2024 Mazda CX-90 Review Roundup – All Australian Reviews in One

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 marks a significant step up for the brand, offering a premium large SUV experience with powerful engines, advanced technology, and luxurious features. While it impresses with its refinement and capability, some may find the high price point and firm ride challenging.

CarExplore Overall Comparative Score: 7.8/10

This score reflects the aggregated ratings from Drive (7.8/10), CarExpert (8.1/10), and WhichCar (7.5/10), providing a comprehensive view of the Mazda CX-90's performance and value.

Quick Facts

• Price Range: $74,400 - $94,435 (plus on-road costs)
• ANCAP Safety Rating: Not yet rated
• Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): 5.4L/100km (diesel), 8.2L/100km (petrol)
• Seating Capacity: 7 passengers

Key Specifications

Performance and Driving Experience

• Smooth and powerful inline-six engines in both diesel and petrol variants
• Impressive acceleration and responsive performance
• Comfortable ride quality, though firmer than some rivals
• Some reviewers noted occasional traction issues and transmission hesitation
• Quiet and refined cabin environment

Expert Insight: "The engine's low-rev push and the electric motor work together in conjunction with the conventional eight-speed automatic transmission to make for a pretty enjoyable driving experience in terms of the powertrain." - CarExpert

Fuel Efficiency

• Diesel: Claimed 5.4L/100km, Real-world 6.5-7.5L/100km
• Petrol: Claimed 8.2L/100km, Real-world 9.0-10.0L/100km
• 48V mild-hybrid system contributes to efficiency

Value for Money

• Premium pricing puts it in competition with luxury brand offerings
• Well-equipped with advanced technology and safety features
• Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty
• Higher servicing costs compared to mainstream rivals

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful and refined engines
• Premium interior quality and design
• Advanced technology features
• Spacious and practical interior

Cons:

• High price point compared to mainstream rivals
• Firm ride quality, especially on larger wheels
• Some transmission hesitation noted
• Limited towing capacity compared to some competitors

Expert Review Summaries

Drive

• Rating: 7.8/10
• Pros:
  • Refined and powerful engines
  • Premium interior
  • Advanced technology
• Cons:
  • High price
  • Firm ride
  • Limited towing capacity
• Summary: "The Mazda CX-90 is a compelling large SUV that offers a premium experience, but its high price and some dynamic shortcomings may limit its appeal."Read the full review

CarExpert

• Rating: 8.1/10
• Pros:
  • Smooth and powerful engines
  • Upscale interior
  • Good standard equipment
• Cons:
  • Occasional drivetrain refinement issues
  • High servicing costs
  • Some cheap interior materials
• Summary: "You'll certainly make an impression with the CX-90 – it's a pretty hard thing to miss in the car park. The CX-9 was still a solid car so many years after it launched, and the CX-90 builds on that with a more muscular drivetrain and improvements to practicality and tech to bring it up to speed with today's competition."Read the full review

CarsGuide

Rating: Not provided

• Pros:
  • Stylish exterior design
  • Premium interior with Takumi Pack
  • Comfortable ride
• Cons:
  • High price point
  • Uncertain long-term reliability

Summary: "The CX-90 is comfortable, drives well, it's feature packed, has a potent engine and turns heads. So, what more could you want from a premium family SUV?" Read the full review

WhichCar

Rating: 7.5/10

• Pros:
  • Impressive performance
  • Luxurious interior
  • Advanced safety features
• Cons:
  • High price for a Mazda
  • Firm ride on 21-inch wheels

Summary: "The CX-90 is a bold step for Mazda into the premium segment, offering impressive performance and luxury, but at a price that may challenge brand perceptions." Read the full review

CarExplore's Take on the 2024 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 represents a significant step up for the brand, offering a genuine premium large SUV experience that competes with luxury marques. Its powerful inline-six engines, both in diesel and petrol variants, provide smooth and responsive performance that impresses across the range.

The interior is a standout feature, with high-quality materials and a design that rivals more expensive European offerings. The technology suite is comprehensive, including large digital displays and advanced driver assistance systems, though some features are reserved for higher trim levels.

However, potential buyers should be aware of some compromises. The ride quality is firmer than some rivals, especially on larger wheels, which may not suit all preferences. The high price point puts it in direct competition with established luxury brands, which may be a tough sell for some buyers.

Ideal For: Families seeking a premium large SUV experience with powerful engines and advanced technology, who appreciate Mazda's reputation for quality and are willing to pay a premium over mainstream alternatives.

Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize a softer ride, need maximum towing capacity, or are looking for a more affordable option in the large SUV segment.In conclusion, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 offers a compelling package for those seeking a premium large SUV experience. Its combination of power, refinement, and technology make it a strong contender in its class, provided buyers can accept the higher price point and firmer ride quality.

Frequently Asked Questions