After 40,000 miles of real-world testing, the Mazda CX-90 Turbo S has revealed significant shortcomings in its driving dynamics that contradict its promising hardware specifications. What began as an anticipated evaluation of Mazda’s premium three-row SUV has culminated in a detailed assessment of performance gaps that matter most to drivers who prioritize handling and responsiveness.<\/p>\n
The Mazda CX-90 arrived with considerable fanfare, positioned as the brand’s flagship three-row SUV and a direct challenge to established luxury competitors. Mazda’s marketing emphasized the “Turbo S” variant’s impressive specifications: a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, paired with a mild-hybrid system and standard all-wheel drive. On paper, these numbers suggested a vehicle capable of delivering both family practicality and engaging driving characteristics.<\/p>\n
The CX-90 Turbo S comes equipped with hardware typically associated with premium driving experiences. Its front-engine, rear-biased all-wheel-drive layout theoretically prioritizes balanced handling. The suspension system incorporates a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear setup, while the steering employs a rack-mounted electric power steering system. These components, when properly tuned, can deliver precise feedback and confident handling\u2014qualities Mazda has historically excelled at providing in vehicles like the MX-5 Miata and Mazda3.<\/p>\n
Despite these promising components, our extended testing revealed a fundamental disconnect between the CX-90’s specifications and its on-road behavior. The vehicle’s 5,200-pound curb weight, while not unusual for a three-row SUV of this size, seems to overwhelm the chassis tuning. Engineers appear to have prioritized ride comfort over handling precision, resulting in a vehicle that feels less connected to the driver than expected from a Mazda product.<\/p>\n
Our comprehensive evaluation covered diverse driving conditions including urban commuting, highway cruising, backroad exploration, and family road trips. This breadth of experience provided insights into how the CX-90 Turbo S performs in the varied situations owners actually encounter.<\/p>\n
The electric power steering system, which should provide clear communication about front tire grip and road surface changes, instead delivers an unnaturally light and vague feel. Initial turn-in response lacks the immediacy Mazda enthusiasts expect, and mid-corner adjustments require more steering input than anticipated. The system filters out too much road feel, creating a disconnect between driver and road that becomes more apparent as miles accumulate.<\/p>\n
The CX-90’s suspension struggles to manage body movements during directional changes. Moderate cornering produces noticeable body roll that undermines driver confidence, while quick lane changes generate pronounced side-to-side motion that requires correction. The damping feels inconsistent\u2014firm enough to transmit small imperfections yet soft enough to allow excessive body movement. This compromise satisfies neither comfort nor handling enthusiasts.<\/p>\n
Braking performance presents another area of disappointment. While stopping distances remain adequate for safety, the brake pedal lacks progressive feel. Initial bite feels artificial, followed by inconsistent progression that makes smooth stops challenging. During downhill mountain driving with a full load of passengers and luggage, brake fade became noticeable, requiring earlier and harder application than expected from a vehicle in this class.<\/p>\n
The CX-90’s inline-six engine delivers strong straight-line acceleration, particularly from highway speeds where turbocharged torque proves advantageous. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly under moderate acceleration and executes downshifts promptly when using manual mode. However, this capable powertrain feels mismatched to the chassis limitations.<\/p>\n
Acceleration from standstill highlights the chassis shortcomings. Torque delivery feels strong, but traction control intervenes frequently as weight transfers rearward, limiting actual acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system sends power effectively, but the chassis dynamics cannot fully utilize the available performance. The result is a vehicle that feels powerful in straight lines but constrained in situations requiring combined acceleration and directional changes.<\/p>\n
While generally competent, the transmission programming exhibits occasional hesitation when requesting quick downshifts for passing maneuvers. The system sometimes holds gears too long during gentle deceleration, creating a slight driveline shunt when re-applying throttle. These behaviors, while not deal-breakers, contribute to an overall impression of a powertrain not fully harmonized with the vehicle’s dynamics.<\/p>\n
When evaluated against key competitors, the CX-90 Turbo S’s driving dynamics shortcomings become more apparent. Vehicles like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Honda Pilot\u2014while not marketed as performance-oriented\u2014deliver more predictable handling behaviors. The Telluride, in particular, provides better body control despite similar dimensions and weight.<\/p>\n
Against premium three-row SUVs like the Audi Q7, BMW X7, and Mercedes-Benz GLS, the CX-90 falls significantly short in driving engagement. These German competitors demonstrate how weight can be managed through sophisticated suspension tuning and chassis engineering. The gap is most noticeable in steering precision and body control during transitional maneuvers\u2014areas where Mazda traditionally competes effectively in smaller vehicle segments.<\/p>\n
The CX-90 Turbo S’s approximately $60,000 price point positions it against well-equipped versions of mainstream competitors and entry-level luxury options. This pricing requires excellence in either luxury amenities or driving dynamics\u2014and the CX-90 delivers neither sufficiently to justify the premium over mainstream alternatives that offer similar space and features with more predictable dynamics.<\/p>\n
Throughout 40,000 miles, the CX-90 demonstrated solid mechanical reliability with no major component failures. Interior materials held up well to family use, with minimal signs of wear on frequently contacted surfaces. The infotainment system remained responsive, and all electronic features continued functioning properly.<\/p>\n
As mileage accumulated, some deterioration in suspension refinement became noticeable. Small impacts that previously produced muted thumps began transmitting more pronounced vibrations through the chassis. Steering feel, already a weak point when new, became slightly more vague as components experienced normal wear. These changes, while subtle, further diminished the driving experience over time.<\/p>\n
Observed fuel economy averaged 22 MPG in mixed driving\u2014slightly below EPA estimates but reasonable for a vehicle of this size and power. The mild-hybrid system provided seamless stop-start functionality but contributed minimally to overall efficiency. Highway cruising at 70 MPH typically returned 25 MPG, while aggressive driving in mountainous terrain dropped efficiency to 18 MPG.<\/p>\n
As a family vehicle, the CX-90 offers competitive interior space with comfortable seating for seven adults. Third-row access proves easier than in some competitors, and cargo capacity behind the third row accommodates reasonable luggage for a weekend trip. The cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, with effective noise isolation from wind and road surfaces.<\/p>\n
Daily usability represents the CX-90’s strongest attribute. The elevated seating position provides good visibility, while controls remain intuitively placed for driver access. The standard safety systems functioned reliably, with forward collision warning providing appropriate alerts without excessive false positives. These practical strengths make the driving dynamics shortcomings more frustrating\u2014the vehicle excels in many areas but fails in the one category where Mazda has built its reputation.<\/p>\n
The CX-90 Turbo S’s dynamics shortcomings raise questions about Mazda’s strategy to move upmarket. Previous Mazda vehicles succeeded by delivering driving pleasure at accessible price points\u2014the “Zoom-Zoom” philosophy that differentiated the brand. The CX-90 suggests this focus may be diluted in pursuit of premium positioning.<\/p>\n
The vehicle’s dynamics suggest conflicting engineering priorities. The chassis tuning appears aimed at isolating occupants from road imperfections\u2014a luxury characteristic\u2014but executes this in a way that diminishes driver connection. The result satisfies neither luxury seekers who expect seamless isolation nor driving enthusiasts who expect Mazda’s traditional communication and precision.<\/p>\n
For shoppers considering three-row SUVs, the CX-90 presents a confusing proposition. Those prioritizing driving dynamics will find more engaging alternatives in both mainstream and luxury segments. Buyers seeking maximum luxury will find better execution elsewhere. The CX-90 occupies an awkward middle ground that may appeal to brand loyalists but struggles to attract conquest buyers from other marques.<\/p>\n
The Mazda CX-90 Turbo S represents a vehicle caught between identities\u2014too compromised in driving dynamics to satisfy enthusiasts, yet not sufficiently luxurious to compete with established premium brands. For a company that built its reputation on accessible driving pleasure, this represents a notable departure. Shoppers considering this three-row SUV should prioritize extended test drives that include varied road conditions, paying particular attention to steering feedback and body control during directional changes. While the vehicle offers many practical strengths, its dynamic shortcomings may prove disappointing for drivers who value the engagement Mazda has traditionally delivered across its lineup.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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