The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV represents one of the boldest vehicles Mazda has ever built. For decades, the Japanese automaker earned a reputation for producing stylish, driver-focused vehicles that offered a premium feel without premium pricing. With the CX-90 PHEV, Mazda takes that philosophy a step further and enters territory traditionally occupied by luxury brands.
Replacing the aging CX-9 was never going to be an easy task. The outgoing SUV was well regarded for its design and driving dynamics, but the market has evolved. Buyers now expect electrification, more technology, greater efficiency, and upscale interiors that rival luxury competitors. Mazda’s answer is the CX-90 PHEV, a three-row SUV designed to meet those expectations while maintaining the brand’s distinctive character.
What immediately separates the CX-90 from many mainstream rivals is its ambition. Rather than competing directly with vehicles such as the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot, Mazda appears to have aimed higher. The cabin materials, design philosophy, powertrain technology, and overall driving experience feel intentionally positioned closer to vehicles from Acura, Volvo, and even BMW than traditional family SUVs.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is a major part of that strategy. By combining a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor and a sizeable battery pack, Mazda delivers a vehicle that can handle daily commuting on electricity while still providing the flexibility expected from a long-distance family SUV. It is a solution that allows buyers to reduce fuel consumption without worrying about charging infrastructure during road trips.
Despite its size, the CX-90 never feels like a typical three-row SUV. Mazda’s engineers focused heavily on driving dynamics, resulting in steering, chassis tuning, and overall road manners that feel unusually refined for a vehicle of this class. While most family SUVs prioritize comfort above all else, the CX-90 attempts to blend comfort with genuine driver engagement.
The interior tells a similar story. Premium materials, elegant design details, and impressive craftsmanship help create an environment that feels far more expensive than the vehicle’s price tag suggests. This attention to detail gives the CX-90 a level of sophistication rarely found in mainstream three-row SUVs.
The result is a vehicle that occupies a unique position in today’s market. It offers the efficiency benefits of a plug-in hybrid, the practicality of a family SUV, and a premium driving experience that exceeds expectations. For buyers seeking something more distinctive than the average three-row crossover, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV makes an exceptionally compelling first impression.
Our Take
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is one of the most interesting three-row SUVs currently available. It successfully combines electrified efficiency, premium design, strong performance, and family-friendly practicality without losing the driving character that has defined Mazda for years.
Its biggest achievement is how cohesive the overall package feels. Many plug-in hybrids excel at efficiency but feel uninspiring to drive. The CX-90 PHEV manages to deliver meaningful electric capability while still feeling refined, responsive, and enjoyable from behind the wheel.
For families looking to move into a more upscale SUV without paying luxury-brand prices, the CX-90 PHEV stands out as one of the strongest values in the segment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Premium interior quality that rivals luxury competitors
- Powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain with 323 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive across the lineup
- Smooth and refined driving experience
- Comfortable and quiet highway manners
- Attractive exterior styling with upscale presence
- Impressive safety and driver-assistance technology
- Ability to complete many daily commutes using electric power alone
Cons
- Plug-in hybrid system adds weight compared to non-hybrid models
- Third-row space is not the largest in the segment
- Cargo capacity trails some key competitors
- Higher trims become relatively expensive
What’s New for 2024
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is an all-new model and represents a major milestone for the brand. It replaces the outgoing CX-9, introduces Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid powertrain in North America, and debuts the company’s new flagship three-row SUV architecture. Along with increased interior space, improved technology, and a more premium cabin, the CX-90 PHEV signals Mazda’s intention to move further upmarket.
Exterior Design
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is easily one of the most elegant three-row SUVs currently available. Rather than adopting the aggressive styling trends seen throughout the segment, Mazda focused on creating a cleaner and more sophisticated design that emphasizes proportions and presence rather than visual excess.
Its long hood immediately differentiates it from most competitors. Combined with the rear-wheel-drive-based platform, the CX-90 achieves proportions that feel closer to a luxury SUV than a traditional family crossover. The wide grille, slim LED headlights, and sculpted bodywork create a premium appearance that looks expensive without becoming flashy.
From the side, the CX-90’s length is obvious, but clever design details prevent it from appearing bulky. The flowing shoulder line, large wheel options, and carefully shaped glasshouse give the SUV a sense of motion even when parked. Mazda’s paint quality further enhances the premium impression, particularly in colors such as Soul Red Crystal and Artisan Red.
The rear design follows the same philosophy. Clean surfaces, slim taillights, and restrained chrome accents create a sophisticated finish that complements the vehicle’s upscale positioning. Among mainstream three-row SUVs, few competitors look as refined as the CX-90.
Driving Experience
Driving enjoyment has always been part of Mazda’s identity, and the CX-90 PHEV demonstrates that electrification does not have to come at the expense of driver engagement. Despite its size and family-focused mission, the CX-90 feels remarkably composed and rewarding behind the wheel.
The steering is one of the first things drivers will notice. It feels precise, well weighted, and more connected than what is typically found in large three-row SUVs. Mazda has avoided the overly light steering common among family crossovers, helping the CX-90 feel confident on both city streets and winding roads.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain produces a combined 323 horsepower, giving the SUV strong acceleration for its class. Initial electric torque helps the vehicle move away from stops smoothly and quietly, while the gasoline engine seamlessly contributes additional power when needed. Highway passing and merging require little effort, even when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers.
Mazda’s eight-speed automatic transmission deserves credit as well. Unlike some hybrid systems that rely on continuously variable transmissions, the CX-90 delivers a more natural driving feel. Gear changes are smooth and predictable, helping the SUV feel more traditional and refined.
Body control is particularly impressive. Large SUVs often feel heavy and cumbersome during quick direction changes, but the CX-90 remains surprisingly composed. Mazda’s chassis tuning helps minimize body roll while maintaining excellent stability at highway speeds.
The standard all-wheel-drive system further enhances confidence. Whether driving through rain, snow, or rough road conditions, traction remains predictable and reassuring. While the CX-90 is not intended for serious off-road use, it handles poor weather and light trail duty without difficulty.
What ultimately separates the CX-90 PHEV from many competitors is its balance. It provides the comfort families expect, the efficiency buyers want from a plug-in hybrid, and the engaging driving character that has long distinguished Mazda from the rest of the mainstream market.
Performance & Acceleration
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is one of the biggest reasons to consider the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV. Combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery pack, the system produces a healthy 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers place it among the stronger performers in the three-row SUV segment.
What stands out most is how effortlessly the power is delivered. The electric motor provides immediate torque from a standstill, helping the CX-90 feel responsive during city driving. Whether pulling away from a traffic light or navigating stop-and-go traffic, acceleration feels smooth and refined.
When additional power is needed, the gasoline engine joins the effort seamlessly. The combined output allows the CX-90 to accelerate confidently onto highways and complete passing maneuvers without hesitation. Even with seven or eight passengers onboard, the powertrain rarely feels strained.
Unlike some plug-in hybrids that prioritize efficiency at the expense of driving enjoyment, the CX-90 PHEV manages to feel genuinely quick while maintaining impressive refinement. It delivers the kind of performance buyers expect from a premium SUV rather than a fuel-saving family vehicle.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Ride comfort is one of the areas where the CX-90 PHEV feels closest to a luxury vehicle. Mazda invested considerable effort into refining the suspension, reducing cabin noise, and improving overall ride quality, and the results are immediately noticeable.
Around town, the suspension absorbs potholes, expansion joints, and broken pavement with impressive composure. The vehicle feels solid and controlled rather than overly soft, avoiding the floating sensation that affects some large SUVs. Passengers remain comfortable even when road surfaces deteriorate.
Highway travel is where the CX-90 truly shines. At cruising speeds, wind and road noise are exceptionally well managed, creating a calm environment that encourages long-distance travel. The plug-in hybrid system contributes further refinement by allowing portions of the journey to be completed in near silence.
The seats deserve special praise. Front-seat occupants benefit from excellent support, generous adjustment ranges, and available premium upholstery. Even after several hours behind the wheel, fatigue is minimal thanks to Mazda’s thoughtful seat design and driving position.
Rear passengers are treated well too. The second row offers generous space and excellent comfort, while the third row is noticeably more accommodating than the outgoing CX-9. Although some larger competitors still provide more room, the CX-90 represents a significant improvement for Mazda’s three-row SUV lineup.
Perhaps the most impressive achievement is how the CX-90 balances comfort with control. Many large family SUVs prioritize softness above all else, but Mazda has preserved a level of composure that makes the vehicle feel stable and confidence-inspiring without compromising passenger comfort.
Interior & Luxury Feel
If there is one area where the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV genuinely exceeds expectations, it is the interior. From the moment you open the door, it becomes clear that Mazda intended this SUV to challenge vehicles from premium brands rather than simply compete with mainstream rivals.
The dashboard design is elegant and refreshingly restrained. Rather than relying on oversized screens and excessive visual clutter, Mazda focuses on high-quality materials, clean lines, and thoughtful craftsmanship. The result is a cabin that feels sophisticated and timeless rather than trendy.
Material quality is exceptional throughout much of the interior. Soft-touch surfaces, genuine metal accents, available Nappa leather, real wood trim, and carefully stitched panels create an upscale atmosphere rarely found at this price point. In higher trims, the attention to detail becomes even more impressive, with design elements inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Build quality further reinforces the premium impression. Controls operate with satisfying precision, panel fitment is excellent, and every major touchpoint feels solid. These details may seem minor individually, but together they create a level of refinement that elevates the entire ownership experience.
Passenger comfort is another highlight. The front seats are spacious and supportive, visibility is excellent, and the overall cabin layout feels driver-focused without neglecting family practicality. Combined with the quiet ride and premium materials, the CX-90 PHEV delivers an interior experience that rivals SUVs costing considerably more.
Technology & Infotainment
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV combines modern technology with Mazda’s preference for simplicity and usability. At the center of the dashboard sits a large infotainment display measuring up to 12.3 inches, offering sharp graphics, quick response times, and a clean interface that avoids unnecessary complexity.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on most trims, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, communication, and entertainment. Available features include wireless charging, connected vehicle services, navigation, and a premium Bose audio system that delivers impressive sound quality throughout the cabin.
Unlike many competitors that rely entirely on touchscreens, Mazda continues to use a rotary controller for many infotainment functions. While some drivers may need time to adjust, the system can reduce distractions by allowing users to operate menus without constantly reaching toward the display. Combined with the available digital instrument cluster and head-up display, the overall technology experience feels both modern and thoughtfully executed.
Fuel Economy & Electric Range
Efficiency is one of the primary reasons buyers will consider the CX-90 PHEV, and Mazda has done a commendable job balancing performance with fuel savings. The plug-in hybrid system allows drivers to complete many daily commutes using electric power alone, reducing fuel consumption and making short trips significantly cheaper to operate.
The 17.8-kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated electric range of approximately 26 miles. While that figure may not lead the segment, it is sufficient for many drivers to complete school runs, errands, and daily commuting without using gasoline. Regular charging allows owners to maximize the benefits of the plug-in hybrid system.
Once the battery is depleted, the CX-90 continues operating as an efficient hybrid. Unlike some plug-in hybrids that feel compromised after their electric range is exhausted, the Mazda remains smooth, refined, and relatively economical. This flexibility makes it an appealing option for families who want electrification without the limitations of a fully electric SUV.
Practicality & Cargo Space
As Mazda’s flagship three-row SUV, the CX-90 PHEV has been designed with family practicality in mind. It offers seating for up to eight passengers depending on configuration, making it a viable choice for larger households that need additional passenger capacity without stepping into a full-size SUV.
The second row is particularly impressive. Access is straightforward, legroom is generous, and higher trims provide premium seating options that significantly enhance passenger comfort. Families with children or adults regularly occupying the second row will appreciate the spacious and upscale environment.
The third row represents a meaningful improvement over the previous CX-9. While it remains best suited for children and smaller adults on longer journeys, it is far more usable than many compact three-row crossovers. Occasional adult passengers will find the space acceptable for shorter trips.
Cargo space is competitive, although not class-leading. There is enough room behind the third row for groceries, backpacks, and daily essentials, while folding the rear seats dramatically increases storage capacity for road trips, sports equipment, or larger household items.
Ultimately, practicality is one of the CX-90 PHEV’s strongest qualities. It successfully balances passenger comfort, cargo flexibility, and premium accommodations without feeling oversized or difficult to maneuver. While some rivals offer slightly more cargo volume, few combine practicality with such a premium overall experience.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety plays a major role in the CX-90 PHEV’s appeal, particularly given its family-oriented mission. Mazda equips the SUV with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance both convenience and occupant protection.
Standard features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and driver attention monitoring. These systems operate smoothly and help reduce driver workload during everyday commuting and highway travel.
The available i-Activsense package expands the SUV’s capabilities further through additional monitoring systems, enhanced collision-avoidance technologies, traffic sign recognition, and advanced parking assistance features. Together, these technologies contribute to a more confident driving experience.
Visibility is generally excellent for a vehicle of this size, and available features such as a 360-degree camera system make parking and maneuvering considerably easier. Families transitioning from smaller vehicles will particularly appreciate these tools when navigating crowded urban environments.
Most importantly, Mazda has calibrated these systems exceptionally well. Rather than overwhelming drivers with constant alerts and intrusive interventions, the CX-90 PHEV delivers safety assistance in a natural and reassuring manner. The result is a three-row SUV that feels protective, sophisticated, and well prepared for modern family transportation.
Competitors Worth Considering
The most direct competitor to the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid. Toyota’s larger SUV offers exceptional practicality, impressive fuel economy, and a spacious third row that comfortably accommodates adults. Families prioritizing maximum interior space may find the Toyota particularly appealing, although it lacks the premium driving character and upscale cabin materials that distinguish the Mazda.
The Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid are also worth considering. Both provide strong efficiency, generous technology packages, and competitive pricing. However, neither feels as refined or luxurious as the CX-90 PHEV, especially when comparing interior craftsmanship and overall driving experience.
Buyers should also consider Mazda’s own SUV lineup before making a final decision. The 2023 Mazda CX-5 remains an excellent choice for smaller families who prioritize premium interior quality and engaging handling but do not need a third row. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offers a more rugged personality and greater outdoor versatility, making it ideal for adventurous buyers. Meanwhile, the CX-90 PHEV sits at the top of the range, combining the luxury feel of the CX-5 with the adventurous spirit of the CX-50 while adding three-row practicality and plug-in hybrid efficiency.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the CX-90 PHEV Premium Sport delivers the strongest balance of value, comfort, technology, and luxury. It includes many of the features shoppers expect from a premium SUV without pushing the price into territory occupied by luxury-brand competitors.
Higher trims undoubtedly add attractive upgrades, including more premium materials and additional technology features, but the Premium Sport captures the essence of the CX-90 PHEV’s appeal while maintaining a more reasonable price point. For the majority of families, it is the trim that makes the most financial and practical sense.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is far more than a replacement for the old CX-9. It represents a major step forward for Mazda and demonstrates the brand’s growing confidence in competing with premium manufacturers. The combination of electrified efficiency, luxury-level interior quality, and engaging driving dynamics creates a package that feels genuinely special.
Its plug-in hybrid powertrain adds another layer of appeal. The ability to complete daily commutes using electric power while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine makes the CX-90 PHEV particularly attractive for modern families. Few vehicles in this segment balance performance, practicality, and efficiency so effectively.
There are a few compromises. Cargo space is not class-leading, the third row remains smaller than some larger rivals, and higher trims can become expensive. However, these drawbacks are relatively minor when viewed against the vehicle’s overall strengths.
For buyers seeking a three-row SUV that feels more luxurious than mainstream competitors without carrying a luxury-brand price tag, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is one of the most compelling choices available today. It successfully combines style, technology, comfort, efficiency, and driving enjoyment in a way few rivals can match.
FAQ
Is the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV worth buying?
Yes. The CX-90 PHEV offers a rare combination of luxury-level interior quality, plug-in hybrid efficiency, standard all-wheel drive, and engaging driving dynamics. It stands out as one of the most complete three-row SUVs currently available.
How far can the Mazda CX-90 PHEV drive on electricity alone?
The EPA-estimated electric range is approximately 26 miles. While not the highest figure among plug-in hybrids, it is enough for many owners to complete daily commutes and errands without using gasoline.
Is the Mazda CX-90 PHEV better than the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid?
The answer depends on priorities. The Toyota offers more interior space and excellent efficiency, while the Mazda provides a more premium cabin, stronger driving dynamics, and a more luxurious overall experience.
What is the best Mazda SUV to buy in 2024?
Buyers seeking a compact SUV should consider the Mazda CX-5, while those wanting a more rugged design may prefer the Mazda CX-50. Families needing three rows, luxury-level refinement, and plug-in hybrid efficiency will find the CX-90 PHEV to be Mazda’s most complete SUV.
Which 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trim offers the best value?
For most buyers, the Premium Sport trim offers the best balance of features, technology, comfort, and pricing. It includes many premium amenities without reaching the significantly higher prices of top-spec models.
