Mazda CX-9 2024: Dissecting the Midsize SUV's Enduring Appeal and Latest Evolution
The Mazda CX-90 has become the cornerstone of the Japanese manufacturer's crosstruck strategy in North America, representing a bold shift from its predecessor. This evolution, detailed in model year 2024, moves the marque into a new era of premium competition with a distinct design language and a foundational switch to a longitudinal, rear-biased platform. The move positions the CX-90 not just as a family hauler, but as a dynamic and sophisticated choice for the discerning driver seeking substance without sacrificing driving pleasure.
The CX-90’s debut marked a clear departure from the rotary-era styling cues of the outgoing CX-9, embracing a more expansive, fastback-inspired silhouette. This new design philosophy, termed "KODO—Soul of Motion," is intended to convey a sense of heightened energy and elegance. Under the skin, the vehicle represents a significant technical leap, adopting a rear-wheel-drive-based platform that is fundamental to the premium feel and handling dynamics Mazda is known for.
This structural change is the catalyst for the CX-90’s core identity. By situating the engine longitudinally, like a traditional sedan, the engineers were able to optimize weight distribution and achieve a near 50:50 balance. The result is a vehicle that feels planted and responsive in every driving scenario, a trait that is increasingly rare in its class. This commitment to a driver-centric experience is the narrative that defines the current generation of the model.
The Design Evolution: Form Meets New Function
The exterior of the CX-90 is a study in confident, clean lines. The front fascia features a large, rounded hexagonal grille that stretches horizontally, integrating the slim LED headlights into its form. This creates a sense of width and presence that is immediately commanding on the road. The design is less about aggressive corners and more about smooth, flowing surfaces that cut through the air with a coefficient of drag of just 0.31.
Stepping inside reveals a cabin that is a significant upgrade in both materials and technology. The use of premium leather, soft-touch plastics, and brushed metal accents creates an atmosphere of refined luxury. The centerpiece is a large, portrait-oriented 12.3-inch touchscreen that governs the infotainment system, climate controls, and advanced safety functions. The shift from physical buttons to a more gesture- and menu-driven interface represents a major change in the Mazda user experience.
Interior Comfort and Cutting-Edge Technology
The interior is designed with a clear focus on the second-row experience, positioning the CX-90 as a formidable luxury competitor. The available heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats provide exceptional comfort on long journeys, while the rear offers ample legroom and a quiet cabin. The panoramic moonroof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness.
Technology is woven into the fabric of the vehicle, not just as a feature, but as an integral part of the interface. The new software allows for more intuitive control of navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. A notable addition is a head-up display that projects critical information, such as navigation arrows and driving dynamics, directly onto the windshield, keeping the driver's eyes on the road.
Performance and Capability: The Heart of the Matter
Performance is where the CX-90 truly comes into its own. The base model is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides more than enough power for everyday driving, with brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery.
For those seeking more robust capability, the 2024 model year introduces a plug-in hybrid variant. This system combines a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering an EPA-estimated 32 MPGe in hybrid mode. This powertrain is a strategic addition, catering to a segment of buyers who want the performance and range of a traditional engine with the efficiency and environmental benefits of electrification. The CX-60, a smaller sibling based on the same platform, also offers a plug-in hybrid option, providing a glimpse into Mazda's broader electrification plans.
Towing and Practicality
Despite its focus on dynamics, the CX-90 does not compromise on practicality. With its third-row seating option, it becomes a true seven-seater, capable of transporting a family with ease. The second row features a "theater" seating configuration, where the outboard seats slide forward and are positioned higher than the middle seat, ensuring an unobstructed view for passengers in the center.
Towing capacity is rated at up to 5,000 pounds, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size and platform. The available intelligent all-wheel-drive system, with its center-active differential, provides confident traction in various conditions, making the CX-90 adept at handling light off-road adventures or navigating snowy commutes.
Safety: A Non-Negotiable Standard
Safety is a paramount concern for the CX-90, and it is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems standard across the lineup. This commitment to safety is a core tenet of the brand's philosophy, ensuring that technological protection is not a luxury but a given.
The system, known as i-ACTIVSENSE, includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection. These features work in concert to help the driver maintain safety and control. The inclusion of a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot monitoring further enhances situational awareness, particularly during parking and low-speed maneuvering.
The Competitive Landscape: A New Benchmark?
In the crowded midsize luxury SUV segment, the CX-90 competes with established names like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. Its primary advantage lies in its driving dynamics; it offers a more engaging and responsive feel than many of its competitors, which can often feel bloated or numb at speed. The shift to the rear-biased platform has been instrumental in achieving this.
While it may lack the sheer opulence of some German rivals, the CX-90 offers a compelling value proposition. The focus on driver engagement, combined with its thoughtful design, advanced technology, and strong safety ratings, positions it as a unique and attractive choice. It is a vehicle for the driver who wants a premium SUV that prioritizes the joy of the journey as much as the destination.
