Out with the old and in with the new – the recently debuted Mazda CX-90 is finally ready for the masses, and it is indeed bigger and better than the CX-9 that it replaces. The third row was the defining quality of the CX-9 and a crucially important one for those drivers with multiple passengers, like Dad Drivers. What other features does the extra “0” at the end of the name bring with it, and are they a cause for celebration? This Dad says yes.
First, let’s talk about the three most significant changes the Mazda CX-90 has over the departing CX-9.
Dimensions: It might not be by much, but the CX-90 is indeed larger than the CX-9 in terms of length, width, and height. The CX-90 is 200.8 inches long, 78.5 inches wide, and 68.7 inches tall compared to the CX-9, which was 199.4 inches long, 77.2 inches wide, and 67.6 inches tall. The biggest difference here is the width, which translates into slightly more hip room for passengers — every inch counts.
Chassis: The engine layout in the CX-90 is longitudinal, a change from the CX-9’s transverse setup. What does this mean? In transverse engine layouts like in the CX-9, the cylinders in the engine run side-by-side, perpendicular to the length of the vehicle. In longitudinal engine layouts, the cylinders run front to back, parallel to the length of the car. This setup allows the CX-90 to house a larger engine, producing better overall handling for a vehicle of this size.
Cargo Space: This is a big one. Simply put, the CX-90 offers more cargo space than the CX-9. 4 cubic feet of space to be exact. With all the seats down, the CX-90 provides 75.2 cubic feet of cargo space. This also means slightly more passenger space across both rear rows of seating. More room for the kids to make a mess in!
What This Dad Digs about the 2024 Mazda CX-90
Sporty Meet Rugged – Mazda vehicles have always been sleek and futuristic, but like the new CX-50 released last year, this new CX-90 model is injected with new stylings that combine sporty curves with rugged angles. In short, this version of Mazda’s largest people hauler looks like it can now haul with a fierce amount of power and ruggedness. More aggressive air intakes up front in the nose create a smaller space for the grill, but it mixes well to create a front end that is refreshing, powerful, and modern. A bulkier rear end and a lower stance give the CX-90 an overall appearance of heft and weight – complimenting the more powerful engine.
Not to worry, though: even with all these subtle design changes, Mazda’s sleek design language still shines through and compliments the new sporty elements quite nicely.
Upscaled Interior – Mazda’s are known for their minimalistic interiors, and while that motif still rings true in the 2024 CX-90, there are still nice touches of luxury that take the comfort level up a few notches. The Premium Plus model of the CX-90 we tested came with a bold, tan fabric upholstery, and the seats were wrapped in soft Nappa leather. Both feel beautiful to the touch and certainly make a strong case for the higher, more expensive trims (the entry-level Select trim does not come with leather seats, but all trims below the Premium Plus do have the Nappa versions)
Powerfully Capable – Mazda pulls out all the stops when introducing a new model. For example, the new CX-90 is the first vehicle in its lineup to use a new turbocharged 3.3-liter six-cylinder inline engine. While inline6 engines are becoming more common in the auto industry, Mazda goes further here and pairs the engine with a 48-volt hybrid system for an extra boost of longevity. An eight-speed transmission rounds out the engine configuration, allowing for a powertrain that produces 340 horsepower. Add to that standard all-wheel drive – included on all trim levels of the CX-90 – and you have the makings of a powerfully capable drive.
Capable is indeed a fantastic adjective when it comes to describing the CX-90 drive. I would also use the words smooth, robust, and familiar. That last adjective is important because, for a new vehicle with a new engine configuration, the CX-90 has obviously been finely tuned to drive and handle like a Mazda. I felt enough power under the pedal to zig and zag through traffic, and when I needed it, I could launch from a standstill like I was in a lighter vehicle. Handling was pinpoint, and cornering was butter smooth. Adventurous drivers may want a more tactile feel than the CX-90 offers, but as a daily driver in an urban area, this provides a comfy ride.
Fuel Economy For the Family Minded – The CX-90 is rated at 25 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles on the highway. During our week with it, we found these numbers to be accurate. As a Dad Driver who traverses over 60 miles daily from my child’s school to work and back again, these fuel economy numbers are a win.
What Gets This Dad’s Downvote
Third Row Blues – The CX-90 has a third row, but it’s still a crossover-style third row, meaning legroom is sparse. It’s perfect for the small legs of children, but adults with longer legs will undoubtedly feel cramped. The best-case scenario – and how I would use the CX-90 – is to use the third row sparingly and instead keep the seats folded down to take advantage of the additional cargo space.
Minimalism Fatigue – The way Mazda sets up its infotainment screens in the interior of its vehicles is a thing of beauty. The wide, squat screen perched on the dash is unobtrusive and super stylish. The driver interacts with it by using a dial mounted in the center console, so no fingerprint smudges keep the screen pristine. The only drawback is the aging software interface. Aging even feels like the wrong word because the interface is indeed sleek and modern, but it’s been a minute since Mazda has updated it. The overall design of the UI is too minimalistic and cold, leaving something to be desired. Mazda’s infotainment screens are getting wider and wider, but the sparse menus in the UI make that space feel empty and unused. Thankfully, wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay are compatible here and offer better alternatives.
0 for a Hero
More than anything, the new Mazda CX-90 feels like a family car, through and through, but with the addition of a new engine there is some excitement to the drive that should remind us that this car company is all about the experience of speed. The base price for the CX-90 starts at $40k but after living with the bells and whistles of the 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus Package version it’s difficult to recommend the upgrade. The CX-90 we tested came in at just under $60k – a significant jump up from that base price. The value is there but that price tag may be too high for those looking for abundant cargo space and significant third row leg room.
Thats the thing about Mazda – they make crossover vehicles sexy but practical, and the CX-90 is the latest testament to that. They’ve done more here than just adding a 0 to the name. Instead, Mazda has created a vehicle that feels brand new and energetic. Its spacious where it counts and as a Dad Driver, I’ll take extra space whenever I can get it. Throw in solid safety features, a decent full economy rating, and a proven design motif and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is shaping up to be the hero we needed.
Phillip is a filmmaker, an award-winning playwright, screenwriter and craft beer aficionado. He writes about cars, car tech, and various other cool Dad things. He lives, works and plays in Dallas, Texas.
