2025 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Canadian trim levels included GS-L, GS, GT, GT-P, and Signature, with pricing ranging from $48,846 to $67,886. The test vehicle in the U.S., equivalent to the mild hybrid’s Signature trim, featured extra-cost Soul Red paint, bringing the Canadian MSRP to $67,286. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Its sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the short front overhang, long hood, and rear-axle-focused cabin placement contributed to its athletic look.

Inside, the CX-90 continued its premium theme with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather with contrast stitching, and clearly marked switchgear. While some materials reflected its price, the cabin felt convincingly upscale. However, ergonomic issues were noted, such as a confusing electronic shifter and a counterintuitive climate panel. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to most midsize three-row crossover SUVs from mainstream brands.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S hardtop, encountered during a rental experience, featured a black-on-black-on-black colour scheme with dark grey wheels, which was less than ideal in a tropical climate. However, once behind the wheel with the windows down and overhead panels removed, the colour became less of a concern. In Canada, the Wrangler was offered in Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and Rubicon X trims, with prices ranging from $42,995 to $80,085. The rental Wrangler had a few options, including a $395 black paint upcharge, a $2,095 black hardtop, a $2,495 Convenience Group, and a $2,995 turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission, bringing the Canadian MSRP to $66,070.

Despite its price, the Wrangler's interior was functional rather than luxurious, with grey fabric dashboard trim, metallic accents, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Designed for rugged use, the Wrangler emphasized function over form. Its design, rooted in a World War II military vehicle, and its capability to traverse almost any terrain made it appealing despite its lack of sophistication compared to most new cars.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain was less refined than its design and materials suggested. The turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine, also used in the Mazda CX-70, produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in standard-output models. The high-output version, standard on GT-P and Signature trims, delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, which biased power to the rear wheels for better dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. It wasn't a true off-roader but provided 20.4 to 20.6 centimetres of ground clearance and standard hill descent control.

The CX-90's i-Stop function aimed to improve fuel economy, with ratings of 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres combined for the standard engine and 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version. The plug-in hybrid offered 42 kilometres of electric range and a 9.4 L/100 km combined rating once the battery was depleted. While the CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, especially shortly after engine start-up. Unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour, unwanted engine surge, and acceleration issues were noted. The CX-90 also suffered from noise and impact harshness, detracting from its upscale impression. However, its taut suspension provided a communicative and dynamic driving experience, especially in Normal mode.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler offered a standard 3.6-litre V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder produced 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, slightly less horsepower but more torque than the V6. The turbocharged engine felt livelier at higher elevations and was marginally more fuel-efficient, with a rating of 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined, compared to 12.2 L/100 km for the V6.

During a 300-kilometre evaluation, the four-cylinder Wrangler achieved an average fuel economy of 12.3 L/100 km with four occupants and air conditioning. The Wrangler's standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and generous approach and departure angles made it capable in various terrains. However, its three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA was a concern. The Wrangler's ride was rough, with a steady stream of jiggles and jolts, and its disconnected steering feel was disconcerting. While not taken off-roading during the test, previous experience with the Wrangler Rubicon demonstrated its impressive off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, despite its upscale materials, had some functional drawbacks. The three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin quickly, and front-seat ventilation was nearly as ineffective as the air conditioning. However, once cooled, the eight-way power-adjustable front seats were comfortable for long trips. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. A panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. However, limited seat-track travel and long rear doors made loading children challenging.

The CX-90's third row was best suited for children, with acceptable support for adults on shorter trips. Cargo space was practical, with 451 litres behind the third row, 1,155 litres with the third row folded, and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened. However, storage space was limited, with a shallow bin under the centre armrest and stingy door panel storage.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's high ground clearance and narrow door openings made entry and exit challenging. Step rails were available but could complicate access. Once inside, the front seats were comfortable, with cloth upholstery suitable for any climate. The Convenience Group option added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Wrangler seated five, but four were more comfortable, with adequate rear-seat legroom. However, taller passengers risked banging their knees on front seatback hooks. Storage space was limited, with small items often ending up in cupholders.

Cargo access was cumbersome, requiring the tailgate to swing open and the hardtop's rear window to lift. The four-door model offered 897 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,050 litres with the back seat folded. However, accessing the cargo area was challenging if parked close to another vehicle or wall.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a traditional design, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons on the centre console. Mazda's voice recognition system was hit or miss, and a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and Mazda’s Active Driving Display, which provided helpful data and blind-spot alerts.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio preparation. The touchscreen remained bright and easy to use, even with the roof panels removed. The Convenience Group pack added a 7-inch digital display between analog gauges, passive entry, remote engine starting, and rear parking sensors. Jeep Connect offered adventure guides and GPS trail logs for off-road navigation, ensuring the Wrangler was never lost.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of only four midsize, three-row, gas-powered SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The CX-90 PHEV earned five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, while gas-only models received four-star frontal-impact ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, a safe exit warning system, front cross-traffic alert, front parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the audible warning systems could be overwhelming.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler introduced standard side curtain airbags for front and rear seats, a significant safety upgrade. Advanced driver assistance systems were optional, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on most trims. Forward collision warning with automatic braking was standard on the Sahara trim. Adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlights were also available. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated the Wrangler Good for side-impact protection and moderate overlap frontal-impact tests, but it received a Marginal rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test.