THE 2024 MAZDA CX-90 IS PROOF THAT MAZDA IS SERIOUS ABOUT BEING A PREMIUM BRAND

EV Channels Review

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 marks a significant step for Mazda's premium aspirations, built on a new rear-drive biased platform and offering two distinct electrified powertrains. The reviewer highlights the evolutionary Kodo design language, noting it looks better in person than in photos, with premium touches like the Artic Red paint and available 21-inch wheels. Inside, the CX-90 impresses with a digital 12-inch instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and high-quality materials such as Napa leather and wood trim. The reviewer praises the inclusion of physical controls for climate and heated/ventilated seats, a digital rearview mirror, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the infotainment system's touchscreen functionality is limited to Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and only when stationary, requiring the use of the command controller otherwise. The second and third rows offer improved space compared to the CX-9, with captain's chairs and available heated/ventilated seats in the second row. Powertrain options include a 340 hp 3.3L inline-six with a 48V mild-hybrid system and a 323 hp plug-in hybrid variant with an estimated 30 miles of electric range. Both powertrains feature a new 8-speed automatic transmission with a multi-plate wet clutch instead of a torque converter. All-wheel drive is standard. While pricing is unconfirmed, the reviewer speculates a starting price in the mid-$40,000s, potentially reaching $60,000 for loaded models, positioning it against luxury competitors.