CX-90

Make
Mazda
Segment
SUV

After an extensive teaser campaign, including the confirmation of an all-new inline-six engine, Mazda has finally unveiled the all-new CX-90 in full. The CX-90 is built on Mazda's equally new large platform, and it's presented to the world as a three-row crossover that sits neatly atop the Japanese manufacturer's range. In other words, it's the new flagship, a halo model for the hybrid SUV generation.

The design is standard Mazda, which means it's elegant and ever so slightly imposing. Mazda's new platform allows for more interior room, but from a design perspective, it gives the car a wider stance. Thanks to a body covered in curves, it doesn't look as big or ostentatious.

Mazda even went as far as developing an all-new Takuminuri color specifically for this car. It's the fourth color to be introduced under the brand's premium paint banner, called Artisan Red.

Power-wise, two new engines are available. Obviously, the one that gets the most attention is the 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six, producing 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also equipped with a mild-hybrid setup called M-Hybrid Boost. The fancy name refers to a small electric motor housed between the engine and transmission, and it's there to nullify turbo lag by adding low-down EV power from a standstill.

Mazda didn't provide claimed performance figures, but it does state that the powertrain provides an "upscale feeling, a smooth-driving experience, engaging sound, and efficiency." We're just glad Mazda is brave enough to introduce an all-new gas engine in these weird ICE-banning times.

The second option is the e-Skyactiv PHEV, built around the well-known naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-pot used in several Mazda products. It has a revised intake for increased torque, but the big news is the addition of an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery. The claimed output is 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

Mazda says the CX-90 will operate purely on electricity in various driving scenarios but failed to provide an estimated range. Whatever the range is, it gives Mazda the upper hand against rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, which aren't available as PHEVs yet.

Both powertrains are mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission designed specifically for longitudinal powertrains and large vehicles. It's a multi-speed gearbox without a torque converter, which Mazda says will aid smooth acceleration and drivetrain efficiency.

Claimed consumption figures are not available yet, but it will be interesting to see how the PHEV's consumption compares to the older turbocharged version of the four-pot mated to the well-known six-speed transmission.

It will also be interesting to see whether the CX-90 can improve on the CX-9's mediocre maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The interior is quite minimalist, and you'll find a bit of Japanese culture integrated between the various features. We love the layout and struggled to find a piece of substandard material while poking around the interior. Thankfully, Mazda kept the ergonomics simple. The HVAC controls (and several other regularly used features) are physical buttons and not hidden within the 12.3-inch center display.

While poking around, we noticed Nappa, wood, and exciting fabrics all the way from the front seats to the third row. Second-row captain's chairs are available if you don't need a full eight-seater.

We particularly like the fabric with hanging stitches on the dashboard, inspired by hand-bookbinding and an intricate Japanese weaving technique known as Kumihimo. In our experience, the Japanese are at their best when they lean into their heritage instead of mimicking trends in the west. Nissan's Ariya is another fine example of sublime interior design.

As the new halo model, the CX-90 is packed with features. We don't have the complete trim guideline yet, but Mazda promised comfort across all three rows. Every row will have access to USB-C charging ports (optional in the third row), air conditioning vents, and upgraded interior lighting, to name just a few.

Since this is a family car, safety is paramount. Standard features in the i-Activsense suite include Smart Brake Support, blind-spot monitoring, and Mazda Radar cruise control. Mazda is on a roll when it comes to safety, so we expect nothing less than a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.

"CX-90 offers powerful and responsive performance, alluring design, and intuitive technology. We're very proud of our team's work on CX-90, which we know is a breakthrough vehicle in its segment," said Jeff Guyton, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations.

Mazda did not provide pricing but its website does state that the CX-90 will be arriving this spring. Having had a close look, we suspect Mazda will have a tough time keeping up with demand.