality and Space: Family Needs Considered
The Mazda CX-90 offers generous space in the first two rows, ensuring comfort for both driver and passengers. However, the third row is acknowledged as being more suitable for children or shorter adults, particularly for longer journeys. While not class-leading in third-row space compared to rivals like the Grand Highlander, it remains functional for family duties. Cargo space with the third row folded is ample for everyday needs.
Technologically, the CX-90 is well-equipped, featuring a large 12-inch center screen that is generally intuitive to use via a rotary dial controller. Notably, the screen gains touchscreen functionality when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, enhancing smartphone integration. The vehicle is also packed with safety features, perhaps to the point of being overly sensitive with its alarm systems. Overall, the CX-90 balances passenger comfort and cargo capacity effectively, though families prioritizing maximum third-row space might want to cross-shop larger alternatives.
A dynamic shot of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S on a road, suggesting a review focused on driving performance.
PHEV Variant: A Step Backwards?
While the inline-six CX-90 impresses, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version receives a less enthusiastic assessment. According to the review, the CX-90 PHEV underwhelms, particularly when considering the premium positioning of the model. Fuel economy benefits are minimal if not regularly charged, achieving only marginally better MPG than the inline-six without plugging in. More significantly, the PHEV swaps the smooth inline-six for a four-cylinder engine, resulting in a powertrain that is described as coarse and lacking in high-speed oomph.
Furthermore, the PHEV’s operation is criticized for being clunky, especially at low speeds, with noticeable shudders and jerky transitions. The transmission is also described as less refined compared to the standard model. Despite potential fuel savings with regular charging, the reviewer strongly advises against the PHEV, citing the significant compromise in engine refinement and driving experience. For buyers drawn to the CX-90’s promise of premium performance, the PHEV variant appears to miss the mark.
Value and Verdict: A Strong Contender
The Mazda CX-90, especially in its inline-six configuration, presents a compelling value proposition. While a fully-loaded CX-90 can reach prices over $60,000, it still undercuts base models of luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, highlighting the value packed into the Mazda. Lower trims are available for under $50,000, making it competitive with mainstream three-row SUVs while offering a distinctly more premium experience.
The CX-90 surpasses traditional segment leaders like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander in terms of interior quality and driving satisfaction. The closest competitor, in the reviewer’s opinion, is the Genesis GV80, another SUV that blends luxury and value effectively. Ultimately, the Mazda CX-90 solidifies Mazda’s ability to compete across different vehicle segments, delivering a product that excels in both luxury and driving dynamics. For buyers seeking a premium three-row SUV experience without the top-tier luxury price tag, the Mazda CX-90 is a standout choice, provided they opt for the inline-six engine and avoid the less polished PHEV variant.
A detailed exterior shot of the 2024 Mazda CX-90, focusing on its side profile and wheel design.
Pros:
- Exceptional inline-six engine performance and refinement
- Luxurious and well-crafted interior
- Engaging driving dynamics for its class
Cons:
- Third-row space is not class-leading
- PHEV variant’s performance and refinement disappoint
Image highlighting the third-row seats of the 2024 Mazda CX-90, demonstrating the space available.
Close-up on the microsuede interior trim in the 2024 Mazda CX-90, showing the texture and material quality.
Driver’s eye view of the 2024 Mazda CX-90’s interior, emphasizing the cockpit layout and control accessibility.
Image showcasing the second-row seats and legroom in the 2024 Mazda CX-90 from a rear perspective.
View of the Mazda CX-90’s cargo area with the third-row seats folded down, illustrating the available space.
Another image focused on the third-row seating area of the 2024 Mazda CX-90, highlighting legroom and seat design.
Close-up of premium interior elements in the Mazda CX-90, possibly showcasing stitching or material textures.
Interior view of the Mazda CX-90 highlighting the seat design and interior trim materials in detail.
Dashboard and infotainment system of the 2024 Mazda CX-90, focusing on the technology interface.
Interior ambient lighting details in the Mazda CX-90, showcasing the mood and atmosphere inside the cabin.
Close-up on interior design elements of the Mazda CX-90, such as trim stitching or unique styling cues.
Action shot of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S in motion, likely taken during a driving review.
Detailed image of the Mazda CX-90’s gear shifter, possibly highlighting its design or electronic operation.
