2024 Mazda CX-90 breaks cover: Is all-new 8-seater flagship Mazda's ticket to luxury?

After weeks of teaser videos and images, Mazda North American Operations (Mazda USA) has finally uncovered the 2024 Mazda CX-90 three-row large crossover. Built on Mazda's all-new large platform, the Mazda CX-90 will be made available in the US market to replace the CX-9 with an all-new electrified powertrain that will feature the brand's new inline-six turbo motor and a plug-in hybrid.

As with every other Mazda model, the CX-90 is designed with the driver in mind. It will also be able to seat up to eight passengers in its more expansive, longer, and more lavishly laid out interiors. 

Seating configurations offer a bench or captain's chair layout for the second row as well as a two- or three-seater option for the third row.

Peak performance

Mazda's all-new large platform underpins the CX-90. Configured with a front-engine, rear wheel-bias all-wheel drive longitudinal layout, the CX-90 is the second new-generation model from the Hiroshima-based brand after the Mazda CX-60 to be driven primarily by the rear wheels.

It will also feature Kinematic Posture Control, a software feature initially developed for the MX-5 that limits body roll on tight corners. Mazda's i-Activ all-wheel drive continues to provide grip in various scenarios and has been adapted to the high-output powertrain. 

The Mazda CX-90's all-new 3-Skyactiv G 3.3-liter inline-six turbocharged engine outputs 345 PS and 500 Nm of torque with premium fuel. It is the most powerful mass-production engine produced by the brand. It also has M-Hybrid Boost (mild-hybrid system) that helps with fuel efficiency and smoother off-the-line acceleration through an electric motor placed between the engine and transmission. 

The other powertrain option, the new e-Skyactiv PHEV, has a  2.5-liter four-cylinder mated to an electric motor and a 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery. With 323 PS and 500 Nm of torque, it can operate solely in electric motor drive and is tuned for the American market to deliver performance and efficiency.

Both powertrains will have an all-new eight-speed transmission with a torque converter for smooth and direct acceleration.

The ultimate expression of Kodo

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 maximizes the new large platform with its wider body, fenders, and longer wheelbase as it projects refined performance. As with earlier evolved Kodo designs, the CX-90 uses reflections of lights and shadows to accentuate its sleek design language. 

New 21-inch diamond-cut wheels with a black metallic finish come with the CX-90. Mazda's new Artisan Red color, developed specifically for the CX-90, will also be available as a paint option.

Inside, Japanese aesthetics is the central theme, with Nappa leather, wood, and a new stitched fabric material on the dash. Mazda says this finish and deliberate use of negative space is inspired by hand-bookbinding and Japanese weaving known as Kumihimo.

Mix of tradition and tech

The Mazda CX-90 also introduces new technology and premium convenience features such as a digital instrument cluster and a choice between a 10.25-inch or the larger 12.3-inch center display.  The windshield-projected Active Driving Display is now larger in area and type size. 

Physical function buttons will continue to complement interior styling and promote ease of use and safety. A 12-speaker Bose audio system is also available, along with wireless phone charging. A 360-view monitor and See-Through View monitor will also help drivers in parking maneuvers. At the same time, a rear power liftgate with programmable height adjustment is standard. 

Mazda i-Activsense features such as Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Lane-Keep Assist, and Rear Seat Alert are also included. 

No official pricing has been announced yet by Mazda USA, but given that it will replace the CX-9 in that market, estimates say it will start at around US$ 42,000 or equivalent to ₱2,297,400. With Mazda Philippines already pricing its top-of-the-line CX-9 at ₱2,990,000, expect the CX-90 to break the three million mark once it arrives. 

Do you think the 2024 Mazda CX-90 will make you consider Mazda as a luxury brand?