2025 Mazda CX-90 Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

So, here’s the scoop on the 2025 Mazda CX-90. It’s stepping into the ring as a strong contender in the bustling three-row SUV market. You know, this isn’t just another SUV; it’s Mazda’s flagship model—kind of a big deal for them. This year, they’ve rolled out some impressive upgrades and lowered prices across the board, making it a tempting choice for anyone looking for a top-notch driving experience while still being family-friendly.

The CX-90 is up against some heavy hitters like the Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride. Each of these rivals has its own selling points. The Grand Highlander is great for space and, of course, Toyota’s known for reliability. Then you’ve got the Pilot, which is all about family-friendly features and practicality. And, we mean, the Palisade and Telluride? They’ve raised the bar when it comes to the value and that fancy feel you usually only find in pricier models.

Mazda’s kind of carved out a niche for the CX-90 by honing in on the driving experience and those premium touches. For 2025, there’s a new Premium Sport trim that starts at $46,400. This one comes with some cool black accents and sporty styling that’s sure to catch the eye of driving enthusiasts. It’s a smart move, allowing the CX-90 to not just compete with the mainstream crowd but also to lure in folks who might be eyeing entry-level luxury SUVs.

When it comes to pricing, Mazda is clearly aiming to stay competitive. The base Select trim kicks off at $37,845, which is a nice drop of $1,750 from last year. The lineup goes up from there—Preferred is at $41,945, Premium Sport at $46,400, Premium Plus at $49,400, S Premium at $52,950, and it tops out with the S Premium Plus at $56,950. The biggest price cuts are on those higher trims, with some models offering up to $3,000 in savings. Pretty sweet deal, right?

What sets the CX-90 apart is its rear-wheel-drive platform. That’s not something you see much in this segment; most of its rivals stick to front-wheel drive. This choice in engineering really impacts everything, from how it drives to how the interior is laid out, giving it a more engaging feel for drivers.

For the tech-savvy folks out there, Mazda’s upped its game for 2025, making a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster standard on most trims. This, along with the high-quality materials and solid build, makes a strong case for the CX-90 as a near-luxury option.

In the end, how well the CX-90 does will depend on those buyers who care more about the driving experience and that premium vibe than just having the most space inside. Sure, other models might give you more cargo room or third-row seating, but the CX-90 responds with better handling, stronger engine choices, and a more refined ride. It’s about the experience, after all!

So, let’s talk about the standard engine first, which you’ll find in the non-S trims. It’s a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six that cranks out 280 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and a solid 332 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. This engine also comes with mild hybrid tech, and that really helps with smooth power delivery plus great fuel economy—24 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway. And, here’s the kicker: it runs on regular unleaded fuel, which is a big plus for anyone watching their wallet.

Now, if you step up to the S trims, you get the high-output version of that same 3.3-liter engine. This one’s a beast—Mazda cranked up the boost pressure to 19 PSI, squeezing out 340 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. It’s got some serious get-up-and-go, hitting 0-60 mph in about 6.3 seconds. But, of course, there’s a catch: you’ll need to use premium unleaded fuel to unleash all that power.

Then there’s the plug-in hybrid option, which is kind of cool in its own right. It pairs a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, giving you a combined output of 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Plus, it can go up to 26 miles on electric power alone. The PHEV system delivers that electric torque right off the bat, which helps to hide any turbo lag, making for a quick and smooth take-off.

All three powertrains are linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission, a refreshing change from the CVTs you often see in this segment. This traditional automatic gives you those satisfying gear changes and a more engaging feel behind the wheel. The transmission is smart too—it knows when to downshift and keeps the gears right where they need to be when taking corners. You’ve got paddle shifters, but they’re not true manual controls; the system automatically shifts up at the redline and doesn’t hold gears forever.

In real-world tests, that high-output engine shows what it can do, providing a strong midrange punch and reliable passing power. Sure, you might notice a bit of turbo lag at lower RPMs, but once it kicks in, the power comes on smooth and strong. And the engine sound? It’s refined, with just a hint of sportiness when you push it, yet it remains calm during everyday driving.

As for the mild hybrid system in the non-PHEV engines, it’s pretty much working behind the scenes. It seamlessly handles stop-start functionality and helps out with power at lower speeds. It can even shut off the engine when you’re cruising at steady speeds, starting back up smoothly when you need it.

Finally, the all-wheel-drive system comes standard on all trims, giving you confidence in all kinds of weather. You’ll feel the rear-biased nature of the setup when you drive it a bit more enthusiastically, where it sends power to the rear wheels first until it needs to engage the front ones. This gives the CX-90 a more dynamic driving experience compared to those front-wheel-drive rivals.

The braking system in the CX-90 shows how dedicated Mazda is to both safety and performance. You know, with the hardware and tuning they’ve put in, it gives you confidence no matter what kind of driving situation you find yourself in. Up front, there are these impressive 13.7-inch ventilated discs, while the rear has 13.8-inch solid discs. That’s a solid setup for a vehicle this size, giving it plenty of stopping power.

When it comes to performance testing, the CX-90 shines bright.we mean, it can go from 60 to 0 mph in just 120 feet—that’s actually better than most in its class. This fantastic braking isn’t just because of the big brake size, but also thanks to a well-tuned brake booster and the pedal design.

Speaking of the brake pedal, it feels firm and progressive, which is great for everyday driving. You can apply the brakes smoothly without getting that harsh bite that some cars have. So, stops feel seamless, making it more comfortable for everyone in the car.

Now, about brake fades—this thing handles repeated heavy braking like a champ. It has a solid thermal capacity that’s more than enough for regular family needs, whether you’re tackling mountain roads or towing stuff. And yeah, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, all supported by that reliable braking system.

When we talk about emergency braking, both the mechanical system and the electronic aids work well together. The anti-lock braking system kicks in smoothly when you need it, letting you maintain steering control while achieving maximum deceleration. Plus, there’s this nifty brake-based torque vectoring system that keeps you stable during those sharp corners when you’re braking hard.

Mazda has also paid attention to the little things, especially with the regenerative braking in the hybrid models. Swapping between regenerative and traditional friction braking feels super smooth, avoiding that weird, artificial sensation you sometimes get with hybrids. This natural brake feel definitely makes the CX-90 more fun to drive compared to others out there.

The electronic parking brake—it’s standard on all trims and has this handy auto-hold feature that’s a lifesaver in stop-and-go traffic. It engages and disengages without any of the jarring movements you might find in some competitor models. Overall, it’s just a well-thought-out braking system that works great in real-world scenarios.

One of the standout features of the CX-90 has got to be its steering and suspension setup. It’s remarkable for a three-row SUV. We mean, when you think about family vehicles, you don’t usually picture something that handles this sporty. The secret sauce? A sophisticated suspension design, featuring a double wishbone up front and a multi-link arrangement in the rear.

About the steering – It’s got this exceptional feedback and precision that feels heftier than what you’d typically find in this category. That extra weight? It makes driving a lot more fun and engaging. You can really feel the road, which is nice. Plus, the variable assistance is spot on—it gives you more help when you’re parking but still keeps that road feel when you’re cruising on the highway.

Mazda has clearly prioritized handling with the suspension tuning. You’ve got this firm damping that keeps the body nice and controlled when you’re cornering. The front and rear stabilizer bars do a great job of managing roll without making you feel every little bump in the road. Sure, the ride might be a bit firmer than some of its rivals—especially with those 21-inch wheels—but it never crosses the line into being uncomfortable or jarring.

Now, the rear-wheel-drive platform plays a big role in how the CX-90 handles. The weight distribution between the front and rear is more balanced compared to front-wheel-drive competitors, which leads to a more neutral driving experience. This setup also enhances the steering geometry, giving it that natural feel that’s often hard to find.

Impressively, the suspension manages the CX-90’s weight really well. It keeps its cool during those quick turns and when hitting uneven surfaces. The damping rates are carefully balanced—though, fair warning, some folks might find it a tad firmer than what they’d expect from a family SUV.

You’ve also got these advanced chassis control systems that work seamlessly with the mechanical bits. The G-Vectoring Control Plus system is pretty nifty; it subtly tweaks engine torque and applies light braking to boost steering response and stability. And if you’ve got the all-wheel-drive version, it can shift power between the axles to optimize traction and handling.

The electric power steering varies depending on the drive mode. So, in comfort mode, you get extra assistance, but if you switch to sports mode, you still get that feedback you want. The steering ratio is great, too—it’s designed so that you don’t have to move your hands around a lot to maneuver, which is a nice touch. It avoids that twitchiness that sometimes makes driving at highway speeds a bit nerve-wracking.

All in all, the chassis setup of the CX-90 gives you a level of driver confidence that’s rare in this segment. While some competitors lean towards a softer, more cushioned feel, the CX-90 shines with its engagement and precision. It’s definitely going to appeal to those who enjoy a more connected driving experience.

When you look at the 2025 CX-90, you’ll notice the wheel and tire options change depending on which trim you choose. It’s interesting! Each setup is designed to strike a balance between looks, comfort, and how the vehicle performs. For the base Select and Preferred trims, you get these 19×8.5-inch alloy wheels. But if you step up to the Premium trims and beyond, you’ll find larger 21×9.5-inch alloys. That’s quite a jump in both size and width, right?

Those 21-inch wheels, especially on the new Premium Sport trim, have this cool dark finish that totally matches the sporty vibe of the model. Plus, with the wider stance and those 275/45R21 tires, you get a bigger contact patch which means better grip and stability. They fill out the wheel wells nicely, giving the CX-90 that upscale look.

Speaking of tires, the choice here is smart too. The 275mm width is great for traction, and the 45-series sidewall hits a nice sweet spot between how it handles and comfort on the road. Sure, the lower profile can make the ride feel a bit firmer, but the way the tires are built helps soften those bumps a little.

For everyday driving, it comes standard with all-season tires that perform well throughout the year. These tires grip the road nicely when it’s dry, and they still hold up well in wet conditions and even some snow, which is essential for a family vehicle that might face all sorts of weather.

What’s really impressive is how well they manage road noise, especially considering those larger wheels. Mazda really pays attention to sound insulation, which keeps the tire noise down, though you might notice the 21-inch wheels do let a bit more road feel-through compared to the 19-inch ones.

About the design! the wheels are crafted with some nice details—machine-finished surfaces and glossy black accents that are on-trend for the premium market. The full gloss black finish on the Premium Sport trim adds an aggressive touch that goes well with other black elements on the exterior.

By offering both 19-inch and 21-inch options, Mazda gives buyers the chance to decide what’s more important to them: a comfy ride or a sportier look. Those 19-inch wheels, with their taller sidewalls, are definitely better for soaking up bumps, making them a solid choice for anyone who values comfort over style.

Now, bigger wheels and tires can affect the turning radius a bit. But don’t worry, the CX-90 is still pretty easy to maneuver for its size. The steering assist is done just right, managing the extra weight of the front wheels without feeling too light or disconnected. So, yeah, there’s a lot to unpack with the CX-90’s wheel and tire setup!

The interior design of the CX-90 shows off Mazda’s knack for that premium vibe. You can see it in the smart material choices and stylish design details they’ve sprinkled throughout. The dashboard has this nice horizontal layout that opens up the cabin, while the clean lines and lack of clutter make it feel upscale, you know?

When you touch things, you can tell they’ve really focused on quality. The upper dash is all soft-touch materials, with neat stitching that looks sharp. And then you’ve got the center console and door panels featuring a wood-like finish—okay, it’s not actual wood, but honestly, it does a great job of imitating those natural grain patterns. If you go for the Premium Plus trim or higher, you’ll see even more of these premium touches, especially across the dashboard and door panels.

Now, there’s this new tan interior option, which is exclusive to the 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus. It brings in a classy two-tone color scheme with suede inserts and some cool contrasting black elements. This combo adds some visual interest and boosts that premium feel. And don’t forget about the quilted white Nappa leather option, which is another upscale choice that sets apart the higher trims.

Looking at the instrument panel, it revolves around a 12.3-inch digital display that’s much standard now across most trims. The graphics? Crisp and clear. There are different visual themes depending on the drive mode you choose. For example, in Sport mode, you get these bold red accents and a more aggressive gauge design. On the flip side, normal mode keeps things nice and traditional, which is a nice touch.

Lighting, it’s key to creating that high-end atmosphere inside. LED lighting is standard in all trims, but the premium versions take it up a notch with extra accent lighting that highlights the cabin’s architectural features. It sets a sophisticated mood at night, but it’s not over the top or distracting.

The center stack is designed with a sense of restraint, featuring physical climate controls that feel good to the touch and are easy to reach while driving. That 12.3-inch infotainment display is placed high on the dashboard, which means you don’t have to shift your gaze too much when you’re on the road. Plus, it’s non-touch, so no worrying about fingerprints messing up the look.

When it comes to storage, they’ve thought about practicality without losing that premium flair. The center console might not be the biggest out there, but it’s got these clean lines and high-quality materials. Up front, you’ll find USB ports in smart spots and a wireless charging pad in the higher trims—great for keeping you connected without sacrificing style.

The attention to detail extends to elements like the frameless rearview mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrast stitching, and metallic accents throughout the cabin. Even secondary controls like window switches and door handles exhibit a solid feel and precise operation that reinforce the premium experience.

The 2025 CX-90’s exterior design showcases Mazda’s evolution of its “Kodo” design language, presenting a sophisticated and athletic presence that sets it apart in the three-row SUV segment. The front fascia features a distinctive grille treatment with vertical slots, finished in matte black for the Select trim and gloss black for higher trim levels, creating a premium first impression.

The LED headlight design contributes significantly to the vehicle’s character, with smaller housing units than its predecessor, the CX-9. The integration of LED daytime running lamps into the grille’s upper edge creates a cohesive look, though some reviewers note that the flat black trim pieces between the headlights could benefit from additional lighting elements to enhance the design.

Moving on, it’s clear that Mazda has put a lot of thought into the surface design of the CX-90. You’ve got these clean body lines and not too many sharp edges, giving it that smooth, fluid look. The long hood and rearward cab proportions, thanks to the rear-wheel-drive platform, really elevate its presence compared to other front-wheel-drive SUVs. And let’s not forget about that new Artisan Red color—it’s been getting a lot of love for how it highlights the vehicle’s curves.

Now, there’s a new Premium Sport trim for 2025. It adds some cool black exterior features, like a black grille surround, badges, and those striking 21-inch wheels. This package totally updates the CX-90’s look, catering to buyers who crave a more aggressive style. You’ll also notice the body-colored wheel arches and lower moldings that keep everything looking neat, while the chrome or black trim (depending on what trim you choose) adds just the right touch.

The side details are neat too—there are functional air curtains behind the front wheels and a character line that subtly rises towards the back. It gives this sense of motion, you know? The greenhouse boasts a floating roof effect with blacked-out pillars, and the window line gently rises toward the rear, balancing both style and visibility for the third row. Oh, and aluminum roof rails come standard, shining bright in silver on the Premium trim and higher.

Let’s not overlook the rear design, which shows some restraint. Those full LED taillights have a unique lighting signature, making it look sharp. The tailgate sports a short roof spoiler, but some of our reviewers think a longer one would fit better with the overall proportions. And while the lower bumper is sleek and elegant, it does skip on exposed exhaust finishers, which might not sit well with those looking for a sportier edge.

At around 200 inches long, the CX-90 has a commanding road presence without feeling too bulky. Its proportions cleverly disguise its size and keep it looking dynamic—definitely a step up from more utilitarian options out there. And with the Premium Sport trim’s black accents and larger wheels, it emphasize the sportiness of the chassis. Quite an impressive package, if you ask us!

The CX-90’s technology suite centers around a 12.3-inch infotainment display that’s now standard across most trim levels. Unlike many competitors, this system utilizes a rotary control interface rather than touch functionality, except when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. While this approach requires some adjustment, the controller’s positioning and intuitive menu structure make operation surprisingly natural once familiar.

The digital instrument cluster, also measuring 12.3 inches, represents a significant upgrade for 2025. The display’s graphics adapt based on drive modes, with sport mode introducing red accents and more aggressive gauge designs, while normal mode maintains a cleaner, more traditional appearance. The clarity and responsiveness of the display prove impressive, with smooth animations and excellent visibility in varying light conditions.

The head-up display, available on premium trims, provides comprehensive information without requiring eyes to leave the road. The system displays current speed, speed limits, navigation directions, and safety system status. The display’s brightness and position are easily adjustable, maintaining visibility even through polarized sunglasses.

The Bose 12-speaker audio system, standard from the new Premium Sport trim upward, delivers impressive sound quality. The system’s tuning shows particular attention to clarity and sound staging, though some might find the bass response slightly heavy. The audio system’s integration with the cabin acoustics demonstrates careful consideration of speaker placement and sound insulation.

You know, Mazda seems to get what people expect from a premium vehicle, starting right off with the seating. The driver’s seat is standard with eight-way power adjustments and lumbar support, which means you can find just the right position. And, if you go for the higher-end models, there are memory settings too—super handy for families or couples who share the car.

Now, when it comes to the front seats, they’ve put a lot of thought into the cushioning and support. The seats use multi-density foam, which is great because it gives you that comfy feeling at first but also holds up well over the long haul. Although, just a heads-up, some folks might think the thigh cushions are a tad on the short side. Most trims come with heating options, and if you step up to the Premium Plus or higher, you get ventilation as well—perfect for those hot summer days or chilly winters.

Moving to the second row, you’ve got options! You can choose between a bench seat or a captain’s chair. And let us tell you, the captain’s chairs in the premium trims are pretty impressive. They come with a sleek center console that actually has more storage than the one up front. Plus, those seats slide and recline, making it easier to adjust legroom or help folks get to the third row without too much hassle.

And then there’s the climate control—Mazda has really thought this through. They’ve included a standard three-zone automatic system, which is super user-friendly. Rear passengers get their own vents and controls, so everyone can be comfy. If you opt for the Premium Plus trim and above, you’ll even find heated seats in the second row, and the S Premium Plus adds ventilation too—now that’s a nice touch for this market!

On the convenience side, there’s a power moonroof starting from the Preferred trim, and if you go for the Premium Plus or higher, you get a panoramic moonroof. It opens up the cabin, letting in a ton of natural light, plus there’s a power sunshade to help manage brightness. Also, the frameless rearview mirror comes with three HomeLink buttons on the premium trims, which is great for controlling your garage door or gate.

When we talk about storage, there’s definitely some smart design going on, even if there are a few trade-offs. The front center console looks nice, but it doesn’t offer as much storage as some competitors. Luckily, the door pockets are quite generous, especially in the second row—they can fit multiple water bottles, which is always a plus.

Noise management? Yeah, they’ve paid attention to that too. With solid sound insulation and acoustic glass, you can enjoy a quiet ride. The engine noise is kept in check, although you might notice some tire noise with those 21-inch wheels, especially on rougher roads.

Technology integration focuses on usability, with wireless phone charging available on Premium Plus and above, positioned conveniently in front of the shifter. USB ports are strategically placed throughout the cabin, including in the third row, ensuring device connectivity for all passengers.

The safety package of the 2025 CX-90 kicks off with a shiny IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, which is the best you can get when it comes to safety designations. This rating? Well, it’s a clear indicator of how well the vehicle performs in crash tests and how effective its active safety systems are. For families looking for peace of mind, that’s a big deal.

The standard safety features -You’ve got an advanced set of driver assistance technologies here, starting with automatic emergency braking. This feature works like a charm, whether you’re cruising through the city or hitting the highway. It knows when to step in—giving you a heads-up before it kicks in, yet it’s quick to act in moments that matter.

Then there’s the lane-keeping assistance and lane departure warning systems. These are particularly refined. Unlike some other systems that can feel a bit overbearing, the CX-90’s approach is more subtle, offering gentle nudges while still keeping that natural feel of steering. And its ability to pick up on different lane markings and road edges? Super impressive, especially when you’re actually on the road.

Moving on to the adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, this feature operates smoothly, no matter how the traffic flow changes. It keeps a safe distance and adjusts speed gradually—none of that jarring, sudden braking that can make you cringe during your daily drives.

Blind spot monitoring paired with rear cross-traffic alert is especially handy, especially considering the size of the CX-90. The warnings it provides for lane changes are quite adequate, and that rear cross-traffic alert helps when you’re dealing with the limited visibility that comes with three-row SUVs. If you opt for premium trims, you’ll also get front and rear parking sensors, which work nicely alongside the standard backup camera.

The 360-degree camera system, available on premium trims, provides excellent visibility for parking maneuvers. The system’s resolution is notably clear, and the different view options, including a transparent view of the vehicle’s front end, prove particularly useful in tight spaces.

The CX-90 stands out in the crowded three-row SUV market, and it all starts with its cool rear-wheel-drive platform. This engineering choice? Well, it affects everything from how the weight is balanced to how the car handles, making for a driving experience that’s just more fun compared to your typical front-wheel-drive SUVs.

The 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, which can crank out 340 horsepower in the S trim models, really delivers. It’s impressive for a vehicle of this size. You’ll notice how refined it feels during daily drives, with a smooth delivery of power and a nice, subtle engine growl when you hit the gas. Sure, there’s a bit of turbo lag when you’re at low RPMs, but once it kicks in, that strong midrange torque makes passing on the highway feel like a breeze.

When it comes to steering, the response is spot-on for a three-row SUV. The steering feels heavier compared to other models, which gives you real feedback about the road and how much grip you have. It’s engaging in a way that doesn’t tire you out even on long drives. Plus, the variable assistance is well-tuned, making it easier to maneuver in parking lots while still keeping that connection to the road at higher speeds.

The eight-speed automatic transmission? It’s smart. Shifts are smooth and seamless during regular driving, but when you’re looking for some extra power, it downshifts quickly. Now, the paddle shifters don’t give you full manual control, but honestly, the way the transmission is set up, you probably won’t miss that too much.

As for ride quality, it reflects Mazda’s sporty tuning approach. The suspension does a great job of keeping the body steady through turns, and it handles most bumps and imperfections on the road quite well. It’s a bit firmer than some competitors, especially with those 21-inch wheels, but it never gets uncomfortable. This blend of sporty handling and comfort makes the CX-90 shine, whether you’re looking at mainstream models or luxury ones.

The all-wheel-drive system has a rear-biased design that comes into play during spirited driving, giving it more neutral handling than you might expect in this segment. It can shift power between the axles, keeping you steady and enhancing the overall driving experience—especially when the weather isn’t perfect.

About the brakes – they’re solid, giving you great stopping power with a pedal feel that feels just right. You can easily modulate it during everyday driving, and it responds reassuringly when you need to stop quickly. The brake-based torque vectoring system helps with turning responsiveness too, and it doesn’t feel forced or artificial.

For daily use, the CX-90 is practical. Visibility is good, and the size is manageable, which is sometimes hard to find in larger vehicles. It has a decent turning radius for its length, and those camera systems and parking sensors? They make it a lot easier to navigate tight spots. So, whether you’re commuting or heading out on a family road trip, this SUV really delivers.

The CX-90’s second-row seating is flexible, offering two main setups: you can go with a bench seat that fits up to eight passengers or opt for captain’s chairs that accommodate seven. And hey, those second-row dimensions are generous, boasting 39.4 inches of legroom. It’s a solid option in its class, even if it doesn’t quite lead the pack.

Now, if you choose the captain’s chairs, especially in the premium trims, you’re in for a treat. The S Premium Plus trim throws in heating and ventilation for those seats — not something you see every day in this segment. Plus, they’ve got excellent support thanks to multi-density cushioning, which holds up nicely on long trips. The center console between the chairs offers a decent amount of storage too, surprisingly more than what you get up front.

Getting to the third row is made easier because those second-row seats slide forward quite a bit. Sure, the mechanism could be a bit smoother compared to some rivals, but the doors swing open to nearly 90 degrees, making it easier to hop in and out. This is especially handy when you’re wrestling with child seats. Just a heads-up, the LATCH anchors are easy to reach but only on the left side of the third row.

Comfort-wise, the second row is equipped with dedicated climate controls, complete with physical buttons and clear displays. You’ll find multiple USB-C charging ports and well-placed air vents too. If you go for the Premium Plus trim or higher, you even get manual window sunshades — a nice touch for rear passengers. Oh, and the panoramic sunroof, standard on the higher trims, stretches over the second row, giving it a nice, open feel.

As for the third row, it has 30.4 inches of legroom, which is okay for short rides, but it’s not breaking any records. The seats sit quite low to the floor, leading to a knees-up position that might not be the most comfortable for adults on longer drives. Still, Mazda didn’t skimp on the essentials; they’ve included USB-C ports and air vents positioned lower in the cabin walls.

The second-row seats slide and recline, which is a great feature for adjusting space between the rows. This flexibility allows second-row folks to share legroom with those in the third row when needed. The reclining feature has several positions, which can be a lifesaver on long trips.

The materials used in the rear seating areas hold onto that premium vibe we see in the front. Even in the third row, the seat materials and finishes match what’s found elsewhere in the cabin — no cheap feel here. In the higher trims, they’ve even extended leather or Nappa leather across all seating positions.

When it comes to storage for rear passengers, Mazda’s thought of everything. The second-row door pockets are quite spacious, easily fitting in multiple water bottles. If you go for the captain’s chair setup, you get a fancy center console, while bench seat setups come with a fold-down armrest that includes cupholders.

When it comes to the CX-90, cargo capacity is one area where it might not exactly shine compared to some rivals. So, behind the third row, you’ve got about 15.9 cubic feet of space. Now, if you fold that third row down, it opens up to 40.1 cubic feet, and when you drop all the rear seats, you’re looking at a total of 75.2 cubic feet. Sure, these numbers fall a bit short of heavyweights like the Kia Telluride, which offers 87 cubic feet, and the Honda Pilot at 86 cubic feet. But hey, even with those figures, the space feels practical, thanks to some clever design choices.

The power liftgate is standard on every trim, which is nice, and if you go for the Premium trims or higher, you get this hands-free operation feature. You can adjust the opening height, but a few taller folks have pointed out that, even at its highest setting, it might still need a bit more clearance. The load height is on the higher side, which could make it a bit tricky when you’re loading up those heavier items, but it does help keep that premium look of the vehicle intact.

Moving on to the cargo area itself, it comes with some nice touches like LED lighting, multiple tie-down points, and even underfloor storage. There’s this storage well under the floor that’s great for stashing smaller items, and when you fold down the seats, the flat load floor makes it easier to slide in longer items. The third-row seats fold down with manual straps, which is simple enough—though it’s worth noting that power-folding seats aren’t on the menu.

One neat feature is how the second-row seats can slide forward and back, which is super helpful for finding that sweet spot between cargo space and passenger comfort. When you’re using the third row, this sliding capability helps optimize your luggage area while still keeping enough legroom for everyone on board.

Throughout the cabin, you’ll find practical storage solutions that make up for the cargo area’s limitations. The door pockets are quite generous—especially in the second row—and there are various smaller compartments scattered around for your everyday essentials. If you go for the captain’s chair setup in the second row, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the amount of storage in the center console.

Now, the cargo area is 42 inches wide, which means you can fit in some wider items without too much hassle. However, the overall design seems to favor a stylish exterior over maximum cargo space. The flat sides and minimal wheel well intrusion help make the area feel more usable than just the numbers would suggest.

That high load floor might pose a little challenge when it comes to hefting in those heavier items. But hey, it does come with a protective sill plate and sturdy materials that should hold up well over time. Plus, the backs of the folding seats are covered in materials that match the cargo area, giving a nice, consistent look.

As for loading flexibility, you’ve got a 40/20/40 split-folding second row and a 50/50 split third row, which means you can mix and match configurations to fit both passengers and cargo. Some reviewers mention that the lack of a power-folding third row is a downside, but it does keep things reliable and less complicated. So, there you have it—a practical, if not perfect, cargo experience with the CX-90!

So, the 2025 CX-90 is looking really good now, especially with its new pricing. The base Select trim kicks off at $37,845, which is a nice cut of $1,750 compared to last year. And if you look at the higher trims, some are actually dropping even more—up to $3,000! This move puts the CX-90 in a competitive spot against the usual players while still keeping that upscale vibe.

The new Premium Sport trim at $46,400 represents a particularly compelling sweet spot in the lineup. This trim combines the more efficient standard engine running on regular fuel with desirable features like the Bose audio system, 21-inch wheels, and black exterior accents. The value equation here balances performance, features, and efficiency effectively.

When you stack the CX-90’s top trims against luxury brands, it’s impressive. Take the S Premium Plus, for instance. Sure, it’s $56,950, but it’s got features and materials that can easily match or even beat the entry-level luxury competitors that are way pricier. And that inline-six engine? It brings performance that you usually only see in more expensive rides.

Now, if we dive into operating costs, things change a bit depending on what engine you pick. The standard engine running on regular fuel is a big plus for keeping ownership costs low while still delivering solid performance. But, if you go for the high-output engine that requires premium fuel, you’ll want to factor that into your long-term budget. Still, some folks might think the extra performance is worth the extra cost.

Looking at resale values, the CX-90 is projected to hold onto about 59.4% of its value after five years and 60,000 miles. That’s pretty solid, putting it up there with the best in the segment, just behind a few of those Japanese brands. This helps balance out that initial purchase price.

Mazda’s warranty is decent but not the best in class. You get a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. Just keep in mind that they don’t offer complimentary scheduled maintenance like some competitors do, which is something you might want to think about when calculating ownership costs.

Lastly, the CX-90 is kind of stepping into the near-luxury category, which means you’ve got to think carefully about what you want. It definitely offers a more premium feel and better driving dynamics than your typical options out there. But, there’s a trade-off with cargo space and room in the third row. It’s all about weighing those pros and cons based on what you really need.