About since its global debut, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is making a strong impact. It is constructed on Mazda’s fresh extensive platform and the three-row crossbreed signifies the company’s recent flagship vehicle with broader, longer, and more assertive dimensions. This presents a fresh appearance for Mazda and based on my experience with the new PHEV version equipped with the Premium Plus Package, I trust this will be a strong rival in its category. There are numerous aspects to admire about the CX-90; the external design is striking and possesses considerable attraction. I also appreciated the driving experience and the comfort of the interior. The fuel efficiency was excellent and the interior has been thoughtfully designed. It resembles a far more expensive European style and offers great value for money.
2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus
External
The CX-90’s external design deviates from conventional Mazda styles, leaning more towards the sophistication expected from high-end European or Asian brands. The Rhodium White finish enhances its refined profile, with the 21-inch alloy wheels contributing to its imposing stance. The sleek lines and contemporary design details give the CX-90 a unique and upscale appearance. The CX-90 garners attention in a positive manner, and several strangers inquired about the make and model.
Interior
The Interior of the CX-90 PHEV boasts numerous appealing features, which is predominantly why I would endorse the Premium Plus Trim. The Black Nappa Leather seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, and shift knob give it a sophisticated and opulent appearance. The 2nd row Captain’s Chairs are a welcome addition, much appreciated by passengers. The vehicle provides ample storage space and Mazda has ensured there are plentiful outlets for charging USB type C and standard devices. No more competing for outlets. The CX-90 is geared for enjoyment and includes a 12-volt power outlet, 150-Watt accessory power outlet, and a 1500-Watt accessory outlet. Upon observing the interior of the CX-90 as we readied for our road trip to Flagstaff, I was confident that no one would complain about the journey or fight over outlets, and I was correct!
The Premium plus includes the larger 12.3-inch entirely digital LCD meter and color center display, an added advantage with the Premium Plus level trim. The instrument gauge design is uncluttered, easy to read, and the heads-up display is useful. It would be great to see the incorporation of the speed limit into the heads-up display at some point. The brand new CX-90 kicks off strongly with the interior, and I am eager to see where Mazda goes with this in upcoming models.
Engine and Transmission
The core of the CX-90 PHEV is the efficient e-SKYACTIV®-PHEV: 2.5L engine and 68 kW electric motor, with the complete system producing 323 hp. I didn’t truly notice until the journey back from Flagstaff, but I anticipated needing to refuel at about the 75% mark on the way home. I kept monitoring the fuel, and I was pleasantly surprised by the efficiency of the EV segment of the engine; we didn’t have to stop at all. In fact, I had 90 gallons left. The PHEV achieves an impressive combined 56 MPGe.
Driving Experience
Driving the CX-90 in various conditions, from mountainous terrains with snow and rain to regular city roads, allowed me to thoroughly test its real capabilities. The vehicle’s off-road mode proved useful on some snowy mountain asphalt/rough road leading up to Snowbowl Ski resort. The vehicle handles different terrains well, and I found it comfortable for the over 3-hour road trip home after a full day on the mountain.
2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus Flagstaff Adventure
Safety
Mazda’s dedication to safety is evident in the CX-90, with features such as advanced rain-sensing windshield wipers and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Here is a partial list of the safety features as follows:
- Dynamic Stability Control35 with Traction Control System and Trailer Stability Assist
- Rear View Monitor21 (dynamic guide lines)
- Roll Stability Control36
- Hill Launch Assist37
- Blind Spot Monitoring23
- Blind Spot Assist44
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert23
- Lane-keep Assist24
- Lane Departure Warning System25
- Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist, Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist40
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go9 and Auto Speed Limit Assist
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear seat alert
- Vehicle Exit Warning26
- 360º View Monitor45 with see through view
- Front and rear parking sensors23
- Driver Attention Alert27
Conclusion
Mazda demonstrates with the introduction of the CX-90 that it is capable of delivering a high-quality, larger SUV that is competitive in its class. The PHEV offers great value for the MSRP and I believe it can appeal to a wide range of drivers, especially families seeking good fuel efficiency, passenger space, and stylish design. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV starts at an MSRP of $49,945, and my test vehicle with options and the Premium Plus Trim came in at an MSRP of $58,920.
For additional information on the CX-90 and all things Mazda, visit the following link:
https://www.mazdausa.com/vehicles/cx-90
