After bidding farewell to the CX-9 this year, Mazda welcomed the all-new 2023 CX-90 to its lineup, which ushers in a new era of luxury and performance in the full-size crossover SUV segment. It follows in the tracks of the smaller CX-50 that replaced the CX-5.
Best known for its small rotary engine technology, Mazda has gradually inched forward to becoming a premier automaker, producing vehicles of all makes and sizes. The new CX-90 is a testament to its evolution, innovation, design, and performance.
Available in 8, 7, and 6-seat configurations, the CX-90 is larger than the CX-9 it replaces, enabling a more comprehensive range of family needs. It also makes a powerful statement in the full-size SUV segment with its new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine and 2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in-hybrids.
Power: The new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine in the 2023 Mazda CX-90 is augmented by a 48-volt hybrid system. The powertrain is good for 280 horsepower in non-S trims and 340 in S trims. All models have standard all-wheel drive with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Models/Price: The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offers eight different configurations that include the Mazda CX-90 Select ($40,970), Preferred ($44,820), Preferred Plus ($47,275), Premium ($50,275), S ($53,125), Premium Plus ($54,325), S Premium ($57,825), and S Premium Plus ($61,325).
PHEV Model: The CX-90’s PHEV generates 323 horsepower with a four-cylinder compared to 340 horsepower from the six-cylinder in the upper-end models, and it gets more power than the 280 hp in the CX-90 base models. Although the PHEV model can run all-electric for about 26 miles, or 490 miles, on combined fuel and electric, the engine can also help charge the battery while driving to help achieve additional range.
The CX-90 S Premium Plus I tested was a beast on the highway and city streets with its precise engineering and powerful turbocharged performance. The S Premium Plus model included the 340-hp inline-six that delivered an exhilarating experience on the open road. This top-tier engine’s seamless acceleration and abundant torque make highway driving an absolute pleasure. Whether I was passing other vehicles, merging onto highways, or cruising at high speeds, the 340-hp inline-six was effortless and dominant.
Plush materials and Nappa leather surround the inside cabin in the upper-level trims, with room for up to eight passengers. The lower trims are less upscale with fabric upholstery. Interior features include a 10.3- or 12.3-inch display that is nestled into the dashboard and controls the infotainment, navigation, and other tasks via a click wheel on the CX-90’s center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the lower trims feature a 7.0-inch digital gauge display and an eight-speaker stereo system or the optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Economy: The EPA has rated the CX-90 for up to 24 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. For more information about the CX-90’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
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