The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Is The RWD SUV Acura And Lexus Need

Here it is, finally. The brand-new Mazda CX-90 steps in where the CX-9 left off as the brand’s three-row offering, but this one’s a much bigger deal. In fact, this is one of the most ambitious products Mazda has ever designed. CX-90 introduces two new powertrains, a new transmission, a new rear-wheel drive architecture (though all models will be AWD), and a new interior design theme to the North American lineup. Overseas, these elements have been available in the new CX-60, but this is our first taste. For all the details we know, continue reading and check out the in-person first look video.

The rear 3/4 angle is a little off-putting in photos to some, but aside from that, the CX-90 is exactly the kind of sexy we’ve come to expect from Mazda. It’s more restrained than any Lexus, and oddly more, well, premium than the MDX. Inside there’s a Swedish level of simplicity and elegance: lighter woods, notable stitch patterns, and a refreshing lack of gloss black trim (thank goodness!). The second and third row, at first evaluation, do not necessarily feel like the largest in the class, but a full review will determine the extent of that delta. Interior dimensions have not yet been revealed. Mazda says this is a wider vehicle than the one it replaces, so read into that as you may.

Under the hood is where Mazda has spent the most money, in our eyes. Not abandoning ICE technology just yet, the CX-90 introduces the brand’s new mild-hybrid 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 engine that produces 340 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque (on premium fuel). There is a tiny electric motor wedged between the engine and transmission that supplements torque gaps during acceleration and can also directly power the car at low speeds.

Speaking of the transmission, that is a new in-house 8-speed automatic that should be a worthwhile replacement for the old 6-speed. The other option is a new 2.5L plug-in hybrid 4-cylinder that produces 323 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque on premium fuel. The battery is 17.8-kWh in size, but Mazda doesn’t have any range estimates or motor specs yet. Alex guesses it’ll be good for 30+ EV miles. We are also missing MPG estimates overall for both engines, so stay tuned. The most interesting twist we noticed when we checked it out in person was that the top trims sport 275/45R21 rubber making these some of the widest tires in the segment,.

What do you think? Is this is Mazda’s best attempt at making a premium vehicle yet? Is this the budget alternative to [gasp] a BMW X7 or GLS? Well, clearly no, this isn’t as snazzy as those, but it’s certainly a step above the Explorer and Highlander and even a step above the MDX and RX in interior refinement. Toss in the inline 6 engine and RWD driving dynamics and, well, you see where we’re going…