By: Joshua Lee
July 6, 2023
It must be difficult for automakers to attract customers in the highly competitive SUV market now. You might not please everyone, as the requirements of each shopper are different, but introducing a new vehicle to the public can be quite exciting. The Mazda CX-9 will bow out after 2023, and what’s to replace their three-row crossover spot might just be the most premium-feeling Mazda product yet.
Mazda Canada has lent us their 2024 Mazda CX-90 MHEV Signature so we can determine whether this is a good replacement for their popular CX-9. This midsize three-row SUV comes in two versions: the turbocharged 3.3L inline 6-cylinder e-Skyactiv G engine with an integrated 48-volt mild-hybrid system that our tester has, or the 2.5L plug-in hybrid that has an electric-only range of 42KM. Lower MHEV trims get 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque from the 3.3L engine, but the GT-P and Signature have a high-output version that produces 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The CX-90 is quick for its size and accelerates briskly. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly as well. Mazda hasn’t forgotten about driving dynamics in their new AWD crossover; power delivery is rear-wheel biased for a sportier drive, and there’s good steering feel when you throw it into a corner. The SUV is also equipped with Kinematic Posture Control, which minimizes body roll while the double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension improve stability. The CX-90 also comes with four driving modes and can tow up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kilograms).
The Mazda CX-90 is 7″ longer in wheelbase, and the overall length is 2″ longer than the CX-9. While the design is new, we do like that there’s still some familiarity with its predecessor. The CX-90 looks more elegant with its new grille and LED headlamp design. The chrome details add a nice touch to the curvier body, and the longer hood gives the SUV some brawn. Artisan Red Metallic is absolutely gorgeous, and pairing that with the 21″ alloy wheels makes the SUV look more expensive than it is.
On the inside, the CX-90 impresses with how upmarket the cabin is designed. Our model is fitted with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a panoramic moonroof, and the optional Windsor Tan Nappa leather upholstery with quilting details on the first two rows of seats, suede material on the door panels and dash, and a black headliner. We like the uncluttered layout; the 12.3″ driver’s display is easy to read, separate climate controls are within reach, and the 12.3″ centre display is controlled by a rotary knob. The CX-90 can recognize you when you enable the Driver Personalization System; it adjusts your seating position, head-up display, and side mirrors based on your height.
In the Signature trim, the CX-90 is a six-passenger SUV; the second row features its own centre console armrest, sunshades, and is heated and ventilated. Third-row passengers might feel a little cramped in legroom as the second row sits quite low, and with that console armrest, you won’t be able to stretch out. Cargo capacity is 451L (44L more than the CX-9) behind the third row and expands to 2129L (112L more than the CX-9) with the second and third row folded down.
The CX-90 comes with parking sensors and a 360-degree camera with a see-through view, making sure you won’t hit anything. Other safety features on the CX-90, such as front and rear auto braking, blind spot assist, lane keeping, and lane departure assist, all help make the drive more comfortable. The adaptive cruise control works well, with clear graphics on the driver’s display indicating the distance kept in front of other cars and detecting any obstacles.
Mazda Canada rates the CX-90’s fuel economy as 10.3L/100KM city, 8.5L/100KM highway, for a combined 9.5L/100KM. The 48-volt mild hybrid system doesn’t give you significant EV range as its purpose is to improve fuel efficiency in idle to low-speed operations. We got 9.1L/100KM for our duration.
The Mazda CX-90 MHEV starts at $45,900 for the GS, $49,300 for the GS-L, $55,350 for the GT, $59,300 for the GT-P, and $63,300 for the Signature. Adding on the optional paint finish and interior colour, our Signature comes to $75,007.71, including taxes and other fees.
The Mazda CX-90 represents a glow-up. It’s not just a successor to the CX-9, but a smooth introduction to Mazda’s outlook on moving upmarket. This latest offering is bold but doesn’t feel harsh in any way. The CX-90 is wonderfully styled, has an inviting interior, and maintains a sharp driving performance that you wouldn’t expect from a three-row SUV. The Signature trim is quite indulgent, but you can go a trim level down or two for seven or eight-passenger configurations. If you really wanted EV range, then the PHEV models would be fine. The crown for Mazda’s new flagship is well deserved.
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