2027 Mazda CX-90: Refined Design Meets Performance Aspirations










The 2027 Mazda CX-90 aims to elevate Mazda's standing in the automotive market, showcasing a meticulously crafted design and an interior that rivals more expensive luxury vehicles. While its powerful inline-six engine offers competitive performance and all-wheel drive comes standard, the vehicle's firm ride and occasional transmission hesitation at lower speeds may temper its luxury aspirations. Furthermore, the third row's limited legroom suggests it's best suited for children. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CX-90 distinguishes itself in the crowded mid-size three-row SUV category with its appealing aesthetics, upscale cabin, and impressive fuel economy, positioning it as a strong contender for discerning buyers.
Mazda's latest CX-90 model for 2027 carries forward the brand's commitment to sophisticated design and elevated cabin comfort, despite entering its fourth production year with no significant changes expected. This three-row SUV is designed to exude an aura of premium quality, featuring graceful exterior lines and an interior adorned with luxurious materials such as fine leather and faux suede. Its aesthetic appeal is undeniable, drawing inspiration from high-end SUVs to create a visually striking vehicle that stands out. The vehicle's powertrain, featuring an inline-six engine, delivers robust performance with options for 280 horsepower in base models and a more potent 340 horsepower in the S trims. However, the engine's audible characteristics at higher RPMs and the automatic transmission's occasional low-speed jerkiness somewhat undermine the sophisticated driving experience Mazda strives for. Additionally, while the handling is commendable for an SUV of its size, the suspension’s stiffness can lead to a less refined ride over uneven surfaces, preventing it from fully competing with established luxury brands.
Performance and Efficiency: A Closer Look
The 2027 Mazda CX-90 showcases a blend of powerful engineering and commendable fuel efficiency, making it a noteworthy contender in its class. Equipped with a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, the CX-90 delivers a spirited driving experience. Non-S models offer 280 horsepower, while the S variants boast an impressive 340 horsepower, paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Our testing revealed that the 340-hp S Premium Plus model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 6.3 seconds, outperforming several key competitors such as the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander. This strong acceleration highlights the CX-90's dynamic capabilities, underscoring its appeal to those who value performance in a family-friendly SUV. However, the engine’s character can become unrefined at higher revs, and the transmission occasionally exhibits slight hesitations during low-speed transitions, which may detract from the otherwise premium feel. Despite these minor issues, the CX-90's handling prowess remains a strong point, reflecting Mazda's dedication to engaging driving dynamics, even if the ride quality can be somewhat firm over rougher roads.
Beyond its powerful engine, the 2027 CX-90 also excels in fuel economy, setting a high standard for three-row SUVs. The EPA estimates its efficiency at 24 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for all non-hybrid models, regardless of engine output. During our comprehensive 75-mph highway test, the CX-90 S Premium Plus achieved an impressive 29 mpg, demonstrating its real-world fuel-saving potential. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its segment, surpassing rivals like the Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Hyundai Palisade. For those requiring towing capability, the Select and Preferred trims can haul up to 3500 pounds, while all higher trims can manage a robust 5000 pounds, aligning with the maximum towing capacities of other popular three-row SUVs. This versatility, combined with its class-leading fuel efficiency, positions the CX-90 as a highly practical and economical choice. The vehicle also prioritizes safety with its i-Activsense suite of driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, ensuring a secure and confident driving experience for all occupants.