The Good
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offers numerous advantages, appealing to both heart and mind. Its elegant design and premium interior materials create an emotional connection, while the powerful yet smooth inline-six engines provide an engaging driving experience. Practically, it boasts three-row versatility, available plug-in hybrid efficiency, and Mazda's generally strong reliability. The CX-90 delivers near-luxury comfort and refinement, making it excellent value.
The Bad
As a relatively new model, the 2025 Mazda CX-90's long-term reliability is still unproven, despite Mazda's strong reputation. Some users find the third-row seating to be tighter than competitors, and cargo space behind it is not class-leading. The infotainment system, while visually appealing, can be less intuitive with its rotary controller, especially for smartphone mirroring. Fuel economy, while decent, isn't stellar for non-PHEV models, and pricing can climb quickly.
2025 Mazda CX-90: Quick Overview
Engine Options:
- e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 M-Hybrid Boost: This mild-hybrid powertrain comes in two outputs.
- e-Skyactiv PHEV 2.5L Inline-4: A plug-in hybrid option combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and 17.8 kWh battery.
Horsepower & Torque:
- 3.3L Turbo (Standard Output): 280 hp, 332 lb-ft torque.
- 3.3L Turbo S (High Output): 340 hp, 369 lb-ft torque (achieved with premium fuel).
- 2.5L PHEV: 323 hp (on premium fuel), 369 lb-ft torque.
Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 3.3L Turbo (Standard/High Output): Approximately 23-24 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, 25 MPG combined. (All CX-90 models are AWD).
- 2.5L PHEV: 26 MPG combined (gas-only), 56 MPGe (combined electric and gas), with an estimated 26 miles of all-electric range.
0-60 MPH Acceleration:
- 3.3L Turbo: Around 6.5 - 6.9 seconds.
- 3.3L Turbo S: Approximately 6.3 - 6.5 seconds.
- 2.5L PHEV: Roughly 6.0 - 6.2 seconds.
Towing Capacity:
- Standard (most trims): 3,500 lbs.
- With optional towing package (certain trims/powertrains): Up to 5,000 lbs.
Key Trim-Level Features (Examples):
- Select: Features include i-Activ AWD, 10.25-inch center display, Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, tri-zone automatic climate control, power liftgate, and a comprehensive suite of i-Activsense safety features.
- Preferred: Adds leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, power-adjustable front passenger seat, and second-row retractable window sunshades.
- Premium: Upgrades to 21-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, Bose 12-speaker premium audio system, navigation system, and a driver's seat memory function.
- Premium Plus: Offers Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a head-up display, 360-degree View Monitor, and Traffic Jam Assist. PHEV models offer similar trim progressions with their specific powertrain.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2025 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | CX-90 |
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Pricing
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Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2025 Mazda CX-90 Have?
One of the most significant issues reported for the 2024 model year, and thus something to monitor for the 2025 model, involves the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) for the mild-hybrid system. There was a recall for certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles where a fault within the ISG could lead to engine stalling while driving, resulting in a loss of motive power. This is a critical safety concern that Mazda has addressed with a repair involving inspection and replacement of the ISG if necessary.
Additionally, a recall was issued for 2024 models concerning a transmission software issue that could also lead to a loss of drive power. This highlights that initial production runs of a brand-new platform and powertrain can experience software or component-related "teething problems."
Beyond these recalls, frequently reported minor issues for early CX-90s have included occasional infotainment system glitches, such as freezing or sluggish responses, and temporary connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some owners have also noted what they perceive as inconsistent or clunky shifts from the new 8-speed automatic transmission, particularly during low-speed maneuvers, though this often improves with software updates.
While Mazda generally enjoys a strong reputation for reliability, the CX-90 represents a significant leap with its new rear-wheel-drive platform, inline-six engines, and PHEV technology. Therefore, potential buyers should monitor these early model year issues. It is crucial to ensure that any outstanding recalls have been performed on a used 2024 model and to be aware that new platforms can sometimes take a year or two to fully iron out all manufacturing and software kinks. Long-term durability of the new, more complex powertrains will be something to observe over several years.
How long will the 2025 Mazda CX-90 last?
With regular servicing, including timely oil changes, fluid checks, and adherence to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules, owners can anticipate 10 to 15 years of reliable service. Long-term durability will largely depend on the performance of its new, more complex powertrains: the e-Skyactiv G inline-six engines with their mild-hybrid systems, and the e-Skyactiv PHEV system. While these are designed for robustness, the longevity of components like the 48V mild-hybrid battery, the high-voltage PHEV battery, and the specific 8-speed automatic transmission will be key indicators of long-term ownership costs beyond the warranty period. Early indications from the 2024 model year suggest that monitoring initial software and component issues, like those related to the ISG, will be important for ensuring lasting durability.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard across all trims is the Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring a 10.25-inch center display, with higher trims upgrading to a larger 12.3-inch screen. While the screen supports touch functionality when the vehicle is stopped, it primarily uses a precise HMI Commander rotary control knob and surrounding buttons for operation while driving, which some users find less intuitive for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most trims, alongside a standard six-speaker audio system. Optional or higher-trim enhancements include a premium Bose® 12-speaker audio system, integrated navigation, a larger 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, and a windshield-projected Active Driving Display (head-up display).
Driver-Assistance & Safety (i-Activsense):
Mazda's i-Activsense suite of safety features is robust, with many being standard. These include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Lane-Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support (forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking), and Driver Attention Alert. As you move up the trim levels, additional advanced features become available, such as Traffic Jam Assist, which provides steering and pedal assistance in heavy traffic, a 360-degree View Monitor for enhanced parking visibility, front and rear parking sensors, and Reverse Automatic Braking. Standard passive safety features include a comprehensive airbag system (front, side, curtain, driver's knee), anti-lock brakes, and traction/stability control.
Crash-Test Ratings:
For its debut 2024 model year, the Mazda CX-90 earned the highest distinction from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a Top Safety Pick+, performing exceptionally well in all crashworthiness evaluations and headlight assessments. It also received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These top-tier ratings are expected to carry over unchanged for the 2025 model year, underscoring its strong safety credentials.
What Colors Options are Available?
2025 Mazda CX-90 Prices and Market Value
As the 2025 model is brand new, there's no established "used market" for it yet. However, for the 2024 CX-90, current used market prices for low-mileage examples generally remain strong, typically selling for just under their original MSRP, reflecting a relatively low initial depreciation of perhaps 5-10% for well-maintained models.
Mazda vehicles traditionally exhibit good resale values, and the CX-90 is expected to follow suit, especially given its premium positioning. Depreciation insights suggest that while a new platform might experience a slightly quicker initial depreciation curve than a thoroughly established model, the CX-90's strong performance, appealing design, and advanced features should help it retain value robustly. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the specific powertrain (PHEV models might command a premium), the trim level and included options, overall vehicle condition, maintenance records, and whether any initial model year recalls have been properly addressed.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Cost of Ownership
Maintenance costs for Mazdas are typically competitive. However, the CX-90's new inline-six mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains introduce more complexity, which could translate to potentially higher specialized repair costs once the warranty expires, compared to simpler engines. Early model year recalls highlight the need to monitor potential "new platform" issues. Overall, the CX-90 is neither exceptionally economical nor prohibitively costly to own; it strikes a balance, offering a premium experience with ownership costs aligning with upper-mainstream three-row SUVs.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Fuel Efficiency
2025 Mazda CX-90 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2025 Mazda CX-90 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2025 Mazda CX-90 Compare to Other Vehicle?
Performance: The CX-90 truly stands out here. Its powerful inline-six turbo engines (especially the 340-hp Turbo S) and 323-hp PHEV option offer a more engaging and refined driving experience than most mainstream rivals. It feels more athletic and "driver-focused" than the Honda Pilot or Toyota Grand Highlander, often drawing comparisons closer to premium brands in terms of handling and powertrain smoothness.
Features: Mazda positions the CX-90 as a "premium" offering, and its interior design, material quality, and standard tech reflect this. It rivals the Telluride/Palisade for interior "wow factor" and offers comprehensive safety tech. However, rivals like the Telluride and Palisade often provide more passenger space, especially in the third row, and larger cargo capacities at a similar or even lower price point for comparable features. The CX-90's infotainment system, while visually appealing, relies heavily on a rotary controller, which some find less convenient than the full touchscreens of its competitors for smartphone integration.
Reliability: While Mazda generally boasts an excellent reliability record, the CX-90 is built on an entirely new platform with new powertrains. The 2024 model year experienced significant recalls (e.g., ISG failure, transmission software), which, while addressed, introduce an element of "new model" uncertainty. Established rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander (especially the hybrid variants) have a longer track record of proven reliability.
Price: The CX-90 strategically slots itself between mainstream and luxury. It generally starts higher than base versions of the Telluride/Palisade/Pilot but is more affordable than entry-level MDX or GV80. Top CX-90 trims, however, can reach luxury-brand pricing.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For superior third-row space, overall value, and a more conventional infotainment experience, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade remain compelling choices.
- For unquestionable long-term reliability, maximum passenger/cargo space, and excellent hybrid fuel economy, the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is an exceptional alternative.
- If a truly more luxurious driving experience and badge prestige are paramount, and the budget allows, the Acura MDX or Genesis GV80 would be better, albeit more expensive, options.
Final Verdict: Is the 2025 Mazda CX-90 a Good Vehicle?
It is absolutely worth buying, especially for those prioritizing a "driver's SUV" with a premium feel. For new buyers, selecting the Premium or Premium Plus trims often provides the best blend of features and value, while the Turbo S models cater to performance enthusiasts, and the PHEV is excellent for those seeking efficiency with robust power.
If considering a used model (specifically a 2024 CX-90), it is crucial to verify that all applicable recalls, particularly those concerning the ISG and transmission software, have been properly completed. A certified pre-owned (CPO) 2024 CX-90 might offer excellent value and added peace of mind. However, if your family frequently uses the third row for adults or demands maximum cargo space behind it, or if you prefer a traditional, less complex infotainment interface, exploring alternatives might be prudent. The CX-90 truly shines for those who value style, driving dynamics, and a high-quality interior in a three-row package.