Mazda has significantly enhanced its offerings in recent years, and the 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus exemplifies this evolution. My week-long experience with the CX-90 served as an excellent comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle, taking me from busy city streets and highways to winding mountain roads at high elevations.
Exterior
The exterior of the CX-90 boasts a level of sophistication that rivals more luxurious brands, marking its shift towards the upscale market. Its streamlined design is not only visually striking but also practical. The elegant slope of the hood extends smoothly into the grille, forming an integrated front fascia. Meanwhile, the roofline gradually tapers into the rear, boosting its aerodynamic qualities. This design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also indicates the spaciousness inside. During our ski outing to Flagstaff, the abundant cargo room and second-row captain’s chairs facilitated effortless packing of our equipment while ensuring everyone’s comfort.
Interior
Upon entering the CX-90, one is greeted by an interior that appears both polished and intentionally crafted. The white Nappa leather seats and high-quality materials instantly elevate the cabin’s atmosphere, representing a significant improvement over earlier models. Mazda’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the cohesive layout and premium finishes, resulting in an inviting yet functional environment.
USB-C ports are conveniently located throughout the vehicle, including in the third row, enhancing passenger comfort during long trips by allowing devices to remain charged. Initially uncertain about accommodating all our belongings, I found that folding down the third row yielded an unexpectedly generous amount of cargo space. The second-row captain’s chairs not only add to passenger comfort but also create a more expansive interior feel. These seats come equipped with heating capabilities, proving beneficial on cold mountain drives, while the third-row occupants enjoy dedicated AC vents, keeping all passengers comfortable regardless of their seating position.
The 12.3-inch display screen in the 2025 Mazda CX-90 marks a substantial upgrade from previous versions, featuring improved resolution and a more streamlined interface that is responsive and user-friendly. The enhanced camera system provides clearer views and higher-quality images, facilitating easier parking and navigation in tight spots. New features like a 360-degree surround-view monitor and a high-definition rearview camera further boost convenience and safety.
Mazda has also updated the infotainment system software, enabling wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allows for seamless smartphone connectivity. The navigation system is more detailed and easier to use, and natural voice recognition enables hands-free control of various functions. It’s clear that Mazda is setting new standards for technology in vehicles while keeping their pricing competitive, delivering exceptional value for these high-end features.
Engine and Transmission
Under the hood, the CX-90 is equipped with a robust 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that generates 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
This engine provides smooth acceleration and responsive performance, making it adept in both urban driving and highway cruising. Various drive modes enhance versatility; Normal mode is optimized for fuel efficiency, while Sport mode delivers an additional power boost for spirited driving. During my trip to Flagstaff, the CX-90 managed light off-road trails with ease, and the off-road mode significantly improved traction and stability. While not tailored for extreme off-roading, it performs well on unpaved paths and moderate terrains.
Driver Experience
The driving experience in the CX-90 successfully combines comfort with agility. Its precise handling and smooth acceleration inspire confidence, whether navigating city streets or open freeways. When faced with an unexpected obstacle—a shovel that had fallen onto the freeway—the vehicle’s capabilities became apparent; engaging Sport mode provided the necessary power to swiftly and safely navigate around the hazard, impressing both myself and my passengers.
Safety
Safety is a key focus for the CX-90. The lane-keeping assist feature subtly adjusts steering to counteract unintended lane drift, while the comprehensive safety detection system minimizes blind spots, boosting overall driving confidence. The design of the vehicle also ensures excellent visibility, contributing to a secure driving experience. Additionally, the array of USB ports throughout the cabin meets contemporary connectivity demands, ensuring all passengers can keep their devices charged during long excursions.
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus epitomizes Mazda’s dedication to crafting vehicles that fuse luxury, performance, and practicality. Its sophisticated design, upscale interior, powerful engine, and extensive safety features render it an attractive option for those in search of a premium SUV experience at a competitive price point. With a starting MSRP of $56,450.
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