2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing. The U.S. test vehicle arrived in the new-for-2024 Suna trim, featuring exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Mazda made several updates, including improved fuel economy for the base engine, the addition of wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in select trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a base engine with 187 horsepower and a Turbo model with up to 256 horsepower, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $35,476 to $48,276, including fees.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, presented a more luxurious appearance with lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance gave it a premium look. Inside, the CX-90 featured an elegantly designed interior with Nappa leather, polished metallic trim, and clearly marked switchgear. However, some design-related complaints arose, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these issues, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs. The test vehicle, equivalent to the Signature trim, came with extra-cost Soul Red paint, bringing the Canadian MSRP to $67,286.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the revs to build before unleashing the torque. However, it wasn't particularly fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km, and observed consumption of 10.3 L/100 km. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and the frame was stiffened for responsive handling. It featured Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, enhancing cornering and minimizing body motions. The CX-5 offered excellent outward visibility and a confident driving experience, with a towing capacity of up to 900 kilograms.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90's standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain wasn't as refined as expected. The standard-output engine produced 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the high-output version delivered 319 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. The power flowed through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90 offered various driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour, especially shortly after engine start-up. Despite these issues, the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, with a firm and communicative suspension.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with redesigned seats offering comfort and support. The interior was comfortable for four adults, though it was among the smaller models in its segment. The rear seat provided good support, and passengers enjoyed rear air conditioning vents and a centre fold-down armrest with cupholders. The CX-5's cabin design and quality elevated it above most mass-market rivals, with a cargo area of 871 litres behind the back seat and a maximum of 1,680 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, in Signature trim, included Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system was slow to cool the cabin. The CX-90 offered a panoramic sunroof and comfortable second-row captain's chairs, but the long rear doors could make loading children challenging. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's cargo space was 451 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,155 litres with the third row folded and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens in favour of traditional switchgear for various controls. However, it offered a setting for touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons on the centre console. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting and other features, while a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system was standard in the Suna trim.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring knob and button navigation. The CX-90's voice recognition system was not up to modern standards, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, with higher trims adding advanced systems like steering assist and emergency lane-keeping assist. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though some features, like the speed reduction in curves, could be irritating.