Mazda has long been admired for injecting a dose of driving passion and premium aspirations into the mainstream car market. With the 2024 Mazda CX-90, they’re making a bold statement, stepping firmly into the full-size SUV arena with a vehicle that promises luxury, space, and engaging performance. But does the CX-90 live up to the hype? This in-depth review delves into the details, exploring what makes the CX-90 stand out and where it might fall short in a competitive segment.
Image: Front angle view of the Mazda CX-90 showcasing its stylish exterior design.
The Alluring Inline-Six Engine: A Masterstroke
At the heart of the Mazda CX-90’s appeal is its brand-new inline-six engine. Departing from the industry trend of downsized four-cylinders or ubiquitous V6s, Mazda has opted for a 3.3-liter inline-six, turbocharged and supplemented by a 48V mild-hybrid system. This engine configuration, historically favored by luxury brands like BMW, is renowned for its smoothness and balanced power delivery. In the CX-90, it’s a genuine showstopper.
The mild-hybrid system provides an electric boost at lower speeds, effectively eliminating turbo lag and contributing to a responsive and refined driving experience. The combined output of 340 horsepower propels this sizable SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk six seconds. Beyond performance, the engine also impresses with its efficiency. Achieving a respectable 24 MPG overall, it marks a 20% improvement over the previous CX-9’s four-cylinder engine, proving that power and efficiency can coexist. This sophisticated powertrain sets the CX-90 apart from many Japanese rivals who often rely on less refined V6 or four-cylinder setups.
Image: Close-up of the Mazda CX-90’s interior, highlighting the premium dashboard design and material quality.
Driving Dynamics: Engaging and Surprisingly Agile
Mazda’s “zoom-zoom” philosophy is alive and well in the CX-90. It delivers a driving experience that’s genuinely engaging, a rarity in the three-row SUV class. The steering is particularly noteworthy, offering a level of feel and responsiveness that rivals some sports cars. Handling is balanced and composed, far surpassing the dynamics of mainstream competitors like the Toyota Highlander.
While not a high-performance SUV in the vein of BMW M or Mercedes-AMG models, the CX-90 strikes an impressive balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. It evokes the spirit of the early BMW X5, with its confident road manners and communicative steering. The all-wheel-drive system further enhances grip and composure, allowing for confident cornering and power delivery. For drivers who appreciate an SUV that’s more than just a people-mover, the CX-90 offers a genuinely enjoyable driving experience.
Image: Side profile of the Mazda CX-90 Turbo S, emphasizing its sporty stance and wheel design.
Premium Interior: A Step Above the Mainstream
The interior of the Mazda CX-90 elevates the standard for three-row SUVs in its price range ($50,000-$60,000). The use of supple Nappa leather in the first and second rows, combined with tasteful microsuede accents, creates a genuinely luxurious ambiance. The caramel-colored interior trim option, as featured in this review, is particularly striking and refined.
While the reviewer notes that the microsuede on the doors and dashboard might have a slightly shaggy texture, the overall cabin is beautifully designed and meticulously assembled. The fit and finish are impressive, and the quality of materials throughout the cabin feels appropriate for its price point, and even punches above its weight class. Compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander, a key competitor, the CX-90’s interior sets a high bar for design and material quality.
Image: Interior shot of the Mazda CX-90 focusing on the dashboard, center console, and premium leather seating.
Space and Technology: Balancing Practicality with Modern Features
Space in the front and second rows of the CX-90 is generous, providing ample comfort for adults. However, the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips for adults. This is an area where rivals like the Grand Highlander may offer more generous accommodations. With the rear seats folded, cargo space is practical for everyday needs.
Technologically, the CX-90 is well-equipped. A 12-inch central display screen is visually appealing and mostly user-friendly, controlled by a rotary dial. Interestingly, the screen becomes touch-sensitive when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, offering versatile control options. The vehicle is also packed with safety features, perhaps even to a point of being overly intrusive with its numerous alerts.
Image: Mazda CX-90 Turbo S in motion, showcasing its dynamic design and road presence.
Minor Gripes: Gear Shifter and Interior Trim
While largely impressive, the CX-90 isn’t without minor flaws. The electronic gear selector is a point of contention, described as unintuitive and lacking in tactile feedback. The reviewer suggests practice is needed to become comfortable with its operation, highlighting it as a less-than-ideal design choice. Additionally, the previously mentioned microsuede trim, while generally appealing, is noted for having a slightly long nap, which detracts slightly from the overall premium feel in certain areas. Lastly, the abundance of safety alarms is mentioned as a potential annoyance for some drivers.
PHEV Variant: A Disappointing Alternative
Mazda also offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the CX-90, but this review strongly advises against it. The PHEV model swaps the smooth inline-six for a four-cylinder engine, resulting in a significant compromise in refinement and power delivery, particularly at higher speeds. Fuel economy benefits without regular charging are minimal, offering only a marginal improvement over the inline-six.
More concerning is the PHEV’s unrefined operation, especially at low speeds. Jerky transitions and a less-than-smooth transmission contribute to an unpolished driving experience. Mechanical noises in EV mode further detract from the overall refinement. Unless regular charging is a guaranteed part of your routine, the PHEV version is deemed a significant step down from the standard inline-six models.
Image: Detailed view of the Mazda CX-90’s front headlight and grille, emphasizing its sophisticated styling.
Final Verdict: A Strong Contender in the Luxury SUV Space
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a compelling entry into the three-row SUV market. It successfully blends Mazda’s signature driving dynamics with a genuinely luxurious interior and a potent, refined inline-six engine. While it may not offer the absolute maximum third-row space in the segment, it compensates with a driving experience and cabin ambiance that surpass many competitors, including established names like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Priced competitively, especially when considering the level of features and refinement, the CX-90 presents a strong value proposition, even undercutting base models of luxury SUVs like the BMW X5. The Genesis GV80 is highlighted as its closest rival in terms of overall appeal. However, it’s crucial to steer clear of the PHEV variant, which compromises the very qualities that make the standard CX-90 so desirable. Overall, the Mazda CX-90 reinforces Mazda’s ability to deliver vehicles that excel in multiple areas, making it a true all-rounder in the automotive landscape.
Pros:
- Exceptional inline-six engine
- Luxurious and well-crafted interior
- Engaging driving dynamics
Cons:
- Third-row space is limited compared to some rivals
- PHEV version is underwhelming
- Unconventional gear shifter
Image: View of the Mazda CX-90’s third-row seating, illustrating its space and design.
Image: Close-up on the Mazda CX-90’s interior suede trim, showcasing its texture and detailing.
Image: Wide angle view of the Mazda CX-90’s luxurious interior, highlighting the overall cabin layout.
Image: Rear seats of the Mazda CX-90, showcasing the legroom and seat design.
Image: Another view of the Mazda CX-90’s third-row, emphasizing its accessibility and space.
Image: Closer perspective of the Mazda CX-90’s third-row seating area.
Image: Interior of a Mazda CX-90 Premium Plus trim, showcasing upgraded features and materials.
Image: Front seats of the Mazda CX-90, highlighting the design and comfort features.
Image: Dashboard and infotainment screen of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 interior, as reviewed by The Road Beat.
Image: General view of the Mazda CX-90’s interior, showcasing the overall design and spaciousness.
Image: Detailed close-up of the Mazda CX-90’s interior materials and craftsmanship.
Image: Mazda CX-90 Turbo S model featured in a review by The Road Beat.
Image: Close-up of the Mazda CX-90’s gear shifter, highlighting its unconventional electronic design.
