Electric Cars

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.

Acura is strategically advancing its vehicle lineup with a strong focus on hybrid and electric powertrains. The forthcoming fourth-generation RDX will mark a significant shift, incorporating a two-motor hybrid system to enhance fuel efficiency and performance. This transition, however, will introduce a temporary pause in RDX production, with the new model anticipated to launch for the 2028 model year. Beyond the RDX, Acura is also preparing for the debut of its RSX EV in 2026, built on Honda's innovative 0-series platform. Concurrently, Honda is updating its popular Civic models, including a hybrid variant with new shift features and stylistic revisions for the high-performance Civic Type R.

These developments highlight a broader strategic push towards sustainable and technologically advanced automotive solutions, reflecting both brands' commitment to evolving market demands. The introduction of hybrid technology in a core SUV like the RDX, coupled with the expansion of dedicated electric vehicles, underscores a future-oriented approach. Additionally, the continuous refinement of existing popular models through performance enhancements and design updates ensures that both Acura and Honda maintain a competitive edge across diverse vehicle segments. This comprehensive strategy aims to offer consumers a wider range of eco-friendly and high-performance options in the coming years.

Next-Generation RDX Embraces Hybrid Power

Acura has officially confirmed that its next-generation RDX, a popular compact luxury SUV, will be equipped with an advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain. This strategic shift underscores the brand's dedication to expanding its electrified vehicle offerings. While specific details about the hybrid system's output and efficiency are still under wraps, it is anticipated to be a sophisticated evolution, potentially drawing inspiration from existing Honda hybrid technologies, such as the efficient system found in the CR-V Hybrid. This move aims to enhance the RDX's fuel economy and reduce its environmental footprint, appealing to a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers without compromising performance or luxury.

The current, third-generation RDX, which debuted for the 2019 model year, is nearing the end of its production cycle this spring. This will lead to a temporary gap in the availability of new RDX models before the fourth-generation hybrid version arrives. Acura expects to have sufficient inventory to meet demand through much of the current year. The new model, with its redesigned exterior and advanced hybrid technology, is projected to launch in late 2027 as a 2028 model year vehicle. Teaser images hint at a larger silhouette with distinctive styling cues, including muscular rear haunches and sleek LED lighting, promising a refreshed and more assertive presence on the road. This transition period allows Acura to thoroughly develop and refine the new hybrid RDX, ensuring a seamless and impactful market re-entry.

Broader Portfolio Enhancements and Electrification Drive

Beyond the RDX, both Acura and Honda are implementing significant updates across their vehicle lineups, reaffirming their commitment to innovation and market relevance. Acura is set to introduce enhancements for its MDX SUV and Integra Type S, which will include both exterior and interior refinements, refreshing these key models. A major highlight for Acura is the upcoming launch of the RSX EV in the latter half of 2026. This electric vehicle will be a pioneering model, built on Honda's new 0-series platform and featuring the brand's advanced ASIMO OS software, showcasing Acura's push into the fully electric luxury segment. These strategic introductions are designed to invigorate Acura's portfolio and provide cutting-edge options for consumers seeking luxury performance with advanced technology.

Similarly, Honda is not lagging in its evolutionary efforts. The Civic Hybrid will receive the new S+ shift feature, first seen in the Prelude coupe, aimed at delivering a more engaging driving experience. The high-performance Civic Type R is also slated for updated exterior and interior styling later this year, ensuring its continued appeal to enthusiasts. Furthermore, Honda is progressing with its 0-series EVs, with the 0 SUV expected to arrive in 2026, following the RSX EV. The 0 Saloon is anticipated to debut after the 0 SUV, potentially in 2027. These comprehensive updates and new model introductions across both brands signify a robust strategy to meet future mobility demands, blending hybrid efficiency, electric power, and refined performance in a diverse and appealing product range.