Test-Driving the Mazda CX-90: A Versatile Family Hauler for Outdoor Adventures
**Packing for the Adventure**
Our family’s annual summer camping trip in Michigan’s untamed Upper Peninsula has long been a tradition. For the past decade, we have relied on various vehicles to transport us to this rugged and picturesque destination. This year, it was the 2024 Mazda CX-90’s turn to showcase its capabilities as a family hauler. Packing for the trip was a breeze, with the CX-90 comfortably accommodating all our camping gear, including a cooler, sleeping bags, fishing poles, a large tent, and boxes of food. Despite the substantial load, we still had a clear view out of the back window, a rarity in such adventures. The Mazda proved to be up to the challenge.
**A Comfortable and Engaging Drive**
Early the next morning, we embarked on our journey Up North. The CX-90’s performance on the highway was commendable, with its solid and quiet cruising capabilities. The steering offered a weighty and precise feel, setting it apart from other SUVs in its class. What made the long drive even more enjoyable were the advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring that provided added safety and convenience. These features are increasingly expected in vehicles at this price point and played a crucial role during our road trip.
**Fuel Efficiency and Performance**
While finding an EV charger in the remote parts of the Upper Peninsula proved to be a challenge, we relied on running the CX-90 on premium fuel. Surprisingly, we achieved an average fuel efficiency of 24.5 mpg, with one leg of our journey reaching an impressive 26.7 mpg, the second-best figure in the CX-90’s four-month Autoblog career. However, I must note that despite the hybrid powertrain’s impressive specs, including 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, the acceleration felt somewhat uneven due to its partnership with the eight-speed automatic transmission. I still favor Mazda’s turbo straight six-cylinder engine over this hybrid variant.
**Braving the Wilderness**
Arriving at our campsite, we spent three cool and wet nights sleeping on the ground, followed by four sunny and hot days engaged in outdoor activities like swimming and fishing. The Mazda CX-90 not only endured the rough conditions but also ended up coated in dirt and sand both inside and out. As expected, this camping trip put our test car to the ultimate test. After returning, I had to spend a significant portion of my Monday morning vacuuming out the sand and dog fur from every nook and cranny. It was a reminder of just how much we put the car through its paces.
**A Standout among U.P. People Haulers**
Comparing the CX-90 to past long-termers like the VW Golf GTI, Chrysler Pacifica hybrid, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Sienna, the Mazda held its own. While minivans like the Chrysler and Toyota offer unsurpassed functionality due to their layout, the CX-90’s sporty three-row crossover design impressed me. Although the Palisade had a more inviting interior ambiance, the CX-90’s superior fuel efficiency puts it on par with its competitor in my book. The Forester excelled in its own right, serving as a reliable companion during a shorter hunting trip and providing a comfortable ride home after a chilly weekend in the woods. As for the Golf GTI, it proved to be a real-life clown car, packed to the brim with three adults and an abundance of belongings.
**A Reliable Performer in Real-World Tests**
Overall, the Mazda CX-90 exceeded expectations, delivering on its promise as a versatile family hauler. Despite its occasional quirks in terms of driving dynamics, it provided an enjoyable experience on our adventure. It successfully passed the U.P. Family Camping Test, ticking all the boxes that matter. The only remaining challenge is ensuring that the sand and dirt are thoroughly cleaned out by the end of summer, a small price to pay for the memories made during our unforgettable trip.