2024 Mazda CX-90 S Premium Plus Is New Flagship SUV

Mazda North American Operations proudly unveils the groundbreaking 2024 Mazda CX-90, a monumental addition to their lineup of crossover SUVs. As the new flagship model, this upscale three-row not only embodies Mazda's engineering prowess with a new expansive rear-wheel-drive-based platform but also sets new standards for driving dynamics and electrified powertrains. With the use of the rear-wheel-drive-biased large vehicle platform, it is placed into the brand's internal Large Product Group category. According to Jeff Guyton, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, the CX-90 addresses many of the weaknesses of the CX-9 such as its small interior space

CX-90 Firsts

For the North American buyer market, the CX-90 will be the first Mazda production model to offer buyers not one but two hybrid powertrain options. In addition to the hybrid distinction, the other first for the CX-90 will now be the largest vehicle in the Mazda fleet with an all-new expansive platform. The first hybrid, the M Hrbrid Boost, is a mild hybrid version, also known as a power-assist or battery-assist hybrid vehicle or BAHV. BAHVs are powertrains that have a gas-powered engine in combination with a motor/generator allowing either power source to run the vehicle together or independently. This type of hybrid combination helps supplement the gas engine in low-speed situations or handle the demands of engine start/stop functionality providing real-world MPG savings of 1-4 gallons on average compared to a full hybrid. This hybrid is recharged by a belt-powered generator-motor unit driven off the engine and a regenerative braking system that captures dissipated heat and converts it into power for the vehicle. The second hybrid version offered to CX-90 buyers will be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. PHEV powertrain has a larger battery pack than an all-electric vehicle (EV) but will still be charged from your home, work or anywhere there is a charge station. This system has been said to be more efficient and have power/fuel costs than using only the onboard generator.

Press Loan

My press loan for the week was the groundbreaking e-Skyactiv G 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six gasoline engine. This powerplant, coupled with the M-Hybrid Boost system, creates an exhilarating 340 horsepower. The torque delivery is equally impressive at 369 lb-ft, ensuring great acceleration and on-road when entering highways and freeways. The CX-90 powertrain was paired with Mazda's all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was purposely designed and built for large platform electrified SUVs. The multi-speed automatic gearbox, without a torque converter, achieves smooth and direct acceleration while improving drivetrain efficiency. The week I had CX-90 we set out on an adventure to look at lake houses, so we had an almost four round trip ride in the CX-90. During our drive, we had everything from touring lakeside neighborhoods to winding highway roads to playing leapfrog on the Texas Interstate. The CX-90 easily blended both power and efficiency showcasing Mazda's commitment to a greener and more thrilling driving experience now and in the future.

Interior Excellence

The new Mazda CX-90 interior redefines excellence with its blend of high-performance aesthetics and world-class refinement. Once you climb in you will see this new 3-row SUV offers a spacious haven for families and individuals alike. The interior design engineers did a great job of melding the expansive dashboard by seamlessly integrating vents and chrome trim, resulting in a sleek, modern appearance. Also, the dash features a distinctive fabric treatment, skillfully connected with hanging stitches, paying homage to the art of hand bookbinding and the intricate Japanese weaving technique, Kumihimo. This meticulous craftsmanship, which utilizes negative space to create a unique design, not only showcases the CX-90's Japanese lineage but also sets a new standard for automotive interior excellence. The interior exudes luxury and comfort throughout its three rows of seating drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese aesthetics. From the captain's chairs to the third row, a rich tapestry of materials, including cushy Nappa leather, exquisite wood accents, and tone-on-tone fabrics all comes together in perfect harmony.

Exterior Artistry

The new Mazda CX-90's exterior is a testament to automotive artistry with its latest paint variant, Artisan Red Metallic. It's no secret around my house my favorite color in the world is not red, but Mazda Red. But this new Artisan Red Metallic color is a good choice for this full-size SUV as it exemplifies both the Mazda traits of refinement and performance. Let's not get caught up in all the sparkle of this new SUV and forget it had a purpose when designed. The CX-90 was designed with both the driver and all three rows of passengers in mind. There is now ample cabin space, for seating up to eight and generous cargo capacity because of the new expansive platform. For the driver, the new design provides a wider body and bold fenders but also an extended wheelbase, creating an imposing presence and emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. Adding an extra layer of sophistication, chrome embellishments adorn the lower bumpers, accentuating its timeless design language and width, while newly introduced 21-inch diamond-cut wheels, finished in resplendent black metallic, perfectly complement the CX-90's commanding aura.

I believe the leaders of Mazda did a great job with the new CX-90. As a flagship model, the CX-90 stands as a symbol of the brand's evolution. It is most definitely setting the stage for a future where performance and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. If you are in the market for a new full-size three-row SUV, stop by a Mazda dealer and drive one. It's not your Dad's Zoom Zoom.

Specifications

Engine: 340 horsepower e-Skyactiv G 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six gas & M-Hybrid Boost system
Torque: 369 pound-feet
Transmission: Skyactiv-Drive 8-Speed
Wheels: 21” Diamond Cut Alloy
Sound: BOSE 12 Speaker System
Touchscreen: 12.3”
Color: Artisan Red Metallic
Fuel: 23/28 (mpg city/highway)
MSRP (shown): $59,950

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
Mazda CX-90

About Mazda

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Colombia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center