2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus Review: Powerful SUV With Minimal Trims To Gas Station

People say they are weighing the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV against Volvo, Hyundai, and Toyota and choosing the Mazda because this big PHEV SUV hits all the sweet spots. The interior quality is really differentiator and the plug-in with decent range makes it fantastic for running around town.

Doug Brady commenting under Redline Reviews of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV review on Youtube, writes "We were able to get one within a few weeks of order. Hyundai and Toyota have become a nightmare to deal with, with dealer mark-ups and insane wait times. Volvo was way too expensive for some of the features it was missing. After a ton of research, we felt this was the best option and it has not disappointed. I honestly would consider buying another one for me to drive."

Keep in mind that Mazda also has the 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S, but I don't know why anyone would get the Turbo S over the CX-90 PHEV. This is faster, more economical, and cheaper overall, plus has some pretty great leasing/financing incentives for being a PHEV at the moment.

The automotive landscape is evolving, but not every family is ready to embrace the electric revolution just yet. Mazda recognizes this, and that's precisely where the 2024 CX-90 Hybrid makes its entrance. This premium three-row crossover seamlessly combines the refined road manners synonymous with Mazda with the prowess of a robust 323-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive 26 miles of electric driving on a single charge. This EV-only range is enough for many people who have short commutes to work or school to pick up their children. But the 2024 CX-90 also gets an impressive 56 MPGe (electric + gasoline) or 25 MPG. So, with close to 500 miles of range, you will have minimal trips to the gas station.

Trims and Pricing

Mazda introduces the CX-90 Hybrid as a successor to the CX-9, positioning it as a family-friendly three-row option within its lineup, both in hybrid and non-hybrid variants.

1. Preferred
   • Price: $48,820
2. Premium
   • Price: $54,275
   • Features: The Premium trim enhances the base model with an array of premium features, including second-row captain's chairs, a panoramic sunroof, wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose stereo system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a wireless device charging pad.
3. Premium Plus
   • Price: $58,325
   • I test-drove this trim: The top-tier Premium Plus trim was test-driven, offering the pinnacle of features and driving experience.

The CX-90 Hybrid's base trim, the Preferred, presents a well-equipped option with premium features like leather upholstery, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power rear liftgate, three-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, and heated front seats. However, for an optimal balance of luxury and advanced technology, the mid-range Premium trim stands out, offering additional features that enhance the driving experience and comfort for a slightly higher price.

Exterior

When it comes to the exterior design, Mazda knocked this out of the park. The 2024 CX-90 PHEV looks BMWis for less price. 

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV marks a notable departure in design from its predecessor, the CX-9. Several key changes contribute to its distinctive exterior aesthetic.

The CX-90 is longer and wider than the CX-9, enhancing its presence on the road and potentially impacting interior space. 

The CX-90 boasts muscular, modern sculpting, presenting a more contemporary and dynamic profile compared to the aging design of the CX-9. The CX-90 features updated exterior changes, refining its overall appearance for a more current and appealing look.

Interior

The 2024 Mazda CX-90's interior marks a significant step in Mazda's pursuit of an elevated driving experience. Stepping into the CX-90 from competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot reveals a richer cabin, showcasing Mazda's commitment to moving upmarket.

Let's look at the design, Infotainment and seating options.

Stitching and Trim: The stitching and trim elevate the CX-90 above other mainstream SUVs, contributing to a clean design and an overall upscale feel.

Materials: Quality materials adorn the interior, creating a stylish ambiance that falls just short of the luxury standards set by brands like Mercedes or BMW.

Operation: The infotainment system offers intuitive operation, providing users with the choice of touchscreen or rotary knob control.

Connectivity: Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay is seamlessly integrated, and the system is quick to respond to inputs.

Touchscreen vs. Knob Control: The inclusion of a rotary knob is appreciated for its ease of use, avoiding the need for a touchscreen, a feature acknowledged as beneficial.

Passenger Capacity: The CX-90 Hybrid accommodates up to eight passengers, with an option to reduce seating to seven by choosing second-row captain's chairs. Does the humongous CX-90 has less rear-seat legroom than a Kia Sportage? They really only needed the middle seat in the 3rd row since the rest of the space has really limited usage.

I wish there were more cargo space. With the third row down it has no more space than a RAV4.

In fact, I am wondering if Toyota will make a Highlander Prime, which would sacrifice some material quality for more cargo space in the Highlander.

Trim Variety: From the plush nappa-leather seats in higher-end models to the less extravagant, but handsomely styled Base Preferred trim, Mazda offers a range of options to suit different preferences.

Display Options: Depending on the trim, a 10.3- or 12.3-inch infotainment display graces the dashboard, controlled through a user-friendly click wheel.

Audio Experience: Audiophiles can opt for the Premium or Premium Plus trim to unlock the 12-speaker Bose premium stereo, enhancing the overall in-cabin audio experience.

Engine and Transmission

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers an impressive plug-in powertrain, featuring a 323-hp setup akin to the European-market CX-60 SUV. This dynamic system integrates an inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a robust 17.8-kWh battery pack.

Enhancing its versatility, all models are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, aligning with Mazda's SUV lineup's standards of excellence. Notably, the CX-90 ensures superior traction with its standard all-wheel-drive configuration. Our test drive affirmed the electrified powertrain's prowess, delivering ample power for both urban maneuvers and highway cruising.

Surpassing its nonhybrid counterpart, the CX-90 hit 60 mph in an impressive 5.9 seconds. What stood out was the harmonious blend of power sources— the gas engine exhibited a pleasantly raucous exhaust note, while the electric drive offered serene, motivation-rich silent cruising.

Additionally, the CX-90 Hybrid exhibited reasonably refined road manners, a testament to Mazda's signature athleticism, ensuring a delightful driving experience.

The Drive

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers a comfortable driving experience, balancing power and efficiency.

Accelerating with the gas pedal delivers a seamless and spirited response, thanks to the dynamic 323-hp plug-in powertrain. The electric acceleration is particularly noteworthy, providing ample power for around-town use, with a smooth and responsive feel that minimizes any perceptible lurches.

Breaking in the CX-90 PHEV is a controlled and reassuring experience, contributing to the overall sense of confidence behind the wheel. The integration of regenerative braking technology adds to the efficiency, recapturing energy during deceleration. It's reported that the SUV excels on the highway, delivering a well-balanced ride that is both refined and enjoyable. The family accustomed to a soft and cushy ride in previous SUVs found the CX-90's highway performance commendable.

So, the CX-90 PHEV impresses with its dynamic acceleration, confident braking, and an overall driving demeanor that combines efficiency with a hint of spirited driving pleasure. And I would like to conclude this review of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, offering five questions and answers about this huge PHEV SUV.

What's the key feature of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV? The CX-90 PHEV boasts a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery pack, delivering a robust 323 horsepower.

How does the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV perform on the road? The electrified powertrain provides ample power for both city and highway driving, surpassing the nonhybrid CX-90 in acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The SUV offers a refined driving experience, balancing the rowdy exhaust note of the gas engine with the silent power of the electric drive.

What the efficiency and electric-only range of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV? In EV mode, the CX-90 PHEV covers 26 miles on electricity alone, showcasing its commitment to eco-friendly driving. The overall efficiency is commendable, returning 57 MPGe on the highway fuel economy route.

Do I have any notable criticisms or concerns? Some reviewers express mixed feelings, with opinions varying on aspects like adaptive suspension and steering. However, overall, the CX-90 PHEV receives positive reviews for its driving dynamics and performance.

How does the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV compare to its nonhybrid counterpart? The PHEV version is reported to be quicker than the nonhybrid CX-90, emphasizing its prowess in blending power and efficiency.

Please, share your thoughts about the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV in the comments section. Do you like this vehicle?

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.