2024 Mazda CX-90: Ambitious Luxury SUV with Complicated Engineering

Introduction

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 represents a bold new direction for the Japanese automaker as it aims to position itself in the luxury market. This all-new three-row SUV introduces Mazda's first inline-6 engine and mild hybrid system, packaged in an upscale design. But does the CX-90's ambitious engineering deliver a true luxury experience? Let's take a deep dive into this important new model.

Powertrain Overview

At the heart of the CX-90 is Mazda's new 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 engine. This is a significant departure from Mazda's typical 4-cylinder offerings and signals the brand's upmarket intentions. Some key details about this new powertrain:

• Inline-6 configuration provides smooth power delivery
• Rear-wheel drive based platform with available all-wheel drive
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• 48V mild hybrid system for improved efficiency
• Up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
• EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined fuel economy

On paper, this powertrain looks impressive and competitive with other luxury SUVs. The inline-6 layout in particular promises refined performance. However, the execution reveals some questionable engineering choices.

Engine Design and Complexity

While the inline-6 engine is an exciting addition, Mazda made some perplexing decisions in its design:

• Rear-mounted timing chain requires engine removal for service
• High pressure fuel pump driven by complex chain system
• Direct injection only, which may lead to carbon buildup issues
• Extremely tight packaging leaves little room for maintenance

The rear timing chain layout in particular seems unnecessarily complex. This will make routine maintenance much more difficult and expensive compared to a conventional front-mounted timing chain.

The engine also uses two separate cooling systems - one for the main engine and another liquid-to-air intercooler system for the turbocharger. While potentially more efficient, this adds further complexity.

Mild Hybrid System

Mazda's new "M Boost" mild hybrid system aims to improve efficiency, but the execution leaves something to be desired:

• Small 48V electric motor integrated with transmission
• Can provide light power assist and enable engine start/stop
• Replaces conventional starter and alternator
• Adds significant complexity for minimal real-world benefit

The mild hybrid integration requires a specially-designed clutch system instead of a traditional torque converter. This introduces more potential failure points without delivering full hybrid capabilities.

Transmission and Driveline

The CX-90 uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, but with some unique elements:

• No torque converter - uses electronically controlled clutch instead
• Integrated 48V electric motor
• Rear-wheel drive based platform
• Available i-Activ all-wheel drive system

The lack of a torque converter is an unusual choice that may impact smoothness and durability compared to conventional automatics. The rear-drive platform does provide better driving dynamics than typical front-drive crossovers.

Suspension and Handling

The CX-90 uses a fairly conventional suspension setup:

• Front: MacPherson struts
• Rear: Multi-link independent suspension
• No rear anti-roll bar

The lack of a rear anti-roll bar is surprising for a vehicle of this size and may contribute to body roll during cornering. Overall, the suspension tuning seems to prioritize comfort over sporty handling.

Exterior Design

The CX-90's exterior styling builds on Mazda's "Kodo" design language with an upscale twist:

• Long hood emphasizes the longitudinal engine layout
• Slim LED headlights and taillights
• Large grille with intricate mesh pattern
• Sculpted body sides reduce visual bulk
• Available 21-inch wheels

Overall, the design successfully conveys a premium image without resorting to excessive chrome or overstyling. The proportions nicely disguise the CX-90's large size.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the CX-90 aims for a minimalist luxury aesthetic:

• Clean dashboard design with limited physical buttons
• 12.3-inch central touchscreen
• Available digital gauge cluster
• Three rows of seating with room for up to 8 passengers
• Premium materials including Nappa leather and real wood trim

The infotainment system uses Mazda's latest software, which is improved but still not class-leading in terms of responsiveness or features. Physical climate controls are a welcome usability touch.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The CX-90 comes standard with Mazda's i-Activsense suite of safety features:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning and lane keep assist
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control

An interesting addition is the use of side-facing radar sensors for improved cross-traffic detection. This allows the CX-90 to better detect potential collisions from the side when pulling out of parking spots or intersections.

Driving Impressions

Behind the wheel, the CX-90 delivers a mixed experience:

• Smooth and refined inline-6 engine
• Noticeable delays from mild hybrid system
• Comfortable ride but significant body roll in corners
• Feels heavy during acceleration and braking
• Quiet cabin at highway speeds

The inline-6 engine provides ample power, but the mild hybrid integration causes some drivability quirks. There's often a noticeable delay when accelerating from a stop as the system juggles between electric and gas power.

Handling is less sporty than expected from Mazda, with noticeable body lean during cornering. The steering is precise but lacks feedback. Overall, the driving experience prioritizes comfort over engagement.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is offered in several trim levels:

• 3.3 Turbo Select
• 3.3 Turbo Preferred
• 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus
• 3.3 Turbo Premium
• 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus

Pricing starts around $40,000 for base models and can exceed $60,000 for fully-loaded versions. This positions the CX-90 as a premium offering but still undercuts some European luxury competitors.

Fuel Economy

Despite the mild hybrid system, fuel economy is only average for the class:

• EPA estimated 25 mpg combined
• 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

These figures are competitive with non-hybrid luxury SUVs but fall short of full hybrid competitors. The minimal efficiency gains call into question the value of the complex mild hybrid system.

Cargo and Practicality

As a three-row SUV, the CX-90 offers good but not class-leading space:

• 14.9 cubic feet behind 3rd row
• 40.0 cubic feet behind 2nd row
• 74.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded

The third row is tight for adults but usable for children. Second-row captain's chairs are available for easier third-row access. A power liftgate comes standard on all trims.

Reliability Concerns

While it's too early to judge long-term reliability, the CX-90's complex engineering raises some red flags:

• New and unproven inline-6 engine design
• Complicated mild hybrid integration
• Difficult access for routine maintenance
• Potential for expensive repairs due to tight packaging

Mazda has a good overall reputation for reliability, but the CX-90 represents a significant departure from their typical designs. Cautious buyers may want to wait for real-world reliability data before purchasing.

Competitors

The CX-90 faces stiff competition in the premium three-row SUV segment:

• Acura MDX
• Infiniti QX60
• Genesis GV80
• Volvo XC90
• Audi Q7
• BMW X5

Compared to these rivals, the CX-90 offers competitive features and performance at a lower price point. However, it lacks the brand cachet of established luxury marques.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is an ambitious attempt to elevate the brand into true luxury territory. It offers impressive technology, refined styling, and a powerful new inline-6 engine. However, Mazda's reach may have exceeded their grasp in some areas.

The overly complex powertrain design prioritizes novelty over real-world benefits. The mild hybrid system adds cost and complication without delivering significant efficiency gains. And the driving experience, while comfortable, lacks the sporty character Mazda is known for.

For buyers seeking a premium three-row SUV with unique styling and features, the CX-90 is worth consideration. But those prioritizing long-term ownership costs or driving engagement may be better served by more conventional competitors.

Ultimately, the CX-90 showcases Mazda's engineering prowess but also demonstrates the challenges of breaking into the luxury market. With some refinement, future iterations could iron out the current model's quirks and deliver a more compelling overall package. For now, the CX-90 remains an intriguing but flawed first effort in Mazda's upmarket journey.

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