The Mazda CX-90 has landed as Mazda’s new three-row flagship, and it’s generating buzz in the midsize SUV segment. But the question isn’t whether it’s good — it’s whether it makes sense for your family and budget. With competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Kia Telluride dominating the market, the Mazda CX-90 needs to offer more than just style. Let’s dig into the details that matter for real ownership: fuel economy, cargo space, pricing, and long-term value.
What Makes the Mazda CX-90 Different?
The Mazda CX-90 is built on a new rear-biased all-wheel-drive platform, a rarity in this class. This gives it driving dynamics closer to a sedan than a typical SUV. Under the hood, you get a choice of two powertrains: a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six-cylinder engine (280 or 340 hp) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total of 323 hp. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth, and the available towing capacity tops 5,000 pounds — competitive with the class leaders.
But specs only tell part of the story. The inline-six delivers a refined, responsive feel that’s rare in this segment. The PHEV variant offers up to 26 miles of electric-only range, enough for short commutes. Both come with standard all-wheel drive, which simplifies the shopping process.
Fuel Economy and Powertrain Options
Fuel costs are a top concern for family buyers. The Mazda CX-90’s EPA ratings are respectable but not class-leading. The turbo six-cylinder gets an estimated 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). The PHEV, when charged regularly, can achieve an equivalent of 56 MPGe, but on gas alone it drops to around 25 mpg combined. For comparison, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieves 35 mpg combined, and the Honda Pilot manages 22 mpg combined. So if pure fuel savings are your priority, the Highlander Hybrid still wins. However, the Mazda CX-90’s driving experience is notably more engaging — something your daily commute will thank you for.
The PHEV also qualifies for a federal tax credit (up to $3,750 depending on battery sourcing), which can offset its higher starting price. But be aware that the credit may vary by trim and build date. If you can plug in nightly, the PHEV makes financial sense over a few years.
Cargo Space and Interior Practicality
Midsize SUVs live or die by their ability to haul people and stuff. The Mazda CX-90 offers seating for up to eight with a bench second row, or seven with captain’s chairs. Cargo space is competitive: 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 40.1 behind the second row, and 75.6 with both rows folded. That’s less than the Kia Telluride (21.0/46.0/87.0) and the Honda Pilot (18.6/48.5/87.0), but still adequate for most family trips.
Where the CX-90 shines is interior quality. Materials feel upscale, especially on higher trims with Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. The infotainment system uses a rotary controller rather than touchscreen — more distracting at first, but safer once you’re used to it. Third-row legroom is tight for adults, typical for this class, but kids will fit fine.
Pricing and Value
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 starts at around $40,000 for the base model with the turbo six-cylinder and reaches over $60,000 for the fully loaded PHEV Turbo S Premium Plus. That puts it in the same ballpark as the Highlander and Pilot but slightly above the Telluride’s starting price of $36,000. However, Mazda’s standard all-wheel drive (often a $1,500-$2,000 option on competitors) narrows the gap. Resale value is a question mark: Mazda historically holds value well, but the CX-90 is too new for long-term data. Early indicators from Kelley Blue Book suggest above-average retention.
If you’re leasing, the CX-90’s residual values look competitive. But if you plan to keep the car for 10 years, factor in Mazda’s reputation for reliability — Consumer Reports rates it above average, though the new platform could bring unknown issues.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a strong suit. The IIHS has named the Mazda CX-90 a Top Safety Pick+ (2024), with top scores in all crash tests and good headlight ratings across trims. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist come standard, too. That’s a solid package for families.
Reliability is harder to judge. The CX-90’s powertrain is new, so early recalls are possible. Mazda has a decent track record, but the first year of a new generation often brings teething problems. Read owner forums before buying.
Bottom Line
The Mazda CX-90 isn’t the most spacious or fuel-efficient choice in its class, but it offers a compelling blend of driving pleasure, upscale interior, and standard all-wheel drive. If you value how a car drives and want a family SUV that doesn’t feel like a penalty box, the Mazda CX-90 is a smart buy. Just be sure to compare its real-world cargo space and PHEV tax math against the competition. Don’t buy the headline — buy the long-term fit.