Our Long-Term Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Came Up Short over 40,000 Miles

Why It Matters

The CX‑90’s mixed results highlight the challenge of delivering true performance luxury in a crowded three‑row SUV segment, influencing buyer expectations and Mazda’s brand perception. Its fuel efficiency and reliability are strengths, but driving dynamics may limit its appeal against more engaging rivals.

Key Takeaways

• Turbo S delivers 340 hp but feels underwhelming
• Fuel economy exceeds EPA, hitting 30 mpg on highway
• Stiff suspension and sluggish steering reduce driving enjoyment
• Infotainment remains clunky compared to rivals
• Tire wear and grip issues noted during long-term test

Pulse Analysis

Mazda entered the premium three‑row SUV arena with the CX‑90, leveraging its rear‑biased platform and a newly introduced 3.3‑liter turbo inline‑six. Priced between $57k and $62k, the Turbo S aims to compete with the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander, offering a blend of upscale materials and a respectable 340 hp output. While the powertrain delivers adequate torque for towing and highway cruising, the vehicle’s dynamics reveal a compromise: a heavy steering rack and firm suspension prioritize comfort over engagement, leaving enthusiasts yearning for a more spirited experience.

The 40,000‑mile evaluation uncovered incremental performance gains—0‑60 times improving from 6.4 to 6.1 seconds and skid‑pad grip rising to 0.83 g—but these numbers mask persistent issues. Tire wear proved premature, with the original Falken all‑season set failing before 30,000 miles, prompting a costly $1,133 replacement. Moreover, the eight‑speed automatic exhibited hesitant upshifts, and the clutch‑like torque converter produced audible clunks, contributing to a perception of sluggishness despite the engine’s vigor. Fuel efficiency, however, stood out: real‑world testing recorded 22 mpg overall and an impressive 30 mpg on a 75‑mph highway run, surpassing EPA ratings and rival hybrids.

For prospective buyers, the CX‑90 offers a refined cabin, ample cargo space and dependable reliability, but its driving character may fall short of premium expectations. Mazda’s challenge will be to refine chassis tuning and modernize its infotainment architecture to match competitors that deliver both comfort and engagement. As the brand eyes future updates—potentially borrowing touch‑focused interfaces from the upcoming CX‑5—addressing these shortcomings could solidify the CX‑90’s position as a true contender in the premium SUV market.