The 2024 Mazda CX-90: A Beautiful and Upscale SUV
When you think of Mazda, small and light sports cars likely come to mind. However, Mazda’s most important and pivotal car is actually a three-row family SUV – the CX-90. It is the first Mazda model in the country to be built on the brand’s new rear-drive-based platform and features new, in-house powertrains that will likely be used in other models. As a key part of Mazda’s best-selling product lines, its SUVs, the CX-90 holds a significant place in the company’s lineup. In this article, we will delve into our experience with the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Premium Plus plug-in hybrid to determine whether Mazda’s new platform and hybrid powertrain are up to par.
The CX-90 boasts a sleek and stylish design that sets it apart from mainstream three-row SUVs. Thanks to its new platform, it offers rear-drive dynamics and classic rear-drive proportions, with a long nose and front wheels pushed far forward. The simple and handsome exterior, combined with its distinct appearance, gives the CX-90 a premium feel that’s reminiscent of high-end luxury vehicles.
Moving inside, the interior of the CX-90 continues the premium vibes. The dash is uncluttered and features high-quality switchgear. Notably, the absence of piano black plastic adds to the overall elegance. While the color scheme may be a bit plain, our Premium Plus model featured brassy bronze accents in the seats, which added a touch of flair. The cabin is reasonably spacious, although the third row is a bit cramped. In terms of luggage space, the CX-90 falls somewhere between mainstream and upscale SUVs. It may not offer the most cargo space, but it’s certainly better than many of its competitors.
One of the more polarizing features of the CX-90 is its infotainment system. Some praise the physical dial for its ease of use, while others wish for a more intuitive touchscreen interface. However, the flexibility of using the CX-90 as a giant backup battery is worth noting. While it may not provide as much power as full electric vehicles, the 1,500-watt socket in the back is incredibly useful in a pinch.
When it comes to driving dynamics, the CX-90 stays true to Mazda’s sporty heritage. The ride is on the firmer side, which minimizes body lean and allows for confident handling. The steering is precise, quick, and has a weighty and progressive feel. Overall, the CX-90 offers a fairly neutral driving experience, putting the “sport” in sport utility vehicle. However, the heavy steering can make navigating parking lots and slow-speed maneuvers quite tiring. While the commitment to driving enjoyment is admirable, some may prefer a bit more comfort for day-to-day driving.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the plug-in hybrid powertrain. On paper, it boasts an impressive 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. When in Sport mode, the engine runs all the time, delivering peppy performance and solid throttle response. However, for most drivers, the EV and Normal modes are the go-to options as they prioritize electric driving. The CX-90 has a quoted electric range of 26 miles, which is fairly usable. However, running on electric power alone means sacrificing horsepower, resulting in sluggish acceleration. Additionally, some testers found the transition from electric to gasoline power to be less than smooth. The new eight-speed automatic transmission, with additional gears compared to other Mazdas, adds complexity and leads to some hunting and awkward shifting. This can be uncomfortable and unsettling for passengers.
In terms of fuel economy, the CX-90 comes close to its EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. During our testing, we achieved an average of 24.56 mpg, which is not terrible but could be better for a hybrid. Long road trips were a significant part of our driving experience, and the benefits of the electric range were diminished by the miles relying on the gasoline engine. This highlights the fact that plug-in hybrids are most beneficial for daily commuting and shorter trips. If you’re often on the road for long distances, the advantages of the hybrid powertrain become less pronounced.
However, it is worth mentioning that the CX-90 is not solely available with the plug-in hybrid powertrain. Mazda also offers a turbocharged straight-six engine in two outputs. This engine provides a smooth and punchy driving experience, and the eight-speed transmission handles it better than the hybrid powertrain. For those who prioritize performance and a more seamless driving experience, the conventional six-cylinder twin may be the more appealing option.
In conclusion, our time with the 2024 Mazda CX-90 was a mix of positive and negative experiences. It is a beautiful and upscale SUV that stands out from its competitors. The driving dynamics, steering, and handling are excellent, as expected from Mazda. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain needs refinement, and its efficiency may be underwhelming for some drivers. Nevertheless, once Mazda addresses these issues, the CX-90 has the potential to be a highly appealing and enjoyable SUV that offers more than just a spacious interior.
