MAZDA STEPS UP THE GAME WITH ALL-NEW CX-90!

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

Who would have thought a zero can make a huge load of difference? As in the all-new CX-90 replacing the CX-9 as the Mazda flagship crossover in 2024. We have always been fans of the CX-9 for its tremendous performance, and more than anything, its ability to carry passengers and cargo in comfort. Based on a fresh platform, its replacement, wider, longer and with an increase of 7.5 inches in wheelbase, ups the ante with more premium features and a potent powertrain. And the CX-90 is available in several trims to meet the needs of the diverse buyer.

Under the long hood of the CX-90 sits an e-Skyactiv G 3.3-liter inline-6 turbo engine that cranks out 340 horsepower @ 6000 rpm and 369 pounds-feet of torque @ 4500 rpm. It is enhanced by a 48-volt mild hybrid or rather an electric motor placed between the engine and transmission. The previous 6-speed auto gearbox is now replaced by an 8-speed transmission. Suspension is handled via a double wishbone in the front and a multilink rear with stabilizer bars at both ends. Kinematic positive control helps maintainstability on winding roads. The electric-power assist steering is direct and precise. Swap the MI-Drive for sport, off-road or tow modes, which incidentally is up by 1,500 to 5,000 pounds.

Chrome is sprinkled generously on and around the front fender, bumper and grille with piano black surround. Nappa leather and splashes of maple wood lend classiness to the roomy and luxurious cabin. The quilted/piped, second-row Captain’s chairs, which can slide fore and aft, as well as the 50/50 third-row seat, will be useful if traveling with children. After all, the CX-90 boasts a cavernous 141.6 cubic feet of space. But what will grab your attention instantly are suede-like hanging stitches on the dashboard, specially inspired by hand-book binding and an intricate Japanese weaving technique. Analog instrument gauges are crystal clear in the 12.3-inch meter display. Also, standard are tri-zone auto a/c, 8-way power heated/cooled seats, 12.3-inch infotainment screen coupled with command control, power lift gate, head-up display, tilt/telescopic steering column, second-row window sun shades, push-button start and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.

Dual front, knee and side airbags, side curtain airbag for all rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution, dynamic stability control and traction control, antiskid system with rollover sensor, front seat active-head restraints, three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear backup sensors, blind spot and 360-degree monitors, lane keep assist/departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, front/rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system are standard. Lest we forget, G-Vectoring Control (uses engine timing for more accurate steering inputs) and Smart City Brake Support (designed to reduce rear-end collisions by stopping at low speeds before a frontal impact).

The outgoing CX-9 was never a run-of-the-mill crossover SUV. Neither is its substitute, the CX-90, which touts tremendous power, quick acceleration, excellent people- and cargo-hauling capabilities, and in the looks department, it scores a point or two for bold styling.

CX-90 TURBO S (PREMIUM PLUS)

Tires: P275/44R21

Wheelbase: 122.8 inches

Length: 201.6 inches

Width: 84.9 inches

Height: 68.7 inches

Weight: 4,899 pounds

Fuel capacity: 19.6 gallons

City: 23 mpg

Highway: 28 mpg

Base price: $59,950

Price as tested: $61,920

Web site: www.mazdausa.com

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