2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 presented itself as a formidable contender in the luxury SUV market, challenging the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz with its sophisticated design and high-quality materials. The exterior boasted an imposing presence with its large grille, wide-set front end, and wheels ranging from 18 to 21 inches, all accentuated by tasteful chrome trim. Inside, the top-tier models offered an interior that rivalled luxury brands, featuring brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere. Despite the range of trims, all models benefited from Mazda's stylish design language and comfortable layout, making the CX-90 a compelling choice for those seeking luxury without the exorbitant price tag.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 continued to impress with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. The sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the cabin's placement over the rear axle contributed to a low, athletic stance. Inside, the interior was elegantly rendered with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, although some materials reflected the vehicle's price point. However, the ergonomics left room for improvement, with a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these drawbacks, the 2025 CX-90 exuded sophistication, standing out among midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 marked a significant transformation with the introduction of two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system. The base turbo I6 delivered 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the upgraded version in the GT-P and Signature trims offered an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, with three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Off-Road. The CX-90 Signature trim, in particular, delivered an exhilarating exhaust note and exceptional handling, reminiscent of Mazda's MX-5, making it a standout in its class.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, however, faced challenges with its standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain, which lacked the refinement expected from an inline-six engine. The standard-output models produced 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the high-output version offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). The eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system aimed to enhance driving dynamics, but the drivetrain's refinement was lacking, especially during cold starts. The CX-90's ride and handling remained impressive, but issues with power delivery, transmission behaviour, and noise isolation detracted from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the CX-90 maintained its reputation as a dynamic family hauler, with a firm suspension and communicative steering.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered a range of seating configurations, with lower trims accommodating eight passengers and mid-level trims featuring captain's chairs for seven. The Turbo Signature trim provided an exclusive six-seat layout, enhancing cargo space slightly. Total cargo capacity measured 2,129 litres with the two-seater third row, while models with a three-across back seat offered 2,101 litres. Although the CX-90 improved upon the CX-9's capacity, it still fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Clever storage options, comfortable seats, and a panoramic sunroof contributed to a pleasant interior experience.

In the 2025 Mazda CX-90, the Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to maintain a comfortable temperature. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. The third row, while accessible, was best suited for children on longer trips. Storage space was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, shallow bin, and small trays under the load floor. Cargo capacity measured 451 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,129 litres with all seats folded, which was small for the segment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 prioritized safety by minimizing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, which relied on a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to reduce distractions, the system's quirks often led to frustration. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software that adjusted settings based on facial recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available in higher trims, providing a more user-friendly experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 maintained a traditional dashboard layout, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen in the Signature trim. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect platform required the use of a rotary knob. The voice recognition system fell short of modern expectations, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was anticipated in future models. The 12-speaker Bose audio system delivered a rewarding listening experience, and the Active Driving Display provided helpful information.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came equipped with i-Activsense, Mazda's suite of advanced driver assistance systems, as standard. This included features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The top-spec Signature trim also offered cruising and traffic support, enhancing the vehicle's safety capabilities. Although crash test ratings were not yet available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well based on the accolades received by the previous CX-9 model.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA for the PHEV model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced features like emergency lane-keeping assist and a surround-view camera system. While the Cruising and Traffic Support system had some limitations, the CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, providing effective lane-keeping technologies and comprehensive safety features.