Saw a lot of people here trying to decide between the telluride, Highlander and the CX-90. It’s simple, if interior space is your priority, CX-90 would lose every time, as it was never designed to be a minivan alternative. But if you care about design, craftsmanship, driving dynamics, and how all of them come together as a whole, it would literally be an insult to even compare the CX-90 to the highlander, telluride, or even the MDX. Nobody in their right mind, given they know at least a little bit about cars, would compare a RWD inline-6 turbo setup to a bunch of FWD turbo 4 and V6 cars and ask which is better - they are not even in the same league. Can’t believe we are still having this conversation…
@@mcglovera Not trying to start any car enthusiast beef lol 😂 but I watched all of them. This man just seems to be more detailed about the mechanics of the vehicles
Mazda really did an amazing job. And at a very reasonable price too. Thoroughly enjoyable review! Now let's hope they sell every single one they can make so Mazda and Dave Coleman can give us an Audi A6 competitor.
CX-90 competes with Kia, Hyundai on low end and beats them ( better mpg, more torque, better dynamics @ the same price) and on the high end it competes with Acura Lexus and beats them on price /performance/ mpg. + possibly would steal some sales from Audi / Volvo. Brilliant. Good job Mazda. Waiting for CX-70 now. Big, big expectations! 🤟😎👀
Audi and Volvo caters to a different crowed! Volvo is focusing on going fully electric, and their whole philosophy is minimalistic Scandinavian design! Mazda is just now catching up and still behind
What a surprising segment for Mazda to go to and I applaud them. That exterior is Beautiful and timeless, that color of paint is sensual and sophisticated. Then you opened up the door to the interior which looks elegant and slightly understated. Add to that the sonorous sound of that straight six, and they have a hit!
Gotta love Mazda's way of thinking and going their own and better way than the whole industry. They are my favorite car brand because of their philosophy
@@jamesmin2837 It is impressive because everybody are leaving ICE engine development and killing all internal combustion engines, downsizing etc. The reason is consumption and connected emission goals which are imposed by governments especially in EU with EURO 7 standard, that is so strict that no ICE engine can reach it. So that is the impressive part - apparently nobody but Mazda can meet those emission standards with regular ICE engine.
@@serbzero Close enuff in real life. You know what's not close enough? One vehicle does 5.5s to 60mph, while the other does 6.4s. and very inconsistently. And one requires premium even just to get it's advertised power. Mean while, there's many NA V6 SUVs that here close to Cx90s acceleration whole still sipping regular fuel. Sorry but putting in premium fuel in a 6 cylinder turbo engine to get 6.3s is pathetic. It's even more pathetic the MDX-S. Did you really think inline 6 was more efficient?
One of the best reviews on the CX90. I have a 2016 Cx9. She has been fantastic since day one. This looks and sounds amazing. I am trying to hold out for the CX-70 before I decide. Thanks again great review.
@@MotoManTV Thanks for a great review - like this person, I'm interested in this (but the mandatory captains chairs in the top trims is a no-go), but I am waiting on the CX-70 hoping it has at least low 30's or more cargo space behind the 2nd row (a la BMW X5.) Can you tell us when we can expect to see the CX-70? (Without being disinvited from all future Mazda events that is.)
I hope you get one at home soon. It would seem that the wet plate clutch thingy (that is used instead of a standard torque converter) has some smoothness issues from a start. Perhaps they need to use a more powerful electric motor to help give some more grunt from a standstill. The other problem is a personal one - they need to offer the top Turbo S Premium Plus with an optional bench seat. There are a lot of us that want to put a family of five in the first two rows, leaving the third row flat in the floor and plenty of cargo space. They are not alone in this strange omission, making it difficult for me to find a 50 cu ft plus cargo space vehicle with room for five in the first two rows. Honda and Acura seem to be the logical alternative, but I sure would love to have this straight six rear wheel drive vehicle!
Excellent review! Glad that I found your channel. I am seriously looking at the CX 90 Turbo S trim and this review pretty much answered all of my questions.
This just feels more of a car than the rest of the competitors. Forget the interior trim colours, I am talking about simplicity in design. The dashboard unlike other brands it's not complete display making it feel like a fuckin home gaming setup. So sophisticated.
Huge Mazda fan and I have owned a Mazda 3, two Mazda 6 models, and I just bought the CX-90 Artisan Red with all the bells and whistles. In a nutshell this vehicle is a BEAST! You can feel it when you get behind the wheel. I was on the fence over the Hybrid model until I test drove it and did not like the hybrid whatsoever. The Inline 6 cylinder is the way to go with this car if you want that power. The Arisan Red is by far the best looking "red" car out on the road. Stunning paint job. If you are looking for the Mazda CX-90 in this color, be warned that it is a bit more expensive and harder to find.
Only one thing on my wishlist, a sedan based on this platform. Imagine this but with lower center of gravity, hundreds of pounds lighter and smaller size in general...🤤
Looking at the video and your front passenger seat placement for you being 6 feet tall, you could EASILY move the seat forward more and still be very comfortable.
Definitely don’t agree. The cx-90 exterior design looks even more dated than the cx-9, let alone a Q7. I wish they’d have kept the spirit of the cx-9, it looks far, far better than the cx-90. The only thing saving this cx-90 is the artisan red (which imo looks better than any red in a car I’ve ever seen).
The profile would indicate way more capacity for people but it appears some of that was consumed by the extra bank of cylinders primarily driving the rear that squeezes some height out of the rear seating area. This is a great choice for that young family where dad doesn’t want to be branded with a van. Nice analysis. 💯 14:02
I wish we'd just get the distance from front bumper to steering wheel, or the length from the steering wheel to the rear bumper. Long cars get cramped and short cars roomy, and we don't have good numbers to go off.
Just watched throttle houses upload comparing it to a merc & a bmw X5 not as quick but it’s funny to have them in the same conversation. The CX-90 has always looked good to me but this new model is next level
A bit behind the scenes . . . the search volume on this car is unusually high. The last car that had this type of organic search volume was the Kia Stinger.
Excellent review as usual MM, but where is Coleman? We need us some Coleman…we’re having Coleman withdrawal. We need him to geek out about all the new bits under the hood of the new Inline 6 and PHEV. He needs to tease us about a potential Mazda 6 RWD replacement as well as all the Inside Baseball stuff going on behind the scenes at Mazda North America. Have Kumo book Coleman for a future episode pretty please. Arigatou Gozaimasu!
Kumo already anticipated your needs. In fact, he made a huge change: Coleman gets his own episode! Yes, an entire episode of Dave rambling on as only he can in his technobabbly manner. He covers the entire 'how & why' the CX-90 came to being. And because you guys have asked that we don't cut ANY of what Coleman says, I am not at all in the episode. Look for that in a couple of weeks.
@@jareknowak8712 Actually not, because Germany (where I live) succesfully demanded that E-fuels can be used in new cars after 2035 as well. So the burner will live on in the EU 😁!
@@macstone9719 You are right. But as for now syntetics are way to expensive to be considered as replacement for traditional benzin, for average driver/global scale use. Today people from Deutschland buy gas in Poland (where im from), what will happend if on both sides of the border 1L will cost 5€?
@@jareknowak8712 I am counting on the free market to bring the cost down until 2035. You are right, it's very expensive now. Porsche just built the first pilot project in Chile, where the wind is always blowing to make elctricity. Give it time. For now I am mostly commuting with Autogas, which Poland is famous for, I think 😀.
Sweet VID. The 1st new car I decided to own was a 1974 Mazda RX-4. Mazda steering has always been light as any RX-7 owner can attest to. The Toyota is like a Buick, as the Honda is like an Oldsmobile, and Mazda is the wild child, The Pontiac, the Goat. The GTO.
One more thing you didn’t mention is warranty. If Mazda can made such good quality vehicles, then they should up their warranty coverage to match Hyundai/Kia. Other than price and branding, warranty is an important factor for those looking to purchase rather than lease.
@@mbenton6 exceedingly few customers shop the midsize three row segment for the driving experience. Space is the priority. Even so, the Telluride is widely regarded to have excellent dynamics and fit/finish for the class. And most outlets rank Kia above Mazda when it comes to reliability. There a lot of new technology in this CX-90 that's new to the brand. We'll see how that shakes out.
@@JDubbs07 I guess I am the exception, as I am looking for a family hauler that drives and handles well. I have narrowed it down to the CX-90, MDX Type S, and BMW X7. The Telluride/Pallisade was never even a consideration on my end, due to both the lack of driving dynamics and the (well-known) reliability issues.
@@bradstonesifer3398 fully acknowledging the recall for the tow hitch, both JD Power and Consumer Reports give the Telluride and Palisade above average reliability scores, so I'm not sure where this perception is coming from. But no, they have zero sporting pretense, whereas the ones on your shortlist are made with performance shoppers in mind so that's not surprising. FWIW, the twins also stay off my list for lack of power. It's adequate at best.
You are not correct on the towing capacities; although the lower trim, lower HP trims tow only 3500 lbs,there are trim levels of the smaller output engine that will tow 5000 lbs. I went to a dealer today because I need a tow vehicle, loved the car, but was told they don’t have trailer hitches in stock and can’t even order them from Mazda. So, a problem, albeit likely temporary.
Yeah, you're right about tow capacity, you can get the 5000 lbs capacity with the 280 HP engine and still burn regular fuel. On the tow package, it's the same with the Telluride and Palisade, not available now, but I understand from the forums that it's due to shortage of wiring harnesses from the massive recalls. Sorry to hear that Mazda's having this problem too.
Best structured reviews consistently in the market- well done motorman. Questions- 1. did u find the 21 inch Turbo S fidgety in its ride compared to the PHEV, as mentioned by “Drive” magazine? No one else seems to notice this trait. 2. Does the base 19 inch turbo actually rides better and the better choice?
First off, love your user name:) Second, yes, they had both the 3.3 Turbo S and 2.5 PHEV on offer to drive on this program however I focused only on the 3.3 Turbo S. We will get a 2.5 PHEV back in LA and shoot a full episode on that. As for the 3.3 Turbo with 19s, there were none on this program yet I have asked for one back in LA.
Why are some shots with Toyos and some with Falken tires? Which are the OEMs? FWIW, the OEM Falkens that came on the Mazda6 were woefully decent, but the car was significantly improved with good retail rubber at 35k.
The default tires found on the Mazda Cx5 in the US are garbage unless it never rains or snows where you are. So I'm concerned if they'll cheap out on CX-90 too. Got Pirelli all season tires immediately and a major improvement.
The maker of the RX-7 or the MX6-GT (that had electronically adjustable shocks and 4 wheel steering in 1989)?? No one should be surprised Mazda knows ride and handling.
Your point on brand is spot-on. I've been trying to explain the merits of this car to family as part of recommending it, and they just don't care. Unfortunate reality of mainstream buyers, and ultimately Mazda's greatest hurdle with this car.
GREAT review...I own a 2020 X5 and it has been an excellent car, but as you mention "Mazda delivering old school German engineering and refinement" at better value.
I disagree about the HVAC controls in the front. I figured out in two seconds that you press blue down for cold and red for hot. My son figured it out too without me saying anything.
If third row comfort and boot space are the most important, the Atlas, Grand Highlander, Enclave/Traverse are the biggest entrants in that midsize arena. However the CX90 blows all 3 rows away in terms of driving dynamics, materials, and fit and finish. The Hyundai/Kia Palisade/Telluride which are touted as being so posh and fancy feel cheap in comparison. Their materials feel low rent. Well done Mazda!! A couple of things that could be improved though is 3rd row ingress/egress and comfort along with cargo capacity. It’s on the smaller size. Payload capacity could be a little higher as well. Finally I don’t believe a heated steering wheel is offered on anything but the top trim. Everything else is spot on. Note the 280 hp models can tow 5k when stepping up to the preferred plus and premium trims.
Yes about brand, but that is not all bad news. Yes, some people want to hop in their BMW or Mercedes with their name brand purse and won't consider a Mazda. However, Mazda is also building a brand that is known as upscale unique quality. That also attracts people who want to be able to say their car is more than an econobox. Not making a fancy Toyota (Lexis), fancy Honda (Acura) or fancy Hyundai/Kia (Genesis) but making the whole brand upscale is where Mazda should go. Since Mazda seems to be making products that are deeper than just the branding a new nameplate with better leather, it works.
Saw one the other day. Was pretty cool. I would never buy one but I hope it sells well so they can spend some of the profit on other models and scale down some of its features to other models (ahem 3) lol
I can't help but see Jay Leno in the front end of the CX90. Kidding aside, kudos to Mazda for developing an i6 in these troubling times. I'd love to see that engine in more cars.
I live in an area of Southern California where temps in summer run 90 to 120 for 6 months solid. I will die under that panoramic sunroof. (In any car with one). Will it be optional?
Love your videos! great review on this one. On point though... I do believe that the "Mi" equipped version of the 280hp trim also provides for a 5000 towing capacity as well as this Top power trim model,
I like the paint, interior, and rear style on the Mazda. The Atlas has an aggressive face, where the Mazda has a delicate side. Being big and delicate is quite an achievement for the Mazda. I began liking the Atlas more, but the CX-90's styling and straight six power with NAPA leather heated and cooled F/R seats looks like a Ferrari inside.
All these vids touting the inline 6 cylinder, like its something new. Crysler was making 6 cylinder engines in the 60's, my dad had some Plymouth's he put 2-300 hundred thousand miles on. Yes, the turbo & Hybird tech is modern, but a real-wheel drive inline 6 cylinder is not special or new, although a heck of a lot better than a 4-5000lb vehicle being pushed along with a 4 cylinder turbo.
Since it has a wet clutch transmission, how is it a low speeds like in city driving? I'm always leery of DCTs. If this is a prelude to the CX 70, I'm ready to lay out some serious coin. Great review as always.
Good question - one posed by another viewer. My response there was: What you guys didn't see on camera was me making quick work of my old stomping grounds. Sliced through San Fran from the financial district through Little Italy to the Marina and up over the GGB. Transmission worked like a charm - no hard shifts. What stood out was the speed of the shifts. Well suited to traffic.
I visited a Mazda dealer today. I never owned a Mazda. I went in to look at the CX-9. Funnily enough, the sales rep didn't even talk about the CX-90 (!!). How would you feel this compares to the Hyundai Palisade? the CX-9 seemed small to me... especially the cargo. Would the CX-90 feel bigger inside? Also, the warranty is pretty basic on Mazdas as I learned today. 3yrs is not much when you think that most Asian cars offer 5yr.. even VW offers 4.
Third row and behind third row are the only things holding me buying this vehicle. I was looking forward to it since i drive a mazda 6 signature. Now i have to wait for the Grand Highlander Hybrid!
Mazda engineers have always had good vision. Nice to see them unfettered by Ferd. I would love to see this in a middle of the road, but with some techy bits livery version. We are being forced these days to get a Lincoln Aviator or Cadillac XT6. This would be such a welcome break from those underwhelming offerings...
You will be happy to know that Dave Coleman takes over an ENTIRE EPISODE. He goes on a deep dive of 'How & why' they made the Mazda CX-90. Look for it over the next couple of weeks.
Don't know . . . had the car booked for June but they recently pulled them the fleet . . . That said, you do have an ENTIRE episode with Coleman and this car coming up in early May!
Really , if we're going to be objective from an engineering stand point ,the Mazda cx 90 is superior to the telluride, the Highlander, and all the it's other direct competitors. It's simply more upscale, more premium. In all dynamic facets, it's incredibly accomplished, a Prince at the price of a pauper, a new standard of value.
I've always loved mazda and had a 2006 Spee6 super fun car and reliable....I really wish Mazda would make something like the Speed6 again....I'd pre-order it ASAP
This looks like a winner to me, and Mazda already had the interior design dialed years ago but the inline 6 engine it's exactly what it needed. If the mild hybrid can keep the AC blasting whilst stopped in traffic it's fine by me.
I chuckle a bit at the packaging since Cadillac did the same thing 20 years ago with the 1st generation SRX in 2004. I owned a 2005 SRX for a decade. The formula was a RWD based long & tall wagon/crossover. In that car, the choices of power plants were then then 3.6L V6 and the Northstar V8. Third row was optional and like that car, it was really meant for children although shortly after I got it, I had to transport 5 adults for a funeral. AWD was also optional for both the V6 and V8 engines. Critics LOVED that car but buyers generally didn't warm up to it which is a shame because it had similar good driving dynamics of the CTS platform it was based on. After all this time, Mazda revisits this format and looks like they have done really well. I'm still amazed more automakers didn't build inline-6 cars for their natural smooth operation without the need of balance shafts.Again, Mazda interiors punch above their price class. The third row is indeed for kids and this car's target demo is for families with kids under the age of 13. When my daughter was a tyke, she and her friends would also gravitate to the third row, often to get away from her brother. And the price is even fair.....$40K-$60K is right where it needs to be. I'm curious to find out moire about the plug in hybrid. Mazda is taking the journey to electrification slower than others but I think they feel there is room for them in this space as other automakers abandon ICE vehicles.
Good point, Rick. That SRX was also good to drive - considering its contemporaries. My only guess as to why that didn't sell well was the more wagon design theme. The funny thing is this: I like the look of the CX-90 because from some angles, it indeed has a wagon look.
@@MotoManTV Of course, when the SRX didn't sell well, GM looked around and said "What is the market leader?" And they found the Lexus RX. And although it was derisively called the "world's best realtor car", they next version of the SRX copied that vehicle and sales went up. Hopefully this Mazda will do well by bucking the trend where Cadillac failed.
Motoman, Compared to the 23 Acura MDX Type S Advance at $72K+ , the Mazda is a Bargain at $60K for this TOL CX-90 ! I have a 22 MDX Advance which I truly enjoy, but this takes the power of the Type S Version in at $10 K lower. And The Mazda doesn't have that awful Touch Pad for the InfoT. system, I hope? I don't really need a 3 Row SUV of this size. I am waiting to see the CX-70 which from initial looks fits right in as 2 Row SUV. Hoping it has the same Engine choices! You don't actually mention MPGs?
Full disclosure, I am the wrong person to ask based on my preferences for my personal cars. So knowing that, I would say no. Best way to describe this from the attributes you suggest would be similar to mid level BMW. Something set up like an X7 M50, but even a bit sharper.
@@MotoManTV I know and appreciate your preferences for performance. I too am the owner of a 2019 GS350fsport. So I feel like I can have fun with some power, but remain quiet inside the cabin. But I know since you have experience with reviewing so many cars that I wouldn't have the opportunity, especially because it is not easy to test drive in this environment, I am wondering about the cabin quietness and suspension dampening of this cx90 vs Lexus Rx or NX or acura mdx and rdx products putting aside performance?
@@josefernandez2722 The biggest difference one would notice between the CX-90 and the cars you mention would be engine noise. There is more of it here and I believe that is by design. One exception: The RX 500h. That too has more engine noise and in that case, it is definitely by design. Between the two, the Mazda sounds significantly better.
CX-70 with same engine and platform seems more attractive to me. Based on most of the CX-90 reviews I watched on YT, the third row here is quite useless for carrying average size/height adults comfortably for even a short ride. I cant imagine what the designers in Mazda were trying to accomplish when they want to target this three-row SUV to American Families. I really cant imagine I will put anyone there, not even the in-laws... lack of foot space and sitting too close to floor.. that combination means a punishment to any adult sitting in the third row to me. Even people who are not tall will not like it. So what is the point to own a three-row SUV without a practical third row? In that case, I rather opt for a top trim CX70 with same engine and spec and with a bench second row to maximize the passenger capacity and the overall driving dynamic.
Why would ANYONE try and stick adults in the third row of any CROSSOVER??? they don’t!!! Units for kids. If you want to fit adults in the third row you buy a suburban.
I've been driving Mazda's now since 2006. I got the first gen CX-7 (lease) and followed by another CX-7 (bought) and currently driving a first gen CX-5 (100k miles). All very reliable and fun to drive. I've been waiting for the reviews on the all new CX-90 and like many excited to hear about the new in-line 6 from Mazda. No doubt as expected it's likely the most engaging and fun to drive 3-row versus its competitors. Material quality and design looks very premium too and it should especially in the higher trims given the new for Mazda 50k plus price point. However, I'd argue that even given the positives I've mentioned above it has some short comings that a "family 3-row" vehicle is expected to have. The most obvious is the lack of space in the third row except for small kids and secondly, it's about 12 cubic feet short of max cargo space versus a Telluride/Palisade and even a bigger difference versus the new Pilot I believe. If these are designed ultimately as minivan alternatives, you'll find more practicality with other brands. Style over function, I guess, and more emphasis on driving dynamics than practicality. I'd also wish Mazda would at least offer a fully functioning touchscreen. Kepp the dial wheel too, give us the customer the option to choose like BMW.
More efficient than the competition though, even in the non PHEV versions. And that's with AWD standard. It's also not lagging terribly behind in the space department, we see the Highlander with just barely more room in the back. Ultimately that third row in these types of vehicles is meant to be folded flat unless in use anyway, and when that happens the cargo space is more than sufficient for almost any task that wouldn't require a pickup anyway.
@@mbenton6 Correct, which is good, and now it works while driving. Outside of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto the infotainment screen is nothing special, especially in the higher cost trims and they could also give the option of a full use touchscreen along with the dial control.
@@markcoopers1930 True, the Korean Twins and the new Pilot aren't particularly efficient and yes AWD drive standard with the CX-90 is an added bonus. I think families with teens (especially 3 or more) will still lean more towards the bigger interior space in the Honda/Kia/Hyundai if not larger vehicle like the Tahoe etc. Also given the CX-90's dimensions it's has considerably less leg room in the second row compared say to the Telluride/Palisade. It's fine, but there will be noticeable less legroom in the second row. Yes, the driving experience should be best in class and the quality and reliability should be very competitive. For me in upper trims it competes not directly but closer to the MDX and QX-60 in performance and passenger/cargo space. The upcoming Grand Highlander will be interesting. Plenty of available power, interior space, efficient and decent looking (certainly better than the current Highlander). It probably won't handle like the rear wheel biased CX-90 but as a minivan alternative I'm sure it will be very popular too. Great choices now in the 3-row market this year.
@@MIZUNOMP60 you're missing mazda point. They want you to me more comfortable driving with better road manners and a luxurious car for a lot less money. You cannot dome compare kia or Hyundai cars to BMWs like someone would this car. It feels like a 100,000 vehicles for a lot less money. RWD BIAS
What you guys didn't see on camera was me making quick work of my old stomping grounds. Sliced through San Fran from the financial district through Little Italy to the Marina and up over the GGB. Transmission worked like a charm - no hard shifts. What stood out was the speed of the shifts. Well suited to traffic.
Very interesting. Thomas from Autogefühl and Matt Moran weren’t impressed with the new 8-speed tranny at low speeds and thought it was clunky compared to what BMW, Audi & Porsche offer. I guess I’m going to have to take it out on a test drive once my Mazda dealer gets their first test model next week.
Motoman, do you think ride quality would take a hit with the smaller version cx70 that is to come because of its shorter wheel base? And by contrast, do you think that the cx70 might offer even better handling because of it's smaller size?
$60,000 ... For this configuration and drivetrain , I think that's a fair price and represents a good value. The 280 hp version is an even greater value versus less interesting product from Honda or Toyota. Well done Mazda.
Saw a lot of people here trying to decide between the telluride, Highlander and the CX-90. It’s simple, if interior space is your priority, CX-90 would lose every time, as it was never designed to be a minivan alternative. But if you care about design, craftsmanship, driving dynamics, and how all of them come together as a whole, it would literally be an insult to even compare the CX-90 to the highlander, telluride, or even the MDX. Nobody in their right mind, given they know at least a little bit about cars, would compare a RWD inline-6 turbo setup to a bunch of FWD turbo 4 and V6 cars and ask which is better - they are not even in the same league. Can’t believe we are still having this conversation…
You are spot on, Jimmy!
The comment of all comments!!! My fingers hurt from all the replies 😅 to less fortunate minded people.
You nailed it perfectly. This is exactly Mazda's intention and part of their plan to go more premium. Fingers crossed for new RWD sedan !
This man is by far the most thorough car enthusiast/analyst!!! Keep pumping good content 👌🏾
Not really when he cant even get the towing figures correct
My pleasure . . .
James May and others from Top Gear are too
@@mcglovera Not trying to start any car enthusiast beef lol 😂 but I watched all of them. This man just seems to be more detailed about the mechanics of the vehicles
He is by far the best.
Thanks for the review, as a big Mazda fan I hope that RWD architecture trickles down to their smaller vehicles. That is a beautiful color in the sun!
CX70
Mazda really did an amazing job. And at a very reasonable price too. Thoroughly enjoyable review! Now let's hope they sell every single one they can make so Mazda and Dave Coleman can give us an Audi A6 competitor.
CX-90 competes with Kia, Hyundai on low end and beats them ( better mpg, more torque, better dynamics @ the same price) and on the high end it competes with Acura Lexus and beats them on price /performance/ mpg. + possibly would steal some sales from Audi / Volvo. Brilliant. Good job Mazda. Waiting for CX-70 now. Big, big expectations! 🤟😎👀
Today mazda is even better than toyota and lexus. But hyundai and kia is a trash but low IQ people still purchase them without knowledge
Audi and Volvo caters to a different crowed! Volvo is focusing on going fully electric, and their whole philosophy is minimalistic Scandinavian design! Mazda is just now catching up and still behind
Actually, Mazda is on par here. No longer behind. Fit and finish, reliability, features and content, style, safety, all on par.
@@marshalljames5640 idk them door handles sound pretty hollow when opening and shutting it! Kind of like toyotas
@Jerome Williams they do not
What a surprising segment for Mazda to go to and I applaud them. That exterior is Beautiful and timeless, that color of paint is sensual and sophisticated. Then you opened up the door to the interior which looks elegant and slightly understated. Add to that the sonorous sound of that straight six, and they have a hit!
Gotta love Mazda's way of thinking and going their own and better way than the whole industry. They are my favorite car brand because of their philosophy
And why is that so impressive? Because Ford has a 3.0L turbo that makes 400HP. Gets same MPG. Seems like different isn't always good. Not at all.
@@jamesmin2837 that engine gets 18/24 mpg in explorer. Not even close to 23/28mpg Mazda gets. And it looks like s*** box from 90s 😂
@@jamesmin2837 It is impressive because everybody are leaving ICE engine development and killing all internal combustion engines, downsizing etc. The reason is consumption and connected emission goals which are imposed by governments especially in EU with EURO 7 standard, that is so strict that no ICE engine can reach it. So that is the impressive part - apparently nobody but Mazda can meet those emission standards with regular ICE engine.
@@serbzero Close enuff in real life. You know what's not close enough? One vehicle does 5.5s to 60mph, while the other does 6.4s. and very inconsistently. And one requires premium even just to get it's advertised power. Mean while, there's many NA V6 SUVs that here close to Cx90s acceleration whole still sipping regular fuel. Sorry but putting in premium fuel in a 6 cylinder turbo engine to get 6.3s is pathetic. It's even more pathetic the MDX-S. Did you really think inline 6 was more efficient?
@@GOINFINITI it's too low bro. All the extra tech and slow acceleration makes me sad.
One of the best reviews on the CX90. I have a 2016 Cx9. She has been fantastic since day one. This looks and sounds amazing. I am trying to hold out for the CX-70 before I decide. Thanks again great review.
My pleasure!
@@MotoManTV Thanks for a great review - like this person, I'm interested in this (but the mandatory captains chairs in the top trims is a no-go), but I am waiting on the CX-70 hoping it has at least low 30's or more cargo space behind the 2nd row (a la BMW X5.) Can you tell us when we can expect to see the CX-70? (Without being disinvited from all future Mazda events that is.)
I hope you get one at home soon. It would seem that the wet plate clutch thingy (that is used instead of a standard torque converter) has some smoothness issues from a start. Perhaps they need to use a more powerful electric motor to help give some more grunt from a standstill.
The other problem is a personal one - they need to offer the top Turbo S Premium Plus with an optional bench seat. There are a lot of us that want to put a family of five in the first two rows, leaving the third row flat in the floor and plenty of cargo space. They are not alone in this strange omission, making it difficult for me to find a 50 cu ft plus cargo space vehicle with room for five in the first two rows. Honda and Acura seem to be the logical alternative, but I sure would love to have this straight six rear wheel drive vehicle!
This makes me very excited for the cx70
Excellent review! Glad that I found your channel. I am seriously looking at the CX 90 Turbo S trim and this review pretty much answered all of my questions.
Have you test drove any of these 3 powertrains? I plan on test driving all 3. Gonna be fun.
Test drove the S Turbo and purchased it. Absolutely love how it handles!@@MrBigBird1776
Inline 6 in the rear-wheel-drive architecture, that's a step in the right direction. Can't wait to see the new Mazda 6.
This just feels more of a car than the rest of the competitors. Forget the interior trim colours, I am talking about simplicity in design. The dashboard unlike other brands it's not complete display making it feel like a fuckin home gaming setup. So sophisticated.
Huge Mazda fan and I have owned a Mazda 3, two Mazda 6 models, and I just bought the CX-90 Artisan Red with all the bells and whistles. In a nutshell this vehicle is a BEAST! You can feel it when you get behind the wheel. I was on the fence over the Hybrid model until I test drove it and did not like the hybrid whatsoever. The Inline 6 cylinder is the way to go with this car if you want that power. The Arisan Red is by far the best looking "red" car out on the road. Stunning paint job. If you are looking for the Mazda CX-90 in this color, be warned that it is a bit more expensive and harder to find.
Only one thing on my wishlist, a sedan based on this platform. Imagine this but with lower center of gravity, hundreds of pounds lighter and smaller size in general...🤤
Looking at the video and your front passenger seat placement for you being 6 feet tall, you could EASILY move the seat forward more and still be very comfortable.
This looks way better than the Q7 in terms of exterior design
German cars is a trash
Definitely don’t agree. The cx-90 exterior design looks even more dated than the cx-9, let alone a Q7. I wish they’d have kept the spirit of the cx-9, it looks far, far better than the cx-90. The only thing saving this cx-90 is the artisan red (which imo looks better than any red in a car I’ve ever seen).
The profile would indicate way more capacity for people but it appears some of that was consumed by the extra bank of cylinders primarily driving the rear that squeezes some height out of the rear seating area. This is a great choice for that young family where dad doesn’t want to be branded with a van. Nice analysis. 💯 14:02
I wish we'd just get the distance from front bumper to steering wheel, or the length from the steering wheel to the rear bumper. Long cars get cramped and short cars roomy, and we don't have good numbers to go off.
I could see empty nesters with a couple of bucks in the bank buying these as well. It's that nice of a car inside.
@@MotoManTV Great point. Flip down the rear seat for more cargo for packed vacation bags. 💼 😎 I agree…very nice color.
@@MotoManTVYou rang?
Just watched throttle houses upload comparing it to a merc & a bmw X5 not as quick but it’s funny to have them in the same conversation. The CX-90 has always looked good to me but this new model is next level
I never get tired of wat😊ching reviews about this car.....
A bit behind the scenes . . . the search volume on this car is unusually high. The last car that had this type of organic search volume was the Kia Stinger.
Very ready to see the PHEV review! Hardly anyone is talking about it so far!
Excellent review as usual MM, but where is Coleman? We need us some Coleman…we’re having Coleman withdrawal. We need him to geek out about all the new bits under the hood of the new Inline 6 and PHEV. He needs to tease us about a potential Mazda 6 RWD replacement as well as all the Inside Baseball stuff going on behind the scenes at Mazda North America. Have Kumo book Coleman for a future episode pretty please. Arigatou Gozaimasu!
Kumo already anticipated your needs. In fact, he made a huge change: Coleman gets his own episode! Yes, an entire episode of Dave rambling on as only he can in his technobabbly manner. He covers the entire 'how & why' the CX-90 came to being. And because you guys have asked that we don't cut ANY of what Coleman says, I am not at all in the episode. Look for that in a couple of weeks.
@@MotoManTV Awesome News ! Coleman would k i l l UA-cam if he had his own channel.
@@MotoManTV Thank you Kumo! Best producer on UA-cam!
Who said the burners are dead 😀? There is still hope for more. Thank you for the video and you all have a nice Easter Holiday!
- Who said?
- European Union :)
Happy Easter!
@@jareknowak8712 Actually not, because Germany (where I live) succesfully demanded that E-fuels can be used in new cars after 2035 as well. So the burner will live on in the EU 😁!
@@macstone9719
You are right.
But as for now syntetics are way to expensive to be considered as replacement for traditional benzin, for average driver/global scale use.
Today people from Deutschland buy gas in Poland (where im from), what will happend if on both sides of the border 1L will cost 5€?
@@jareknowak8712 I am counting on the free market to bring the cost down until 2035. You are right, it's very expensive now. Porsche just built the first pilot project in Chile, where the wind is always blowing to make elctricity. Give it time. For now I am mostly commuting with Autogas, which Poland is famous for, I think 😀.
@@macstone9719
Oh, yes it is.
1L of LPG is ~0,65 Euro, thats less than half of the price of normal gas, and almost 3x cheaper than 1L of Diesel.
The styling overall.👍 Perfect.
Man, that is a beautiful design. Good job, Mazda.
Sweet VID. The 1st new car I decided to own was a 1974 Mazda RX-4. Mazda steering has always been light as any RX-7 owner can attest to. The Toyota is like a Buick, as the Honda is like an Oldsmobile, and Mazda is the wild child, The Pontiac, the Goat. The GTO.
this car is great! loved it, and this new color suits very well
One more thing you didn’t mention is warranty. If Mazda can made such good quality vehicles, then they should up their warranty coverage to match Hyundai/Kia. Other than price and branding, warranty is an important factor for those looking to purchase rather than lease.
my thought exactly...they should go 4y 48K.
Does anybody who buys a Toyota think “man I want a longer warranty in case this breaks down”
No, no they do not. And you know why.
The interior space is surprisingly tight...it would seem from the outside it would be cavernous...great review...👍🏽
@Steve it will not drive like this and the overall fitnfinish and reliability does not match mazda
If you want space buy minivan or trashy GM products
@@mbenton6 exceedingly few customers shop the midsize three row segment for the driving experience. Space is the priority. Even so, the Telluride is widely regarded to have excellent dynamics and fit/finish for the class. And most outlets rank Kia above Mazda when it comes to reliability. There a lot of new technology in this CX-90 that's new to the brand. We'll see how that shakes out.
@@JDubbs07 I guess I am the exception, as I am looking for a family hauler that drives and handles well. I have narrowed it down to the CX-90, MDX Type S, and BMW X7. The Telluride/Pallisade was never even a consideration on my end, due to both the lack of driving dynamics and the (well-known) reliability issues.
@@bradstonesifer3398 fully acknowledging the recall for the tow hitch, both JD Power and Consumer Reports give the Telluride and Palisade above average reliability scores, so I'm not sure where this perception is coming from. But no, they have zero sporting pretense, whereas the ones on your shortlist are made with performance shoppers in mind so that's not surprising. FWIW, the twins also stay off my list for lack of power. It's adequate at best.
You are not correct on the towing capacities; although the lower trim, lower HP trims tow only 3500 lbs,there are trim levels of the smaller output engine that will tow 5000 lbs.
I went to a dealer today because I need a tow vehicle, loved the car, but was told they don’t have trailer hitches in stock and can’t even order them from Mazda. So, a problem, albeit likely temporary.
Oh, wow, that’s weird! I bought a CX 50 in December of last year and it came with a tow hitch on it
Yeah, you're right about tow capacity, you can get the 5000 lbs capacity with the 280 HP engine and still burn regular fuel.
On the tow package, it's the same with the Telluride and Palisade, not available now, but I understand from the forums that it's due to shortage of wiring harnesses from the massive recalls. Sorry to hear that Mazda's having this problem too.
Amazing work, this is the start of something great!
Best structured reviews consistently in the market- well done motorman. Questions-
1. did u find the 21 inch Turbo S fidgety in its ride compared to the PHEV, as mentioned by “Drive” magazine? No one else seems to notice this trait.
2. Does the base 19 inch turbo actually rides better and the better choice?
First off, love your user name:) Second, yes, they had both the 3.3 Turbo S and 2.5 PHEV on offer to drive on this program however I focused only on the 3.3 Turbo S. We will get a 2.5 PHEV back in LA and shoot a full episode on that. As for the 3.3 Turbo with 19s, there were none on this program yet I have asked for one back in LA.
@@MotoManTV can't wait for the review on the 2.5 PHEV
Looking forward to the comparison amongst the 3 versions to place my order- for fun to drive, value and ride quality. Thanks Motoman!
Why are some shots with Toyos and some with Falken tires? Which are the OEMs? FWIW, the OEM Falkens that came on the Mazda6 were woefully decent, but the car was significantly improved with good retail rubber at 35k.
The default tires found on the Mazda Cx5 in the US are garbage unless it never rains or snows where you are. So I'm concerned if they'll cheap out on CX-90 too. Got Pirelli all season tires immediately and a major improvement.
The maker of the RX-7 or the MX6-GT (that had electronically adjustable shocks and 4 wheel steering in 1989)?? No one should be surprised Mazda knows ride and handling.
Shit, they had it in the fall of 1987, for the 1988 model year re-design. 😄
I hope the CX-70 will be just as nice, I don’t need three rows.
Looking forward to that one as well.
Your point on brand is spot-on. I've been trying to explain the merits of this car to family as part of recommending it, and they just don't care.
Unfortunate reality of mainstream buyers, and ultimately Mazda's greatest hurdle with this car.
GREAT review...I own a 2020 X5 and it has been an excellent car, but as you mention "Mazda delivering old school German engineering and refinement" at better value.
And way more reliable too
I disagree about the HVAC controls in the front. I figured out in two seconds that you press blue down for cold and red for hot. My son figured it out too without me saying anything.
If third row comfort and boot space are the most important, the Atlas, Grand Highlander, Enclave/Traverse are the biggest entrants in that midsize arena. However the CX90 blows all 3 rows away in terms of driving dynamics, materials, and fit and finish. The Hyundai/Kia Palisade/Telluride which are touted as being so posh and fancy feel cheap in comparison. Their materials feel low rent. Well done Mazda!!
A couple of things that could be improved though is 3rd row ingress/egress and comfort along with cargo capacity. It’s on the smaller size. Payload capacity could be a little higher as well. Finally I don’t believe a heated steering wheel is offered on anything but the top trim. Everything else is spot on.
Note the 280 hp models can tow 5k when stepping up to the preferred plus and premium trims.
To be fair it is the first generation and has other potential adjustments in the future.
Yes about brand, but that is not all bad news. Yes, some people want to hop in their BMW or Mercedes with their name brand purse and won't consider a Mazda. However, Mazda is also building a brand that is known as upscale unique quality. That also attracts people who want to be able to say their car is more than an econobox. Not making a fancy Toyota (Lexis), fancy Honda (Acura) or fancy Hyundai/Kia (Genesis) but making the whole brand upscale is where Mazda should go. Since Mazda seems to be making products that are deeper than just the branding a new nameplate with better leather, it works.
My tall husband, says the front center weights are too low. Even low for short me.
Saw one the other day. Was pretty cool. I would never buy one but I hope it sells well so they can spend some of the profit on other models and scale down some of its features to other models (ahem 3) lol
I can't help but see Jay Leno in the front end of the CX90.
Kidding aside, kudos to Mazda for developing an i6 in these troubling times. I'd love to see that engine in more cars.
You will indeed . . .
I love that Mazda is going against the grain while the other brands push crappy expensive EVS
I live in an area of Southern California where temps in summer run 90 to 120 for 6 months solid. I will die under that panoramic sunroof. (In any car with one). Will it be optional?
Love your videos! great review on this one. On point though... I do believe that the "Mi" equipped version of the 280hp trim also provides for a 5000 towing capacity as well as this Top power trim model,
All these CX-90 videos everyday, here I am waiting for the CX-70.
I luv it but NO WAY I'm buying this for 55K+. I would rather buy "on brand" BWM X5 1-2 year cert for that price or slightly cheaper.
His previous video compares this to a fully loaded VW Atlas R line… this is about 14k difference in pricing from the VW which makes it the winner.
Considering this car now 😊
Mazda needs to get that motor offered in other Mazda models too and create a few truly performance oriented models like an Audi S4 or SQ5.
This is the perfect family suv with a touch of sport. BIG FAN!
if we put regular gas in the base engine, does it still get 280HP or less?
I like the paint, interior, and rear style on the Mazda. The Atlas has an aggressive face, where the Mazda has a delicate side. Being big and delicate is quite an achievement for the Mazda. I began liking the Atlas more, but the CX-90's styling and straight six power with NAPA leather heated and cooled F/R seats looks like a Ferrari inside.
All these vids touting the inline 6 cylinder, like its something new. Crysler was making 6 cylinder engines in the 60's, my dad had some Plymouth's he put 2-300 hundred thousand miles on. Yes, the turbo & Hybird tech is modern, but a real-wheel drive inline 6 cylinder is not special or new, although a heck of a lot better than a 4-5000lb vehicle being pushed along with a 4 cylinder turbo.
Good job Mazda!
👍
Since it has a wet clutch transmission, how is it a low speeds like in city driving? I'm always leery of DCTs. If this is a prelude to the CX 70, I'm ready to lay out some serious coin. Great review as always.
Good question - one posed by another viewer. My response there was: What you guys didn't see on camera was me making quick work of my old stomping grounds. Sliced through San Fran from the financial district through Little Italy to the Marina and up over the GGB. Transmission worked like a charm - no hard shifts. What stood out was the speed of the shifts. Well suited to traffic.
The transmission is a traditional planetary gear setup. The wet clutch replaces the torque converter in the driveline.
The CX70 is coming this year. Shorter and using this engine & hopefully more dynamic, sporty drive! Zoom zoom Mazda!
Great review!
I visited a Mazda dealer today. I never owned a Mazda. I went in to look at the CX-9. Funnily enough, the sales rep didn't even talk about the CX-90 (!!). How would you feel this compares to the Hyundai Palisade? the CX-9 seemed small to me... especially the cargo. Would the CX-90 feel bigger inside? Also, the warranty is pretty basic on Mazdas as I learned today. 3yrs is not much when you think that most Asian cars offer 5yr.. even VW offers 4.
I would like to see what the base inline 6 engine version vehicle looks like inside and out.
You and me both . . . in fact, have already asked for a loan on one if they make it to the fleet.
Thanks again Motoman. Love your work. Do you think the upcoming cx70 would be the same quality but in a slightly smaller package?
That's what we're hoping for . . . Think the BMW 3er to the BMW 5er . . .
Third row and behind third row are the only things holding me buying this vehicle. I was looking forward to it since i drive a mazda 6 signature. Now i have to wait for the Grand Highlander Hybrid!
That thing will be so ugly
Mazda engineers have always had good vision. Nice to see them unfettered by Ferd. I would love to see this in a middle of the road, but with some techy bits livery version. We are being forced these days to get a Lincoln Aviator or Cadillac XT6. This would be such a welcome break from those underwhelming offerings...
You should interview Dave Coleman about this car. PLEEEEASE
You will be happy to know that Dave Coleman takes over an ENTIRE EPISODE. He goes on a deep dive of 'How & why' they made the Mazda CX-90. Look for it over the next couple of weeks.
Love that interior colour...
When will you drop your review of the PHEV trim?
Don't know . . . had the car booked for June but they recently pulled them the fleet . . . That said, you do have an ENTIRE episode with Coleman and this car coming up in early May!
As long as a Mercedes S class......and looks just as classy! 10 out of 10 Mazda 👍
Really , if we're going to be objective from an engineering stand point ,the Mazda cx 90 is superior to the telluride, the Highlander, and all the it's other direct competitors. It's simply more upscale, more premium. In all dynamic facets, it's incredibly accomplished, a Prince at the price of a pauper, a new standard of value.
This interior looks like BMW quality of yesteryear! Reminds me of my E46 330Ci 5 Speed with MSport Package with tan interior.
Excellent reviews
My pleasure!
I've always loved mazda and had a 2006 Spee6 super fun car and reliable....I really wish Mazda would make something like the Speed6 again....I'd pre-order it ASAP
This is perfect
This looks like a winner to me, and Mazda already had the interior design dialed years ago but the inline 6 engine it's exactly what it needed. If the mild hybrid can keep the AC blasting whilst stopped in traffic it's fine by me.
If I remember correctly this thing has the type of A/C that can run cold even when it’s not fully powered on.
@@marshalljames5640 they've moved the compressor from belt driven to fully electric.
@@makatron Less moving parts usually equals better reliability.
Considering the long hood, the significantly longer wheelbase doesn't translate to a much bigger interior space comparing to CX-9.
My Mazda cx5 is the best car I ever owned
I chuckle a bit at the packaging since Cadillac did the same thing 20 years ago with the 1st generation SRX in 2004. I owned a 2005 SRX for a decade. The formula was a RWD based long & tall wagon/crossover. In that car, the choices of power plants were then then 3.6L V6 and the Northstar V8. Third row was optional and like that car, it was really meant for children although shortly after I got it, I had to transport 5 adults for a funeral. AWD was also optional for both the V6 and V8 engines. Critics LOVED that car but buyers generally didn't warm up to it which is a shame because it had similar good driving dynamics of the CTS platform it was based on. After all this time, Mazda revisits this format and looks like they have done really well. I'm still amazed more automakers didn't build inline-6 cars for their natural smooth operation without the need of balance shafts.Again, Mazda interiors punch above their price class. The third row is indeed for kids and this car's target demo is for families with kids under the age of 13. When my daughter was a tyke, she and her friends would also gravitate to the third row, often to get away from her brother.
And the price is even fair.....$40K-$60K is right where it needs to be.
I'm curious to find out moire about the plug in hybrid. Mazda is taking the journey to electrification slower than others but I think they feel there is room for them in this space as other automakers abandon ICE vehicles.
Good point, Rick. That SRX was also good to drive - considering its contemporaries. My only guess as to why that didn't sell well was the more wagon design theme. The funny thing is this: I like the look of the CX-90 because from some angles, it indeed has a wagon look.
@@MotoManTV Of course, when the SRX didn't sell well, GM looked around and said "What is the market leader?" And they found the Lexus RX. And although it was derisively called the "world's best realtor car", they next version of the SRX copied that vehicle and sales went up. Hopefully this Mazda will do well by bucking the trend where Cadillac failed.
Clearly this CX-90 is a winner. Forget that Telluride or whatever !
Motoman, Compared to the 23 Acura MDX Type S Advance at $72K+ , the Mazda is a Bargain at $60K for this TOL CX-90 ! I have a 22 MDX Advance which I truly enjoy, but this takes the power of the Type S Version in at $10 K lower. And The Mazda doesn't have that awful Touch Pad for the InfoT. system, I hope? I don't really need a 3 Row SUV of this size. I am waiting to see the CX-70 which from initial looks fits right in as 2 Row SUV. Hoping it has the same Engine choices! You don't actually mention MPGs?
This will be a serious headache for the more expensive MDX.
And it should have said the front center vents are too low!!
Why do you say no one buys these for performance? I certainly do. I have one car that needs to do it all and performance is main driver.
As we're a current lessee of a CX-5, I can't wait to see what the assumed 2 row CX-70 will be, based off this architecture.
Being longer by 7 inches is very important!
MotoMan, do you feel the suspension is a bit firm sacrificing quietness and comfort?
Full disclosure, I am the wrong person to ask based on my preferences for my personal cars. So knowing that, I would say no. Best way to describe this from the attributes you suggest would be similar to mid level BMW. Something set up like an X7 M50, but even a bit sharper.
@@MotoManTV I know and appreciate your preferences for performance. I too am the owner of a 2019 GS350fsport. So I feel like I can have fun with some power, but remain quiet inside the cabin. But I know since you have experience with reviewing so many cars that I wouldn't have the opportunity, especially because it is not easy to test drive in this environment, I am wondering about the cabin quietness and suspension dampening of this cx90 vs Lexus Rx or NX or acura mdx and rdx products putting aside performance?
@@josefernandez2722 The biggest difference one would notice between the CX-90 and the cars you mention would be engine noise. There is more of it here and I believe that is by design. One exception: The RX 500h. That too has more engine noise and in that case, it is definitely by design. Between the two, the Mazda sounds significantly better.
@@MotoManTV Thanks Motoman. 😊. You're the best
CX-70 with same engine and platform seems more attractive to me. Based on most of the CX-90 reviews I watched on YT, the third row here is quite useless for carrying average size/height adults comfortably for even a short ride. I cant imagine what the designers in Mazda were trying to accomplish when they want to target this three-row SUV to American Families. I really cant imagine I will put anyone there, not even the in-laws... lack of foot space and sitting too close to floor.. that combination means a punishment to any adult sitting in the third row to me. Even people who are not tall will not like it. So what is the point to own a three-row SUV without a practical third row? In that case, I rather opt for a top trim CX70 with same engine and spec and with a bench second row to maximize the passenger capacity and the overall driving dynamic.
Why would ANYONE try and stick adults in the third row of any CROSSOVER??? they don’t!!! Units for kids. If you want to fit adults in the third row you buy a suburban.
@@marshalljames5640 This guy is not the smartest
I've been driving Mazda's now since 2006. I got the first gen CX-7 (lease) and followed by another CX-7 (bought) and currently driving a first gen CX-5 (100k miles). All very reliable and fun to drive. I've been waiting for the reviews on the all new CX-90 and like many excited to hear about the new in-line 6 from Mazda. No doubt as expected it's likely the most engaging and fun to drive 3-row versus its competitors. Material quality and design looks very premium too and it should especially in the higher trims given the new for Mazda 50k plus price point.
However, I'd argue that even given the positives I've mentioned above it has some short comings that a "family 3-row" vehicle is expected to have. The most obvious is the lack of space in the third row except for small kids and secondly, it's about 12 cubic feet short of max cargo space versus a Telluride/Palisade and even a bigger difference versus the new Pilot I believe. If these are designed ultimately as minivan alternatives, you'll find more practicality with other brands. Style over function, I guess, and more emphasis on driving dynamics than practicality. I'd also wish Mazda would at least offer a fully functioning touchscreen. Kepp the dial wheel too, give us the customer the option to choose like BMW.
You do have an optional touchscreen android auto apple car play are all touchscreen
More efficient than the competition though, even in the non PHEV versions. And that's with AWD standard. It's also not lagging terribly behind in the space department, we see the Highlander with just barely more room in the back. Ultimately that third row in these types of vehicles is meant to be folded flat unless in use anyway, and when that happens the cargo space is more than sufficient for almost any task that wouldn't require a pickup anyway.
@@mbenton6 Correct, which is good, and now it works while driving. Outside of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto the infotainment screen is nothing special, especially in the higher cost trims and they could also give the option of a full use touchscreen along with the dial control.
@@markcoopers1930 True, the Korean Twins and the new Pilot aren't particularly efficient and yes AWD drive standard with the CX-90 is an added bonus. I think families with teens (especially 3 or more) will still lean more towards the bigger interior space in the Honda/Kia/Hyundai if not larger vehicle like the Tahoe etc. Also given the CX-90's dimensions it's has considerably less leg room in the second row compared say to the Telluride/Palisade. It's fine, but there will be noticeable less legroom in the second row. Yes, the driving experience should be best in class and the quality and reliability should be very competitive. For me in upper trims it competes not directly but closer to the MDX and QX-60 in performance and passenger/cargo space. The upcoming Grand Highlander will be interesting. Plenty of available power, interior space, efficient and decent looking (certainly better than the current Highlander). It probably won't handle like the rear wheel biased CX-90 but as a minivan alternative I'm sure it will be very popular too. Great choices now in the 3-row market this year.
@@MIZUNOMP60 you're missing mazda point. They want you to me more comfortable driving with better road manners and a luxurious car for a lot less money. You cannot dome compare kia or Hyundai cars to BMWs like someone would this car. It feels like a 100,000 vehicles for a lot less money. RWD BIAS
How’s the new 8-speed tranny at low speeds/heavy congested conditions? Also, how noticeable is the engine off/on feature in those conditions?
What you guys didn't see on camera was me making quick work of my old stomping grounds. Sliced through San Fran from the financial district through Little Italy to the Marina and up over the GGB. Transmission worked like a charm - no hard shifts. What stood out was the speed of the shifts. Well suited to traffic.
Very interesting. Thomas from Autogefühl and Matt Moran weren’t impressed with the new 8-speed tranny at low speeds and thought it was clunky compared to what BMW, Audi & Porsche offer. I guess I’m going to have to take it out on a test drive once my Mazda dealer gets their first test model next week.
Hey Motoman. Are you doing the review of the Phev variant?
Yes. Look for it in June. Before that, you will be getting a FULL Dave Coleman episode on this car on May 6.
@@MotoManTV cool. Thank you.
I hope they can shoehirn that engine drivetrain and interior into a future 6 Estate
Amen to that!
I'm still not a baby buggy guy, but that is a beautiful color combination.
Right?!?!?!?!
What about the ride between this and kia/Hyundai?
Those offer much better cargo and packaging for people in the second and third rows. Dynamically, this will run circles around those.
How does this compare to the MDX Type S?
Craps on its doorstep.
The 3rd row is not meant to go back there like that.
Motoman, do you think ride quality would take a hit with the smaller version cx70 that is to come because of its shorter wheel base? And by contrast, do you think that the cx70 might offer even better handling because of it's smaller size?
Good question. One that I am going to hold my thoughts on until I drive it.
Actually its an inch or two long. It's the wheelbase that's substantial.
I love what Mazda is doing especially with the rotary hybrid, but didn’t they get the full EV memo
white exterior with red interior would be nice :D
He said… where your ASSSS LOL😅
I like the color on this! I must afford it bro.
$60,000 ... For this configuration and drivetrain , I think that's a fair price and represents a good value. The 280 hp version is an even greater value versus less interesting product from Honda or Toyota. Well done Mazda.