The Mazda CX-90 has entered a crowded SUV market promising a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. With its sleek design and focus on a premium driving experience, it's natural to wonder if it lives up to the hype and whether it truly earns the title of a "good car." Evaluating its reputation requires a deep dive into its performance, reliability, features, and how it stacks up against the competition.

First Impressions: What Makes the CX-90 Stand Out?

Mazda has been steadily climbing the ranks in terms of perceived quality, and the CX-90 is a significant step in that direction. It distinguishes itself from many other three-row SUVs with its refined styling, both inside and out. The Kodo design language translates beautifully to this larger vehicle, offering an alternative to the boxier, more utilitarian designs often found in this segment.

Beyond aesthetics, Mazda has placed a strong emphasis on the driving experience. The CX-90 boasts a new platform and engine options, including an inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology. This combination is designed to deliver a smooth, responsive, and engaging driving experience – a characteristic often associated with Mazda vehicles.

Under the Hood: Performance and Powertrain Options

One of the most significant aspects of the CX-90 is its powertrain lineup. Mazda offers several options, including:

  • 3.3-liter Turbocharged Inline-Six (Standard): This engine delivers a robust 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.
  • 3.3-liter Turbocharged Inline-Six (High Output): Stepping up, this version boosts the power to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (when using premium fuel). Both inline-six options feature a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that enhances fuel efficiency and provides smoother start-stop functionality.
  • 2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): For those seeking greater fuel efficiency and electric driving capabilities, the PHEV variant combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8 kWh battery pack, delivering 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque combined. It offers around 26 miles of all-electric range.

The inline-six engines, in particular, have garnered praise for their smoothness, responsiveness, and satisfying engine note. The mild-hybrid system provides a noticeable boost in low-end torque and contributes to improved fuel economy compared to traditional V6 engines. The PHEV option provides the best of both worlds with electric driving for shorter trips and gasoline power for longer journeys.

Inside the Cabin: Comfort, Tech, and Features

The CX-90's interior is where Mazda's pursuit of a more premium experience truly shines. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and a focus on detail. Depending on the trim level, you can expect features like:

  • Nappa Leather Upholstery: Provides a luxurious and comfortable seating experience.
  • Heated and Ventilated Seats: Enhances comfort in various weather conditions.
  • Panoramic Sunroof: Creates a bright and airy cabin.
  • Advanced Technology Features: A 12.3-inch central display, a digital instrument cluster, and a premium audio system are available.

The CX-90 also offers a range of advanced safety features, including:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
  • Lane Keep Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
  • Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision.

While the technology is impressive, some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system can take some getting used to, particularly the rotary dial controller. However, the overall user experience is generally positive, and the system offers a wide range of features.

Space and Practicality: How Well Does it Handle Passengers and Cargo?

As a three-row SUV, the CX-90 needs to deliver on space and practicality. The vehicle offers seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration.

  • Passenger Space: The front and second rows offer ample space for adults. The third row, while usable, is best suited for children or smaller adults on longer trips.
  • Cargo Space: With all three rows in place, cargo space is limited. However, folding down the third row significantly expands the cargo area. The CX-90 offers competitive cargo space compared to other vehicles in its class.

One potential drawback is the relatively high cargo floor, which can make loading and unloading heavier items more challenging. However, the power-folding third-row seats (available on some trims) make it easier to configure the cargo area to your needs.

Reliability and Ownership Experience: What Owners Are Saying

While the CX-90 is a relatively new model, early reports suggest that it is generally reliable. However, like any new vehicle, there have been some reported issues, particularly with the infotainment system and some of the advanced driver-assistance features.

  • Owner Feedback: Online forums and reviews provide a mixed bag of experiences. Some owners rave about the CX-90's driving dynamics, luxurious interior, and overall value proposition. Others have reported minor issues that required dealer visits.
  • Warranty Coverage: Mazda offers a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This coverage provides some peace of mind for new owners.

It's important to remember that reliability can vary from vehicle to vehicle, and it's always a good idea to research potential issues and read owner reviews before making a purchase.

How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?

The CX-90 competes in a highly competitive segment that includes popular models like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.

  • Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: These models are known for their spacious interiors, value-packed features, and attractive styling. The CX-90 offers a more premium driving experience and a more upscale interior, but it may not be as spacious or as affordable.
  • Honda Pilot: The Pilot is a reliable and practical choice with a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. The CX-90 offers a more refined driving experience and more advanced technology.
  • Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is a fuel-efficient and reliable choice with a strong reputation. The CX-90 offers a more engaging driving experience and a more luxurious interior.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value a premium driving experience, a luxurious interior, and distinctive styling, the CX-90 is a strong contender. If you prioritize space, value, and proven reliability, other models might be a better fit.

Potential Drawbacks: What to Watch Out For

While the CX-90 has many positive attributes, it's essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:

  • Infotainment System: As mentioned earlier, the infotainment system can take some getting used to. Some users may find the rotary dial controller less intuitive than a touchscreen.
  • Third-Row Space: The third row is not as spacious as some competitors, making it less comfortable for adults on long trips.
  • Cargo Floor Height: The high cargo floor can make loading and unloading heavy items more challenging.
  • New Model Quirks: Being a relatively new model, the CX-90 may experience some teething issues that are not yet fully resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the Mazda CX-90 a reliable car? Early reports are promising, but it's still a relatively new model. Time will tell how it holds up long-term.
  • How much does the Mazda CX-90 cost? Pricing varies depending on the trim level and options, but it generally starts in the mid-,000 range.
  • Is the Mazda CX-90 good on gas? The inline-six engines offer decent fuel economy for their size, and the PHEV version provides excellent fuel efficiency with its electric driving capabilities.
  • How many passengers can the Mazda CX-90 seat? The CX-90 can seat up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration.
  • Does the Mazda CX-90 have all-wheel drive? Yes, all CX-90 models come standard with all-wheel drive.

Final Verdict

The Mazda CX-90 is a compelling option in the three-row SUV segment. It offers a unique blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, making it a strong contender for buyers who value a more engaging driving experience and a more upscale interior. While potential drawbacks exist, the CX-90's strengths make it a vehicle worth considering. If you're looking for a three-row SUV that stands out from the crowd, the CX-90 is definitely worth a test drive.