The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid aimed to redefine Mazda’s presence in the three-row SUV market, blending luxury and sustainability. With high hopes, we spent a year with the CX-90 Premium Plus AWD trim, clocking nearly 25,000 miles across various terrains and conditions. While it delivered on some fronts, the overall experience revealed significant shortcomings.
First Impressions: Striking Design and Comfort
Mazda nailed the aesthetics with the CX-90 Premium Plus AWD. Our model sported a stunning Deep Blue Crystal Mica exterior, complemented by a refined white Nappa leather interior. The design was elevated with details like a rear spoiler, 21-inch alloy wheels, and subtle copper accents in the cabin.
The interior features were equally impressive:
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front and second-row seats, plus a heated steering wheel
- Six USB ports for seamless connectivity
- Premium materials like chrome and blond-grained wood trim
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The cabin was both comfortable and durable, even after a year of heavy use. Despite its white upholstery, wear and tear were minimal, which is a testament to Mazda’s attention to quality.
Practicality Meets Versatility
The CX-90 proved itself as a practical family SUV. Its spacious cargo area accommodated photo equipment, ski gear, and vacation luggage with ease. The standard all-wheel drive performed admirably in icy conditions, offering stability and confidence on winter roads.
However, its utility wasn’t perfect. The low-profile 21-inch Falken Ziex all-season tires posed challenges, particularly when replacements were needed in remote areas. Still, we appreciated the inclusion of a spare tire—a lifesaver during a cross-country trip.
Performance: Powerful Yet Flawed
The CX-90’s 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from its 2.5L I-4 engine and electric motor delivered strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds. It also managed a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, catering to adventurers and families alike.
Yet, the new eight-speed automatic transmission left much to be desired. Mazda’s innovative wet-clutch design promised efficiency but instead introduced jarring shifts, especially during the transition from EV to hybrid modes. This issue disrupted the otherwise smooth driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
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Driving Dynamics: Mixed Feelings
Mazda’s reputation for driver-centric vehicles faltered with the CX-90. The steering was surprisingly heavy, making parking cumbersome and long drives tiring. The lane keep assist system added to the frustration by creating resistance at the wheel, requiring constant corrections. Snowy conditions exacerbated these issues, leading us to disable most driver-assist features entirely.
Plug-In Hybrid Capability: A Letdown
Mazda advertises up to 26 miles of all-electric range, but real-world results varied significantly. In cold Michigan winters, the range plummeted to as low as 14 miles, diminishing the hybrid’s appeal. Moreover, the gas engine frequently engaged unnecessarily, further undermining the plug-in hybrid’s efficiency.
Technology and Infotainment: Counterintuitive at Best
The 12.3-inch infotainment screen felt dated. It only supports touch functionality with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Other controls, such as the gearshift and temperature toggles, were unintuitive. Pairing issues with phones and an unreliable wireless charger added to the frustration.
Additionally, the infotainment system lacked situational awareness. Alerts about storms in distant states became persistent distractions, demonstrating poor integration of location-based services.
Reliability Concerns: Frequent Recalls
Throughout the year, we encountered numerous recalls, addressing issues like:
- Camera display glitches
- Sudden loss of power steering assist
- Unintended braking when reversing or mistaking shadows for obstacles
- Adaptive cruise control errors, causing sudden and unsafe deceleration
These concerns, while eventually resolved, detracted from the ownership experience.
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Final Thoughts: A Missed Opportunity
With a starting price of $58,325 (as tested: $59,975), the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid offers a premium feel and commendable design. However, its transmission issues, poor hybrid performance, and clunky tech leave much to be desired. While maintenance costs were reasonable at $184.74, the frequent recalls and quirks overshadowed the positives.
Mazda enthusiasts may appreciate its style and effort, but the CX-90 falls short as a dependable, family-friendly SUV. It’s a vehicle with potential, but until Mazda addresses its critical flaws, we cannot wholeheartedly recommend it.
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