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Mazda CX-70 PHEV Review

by | Aug 8, 2024 | 0 comments

Mazda CX-70 PHEV Review

Mazda expands its groundbreaking e-SkyActiv PHEV powertrain to the midsize 2025 CX-70 SUV crossover

A black suv in motion.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV midsize SUV crossover has starting prices of $56,000 and $59,000. Mazda’s e-SkyActiv PHEV powertrain gives 26 miles of battery driving. (Photography by MazdaUSA or as credited)

Jump To Special Features

Engineered for Electrification
2025 Mazda CX-70 Pricing
PHEV Performance
Battery Charging
Ride and Handling
Safety Features
The Crafted Cabin
Colossal Cargo
Why Buy the Mazda CX-70 PHEV?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a bewildering example of “Second verse, same as the first!” The CX-70 is a new nameplate for the brand, but it is not, technically, a new vehicle. It is a variant of the CX-90 and largely unchanged except for having two fewer seats. Both 2025 CX models, on sale now, have several updates.

The CX-90 is a midsize, all-wheel-drive, three-row SUV crossover with six-cylinder or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The two-row, five-seat CX-70 is a perplexing addition because it has the same dimensions and powertrains as the CX-90.

Manufacturers often create variant SUV models, such as the Volkswagen Atlas and its variant, the Atlas Cross Sport. It is genius marketing because the “coupe” or sport variant crops rear interior space in favor of fashion. And the flashier body style can cost more.

Mazda made no body-style changes to the CX-70 but charges more for it—about $2,700 more than the gasoline-powered CX-90. The CX-70 PHEV (plug-in hybrid) has a larger price premium—$4,455 more than the CX-90 PHEV. However, Mazda says the CX-70 “has a higher level of equipment out of the box and has a slightly more streamlined list of trims, compared to CX-90.”

Deleting the third row only saved about 69 pounds, with no improvement to the fuel economy. But there is a lot of subfloor cargo space, with an optional organizer for $100.

Time will tell if buyers favor the CX-70 for its added cargo space or the CX-90 for its three-row functionality.

Red Nappa leather with red stitching throughout the cabin recalls the 100th Anniversary Special Edition Miata MX-5.

Red Nappa leather with red stitching recalls the 100th Anniversary Special Edition Miata MX-5.

Engineered for Electrification

The CX-70 is built on Mazda’s large platform, shared with the CX-90, and engineered for electrification. The CX-70 has two powertrains featuring some form of electrification. The e-SkyActiv G 340-horsepower 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine integrates M-Hybrid Boost. The second choice is the advanced e-SkyActiv G PHEV, with the same charge-while-driving feature as the CX-90.

The salvation comes from a second plug-in hybrid model with Mazda’s e-SkyActiv PHEV powertrain. From my research, only Volvo offers a charging mode while driving for its XC60 T8 Recharge and XC40 Recharge SUVs. Volvo’s “Hold and Charge” function can charge and bank electric power for later use or charge the battery while driving.

Mazda’s e-SkyActiv PHEV powertrain consists of an inline four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 17.8-kWh battery pack. The direct-injected 2.5-liter engine makes 189 hp with premium fuel or 185 hp with regular unleaded. The engine is paired with a 68-kW electric motor, which adds 173 hp and 199 lb.-ft. of torque at a very low 400 rpm.

Combined system power is 323 hp when using premium fuel or 319 hp with regular unleaded. Peak torque of 369 foot-pounds at 4,000 rpm is the same with regular or unleaded fuel.

The CX-70 PHEV has an estimated battery-powered driving range of 26 to 32 miles and a combined driving range of 490 miles. That peak range, however, depends on the use of air conditioning, seat heaters, and other electronic features.

The dash-top infotainment screen has a 12.3-inch color display and 360-degree camera system with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View.

The 12.3-inch color infotainment display has a 360-degree camera with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View.

2025 Mazda CX-70 Pricing

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is sold in two turbocharged powertrains: a gasoline inline six-cylinder and a four-cylinder plug-in hybrid PHEV.

Inline-six-cylinder models are offered in five trim levels of CX-70 3.3-liter. Starting prices range from about $42,000 to $57,405, including the freight charge of $1,455 from Hofu, Japan. All CX-70 models are richly equipped with entry-luxury features and interior materials. Standard equipment includes:

  • Keyless entry;
  • Leather-trimmed upholstery;
  • Eight-way power driver seat;
  • Extensive safety features and technologies.

The six-cylinder powertrains are turbocharged with 48-volt mild-hybrid boost. An eight-speed automatic transmission helps stretch fuel economy. EPA mileage ratings are 24 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 mpg combined on the recommended premium fuel. The engine also functions on 87 octane but at slightly reduced power ratings.

The 2025 CX-70 PHEV plug-in hybrid is sold in two all-wheel-drive trim levels with eight-speed automatic transmissions. The entry PHEV Premium starts at about $56,000, with interior color choices of gray or black. Standard equipment includes 21-inch alloy wheels, a power sliding-glass panoramic moonroof, and a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System.

Today’s review of a CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus costs $59,275, with one option for Melting Copper paint, $450.

For a pricing comparison, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has starting prices of $51,400, $56,355, and $59,405. Pricing includes the $1,455 freight charge.

CX-70 Options and Special Offers

There is a choice of six paint colors for both CX-70 models, but only Jet Black Mica is no-cost. Of course, there is Mazda’s special Soul Red Metallic, $595, and Rhodium White, also $595. My tester came in the striking Melting Copper Metallic, $450.

Worthwhile accessories include the retractable cargo cover, $275, and a cargo net, $60. The premium carpeted floor mats are appropriate for this luxury SUV, $240, rather than the standard carpet mats. I would also opt for the padded carpeted cargo liner, which cost $275. Besides protection, the padded mat can add a layer of soundproofing. Mazda also offers several accessories for pet access and seat protection.

Find current Mazda pricing here. Look for special offers here.

At the time of publication, there were no special offers for the CX-70 PHEV. However, the CX-70 3.3 had a lease offer of $357 a month for 33 months, with $3,999 down. The term allows 10,000 miles a year.

There also was a purchase incentive of 3.9 percent financing for up to 60 months. Other offers include:

  • $1,000 Mazda loyalty reward;
  • $2,000 lease-to-lease reward;
  • $500 military appreciation for lease or purchase.
The driver faces a 12.3-inch digital gauge display.

The driver faces a 12.3-inch digital gauge display.

Mazda Warranty Coverages

Mazda might be moving on up to a premium level, but its warranty coverage is basic: 3-years or 36,000-miles. However, hybrid components, including the battery, have a warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles. In California, the hybrid battery has coverage of 10 years or 150,000 miles.

CX-70 Performance

All Mazda CX-70 models have turbocharged powertrains with M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with stop-start at idle.

Mazda’s plug-in powertrain integrates a turbocharged 2.5-liter e-SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine and a 68 kW electric motor. Total system power is 323 hp, and the battery-electric driving range is 26 to 32 miles.

The uplevel e-SKYACTIV G 3.3-liter gas Turbo S engine has 340 horsepower and 369 foot-pounds of torque at 2,000 rpm. Mazda recommends premium fuel for peak horsepower or 319 hp from 87 octane. It has fuel economy ratings of 23 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 mpg combined.

There is little mileage difference between the entry 3.3-liter Turbo engine, which has 280 hp and 332 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000 rpm using the recommended 87 octane. Its mileage ratings are nearly identical, with 24 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 mpg combined.

The CX-70 battery is in the far back left side of the engine-motor bay under a plastic shroud. Pop off the shroud for access, but there is a cable in the way of securely reaching the positive post. And the battery’s positive post is under a separate cap, which makes it more difficult to secure a clamp. Mazda should have included a separate positive charging post somewhere convenient under the hood.(Mark Maynard photos)

The CX-70 battery is in the far back left side of the engine-motor bay under a plastic shroud. Pop off the shroud for access, but there is a cable in the way of securely connecting to the positive post. (Mark Maynard photos)

The engine-motor bay has the upscale features of hood struts, not a prop rod. However, when the 12-volt battery needs a jump start, getting a solid connection will be a challenge. The battery is in the far left back corner under a plastic shroud. Pop it off for access, but there’s another cable in the way. The battery’s positive post is under a separate cap, making securing a clamp difficult. Mazda should have included a separate positive charging post somewhere convenient under the hood.

Image shows the awkward 12-volt battery placment.

Awkward battery placement.

And the battery’s positive post is under a separate cap, which makes it more difficult to secure a clamp.

The battery’s positive post is under a separate cap, which makes it more difficult to secure a clamp.

Why Use An Inline-6 Engine?

There are many reasons why Mazda moved away from a V-6 engine to an inline 6. (The six-cylinder is used in non-hybrid models).

Among the reasons, an inline-6 keeps the engine nice and narrow, a spokesperson said. The design creates slight efficiency in the powertrain. Also, with the CX-70’s double-wishbone front suspension, the inline engine benefits steering feel and stability, he said. However, it also has a wider suspension compared to more economical suspensions. And that also benefits a tighter turning circle because the turn angle was increased. Still, the turning circle with 21-inch tires is a broad 41.2 feet — a deal killer for me. Rear-wheel steering would be a good option if tire sizes get any bigger.

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

Power flow to the axles is rear-biased, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Gas models have manual steering wheel shift paddles, while PHEV models use the paddles to adjust the regen deceleration force.

I experienced rough transmission shifts, sometimes on deceleration or electric mode as I rolled on power. Could that be a problem down the road?

Mazda says its plug-in hybrid has a comparable level of performance to the inline-6 models. Sport gives a more immediate launch force but is not aggressive. Get on the gas hard, and acceleration can be swift. However, passing power takes a heavier foot at speed on the interstate.

Multifunctional Performance

The e-Skyactiv plug-in system has multifunctional performance, Mazda says.
In Normal mode, the hybrid system will prioritize EV battery driving when there is sufficient battery charge.

When the battery’s charge is below 20 percent, the system will keep the gas engine fired to charge the battery to make EV assist available.

An EV mode can be engaged through the Mi-Drive controller on the shift console.
When the accelerator pedal reaches the kick-down switch, the gas engine can turn on in EV mode. When this occurs, the system puts CX-70 back into Normal mode for quicker acceleration.

The PHEV performance while on gasoline power felt the same as with the electric boost.

PHEV Battery Charging

Electric vehicle charging times, to 100 percent:

  • Level 1 (household 120-volt AC): 6 hours and 40 minutes;
  • Level 2 (240V AC): 1 hour and 30 minutes.

I have a Level 2 home charger in my garage, but I didn’t need it for this test. While driving in town, the e-Skyactiv system added charge incrementally. However, it is a lot quicker to charge at highway speeds, where it becomes a dollars-and-sense asset to commuters.

The CX-70 has a sturdy footprint from Falken Ziex CT 60R all-season tires, 275/45. There also is a temporary spare rather than an “inflation system.”

The CX-70 has a sturdy footprint from Falken Ziex CT 60R all-season tires, 275/45.

Ride and Handling

The CX-70 PHEV feels to be of robust construction. It is not sporty to drive, but it has confident handling under pressure and in evasive maneuvers.

For handling control, Mazda’s so-called Kinematic Posture Control applies light brake force to the inside rear wheel during cornering. Because the CX-90 platform is rear-drive based, KPC minimizes the tippy feel for more natural poise through corners.

Mazda does not use adaptive dampers to help smooth the ride. The steel spring suspension underpinning the CX-70 lays down a luxuriously compliant — almost carpeted — ride on smooth surfaces. But the attitude swiftly changes over rough roads with jarring impacts. There is much trucky head toss over speed bumps and driveway entrances. But that suspension is hefting a curb weight of 5,198 pounds.

The variable assist steering force feels overly firm at low speeds, at least too stiff for two-finger tooling through mall garage parking.

At speed on the interstate, the CX-70 is settled and confident.

I have grown to appreciate (and somewhat trust) Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist in heavy traffic. These systems keep watch on the lanes and will work with navigation to speed up and slow the vehicle, usually to a stop in heavy traffic. Mazda has enhanced its driver-assist technologies for full Level 2 semi-autonomous driving.

The hands-on assistance is accurate in lane centering without a freak-out of loud alerts should an overtaking vehicle cut in too close.

An open studio image shows the whole interior.

Among the CX-70 safety features are eight air bags, hill start and hill descent assist, off-road traction assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist.

Safety and Advanced Technologies

Mazda has armed the CX-70 with layers of safety features and advanced technologies.

Among the features are eight air bags, hill start and hill descent assist, off-road traction assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and front and rear parking sensors.

Driver-assist technologies are thorough, including:

  • Radar cruise control with stop-and-go and automatic speed limit adjustment;
  • Blind-spot assist;
  • Emergency lane keeping;
  • Traffic sign recognition (which does not require a data plan);
  • Secondary collision-reduction system;
  • Smart brake support reverse;
  • Front cross-traffic alert with front cross-traffic braking.

New to the CX models is Cruising & Traffic Support, an automatic system also called Unresponsive Driver Support. This emergency-only system will decelerate and stop the vehicle if it detects that the driver is unresponsive to escalating alerts.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs have earned a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick. Read the report here.

Both PHEV models include a power sliding panoramic moonroof with tilt.

Both CX-70 PHEV models include a power-sliding panoramic moonroof with tilt.

The Crafted Cabin

Contemporary materials and harmonious colors and textures have a near-luxury presence throughout the cabin. Perforated Nappa leather seats in the Premium Plus model are supportive and comfortable for the hours between fuel stops. The steering wheel and shift lever are wrapped in rich, glove-soft leather.

The driver seat has eight-way power adjustments with a strong lumbar inflator. In the Premium Plus package, the front passenger also gets an eight-way power adjustment, up from the standard four-way power.

Most controls and readouts are ergonomically placed, with a functional mix of digital and manual buttons and switches. The 12.3-inch digital gauge array changes configurations according to the drive mode. Some categories, however, could be clearer to page through.

The 12.3-inch full-color center infotainment display is simple to access with the shift-console controller. It contains the usual lineup for phone connections, apps, navigation, connected services, audio, and other elements. The screen peeks above the center stack of AC and other climate controls, where the display is not prone to glare.

The rearview camera screen is divided into a broad view and an overhead view. Mazda has also added a unique “See Through View” for a wide-angle rear or front view.

The shift console is large and broad but constrained in space, yet there are other areas for small-item storage. The seatbelt reminder alert is especially annoying and insistent.

There are four charging USBs throughout the cabin, all of which are Type C. The wireless charging pad is in a nook at the base of the instrument panel. There is also a 12-volt plug at the charging e-bin for those with an older radar speed detector.

A door panel of the CX-70 shows the premium materials and precise assembly

The interior has an immaculate presence with quality materials and assembly.

Interior Function

There is full-bodied cabin space in the first and second rows. Because the PHEV’s battery pack is situated in the center of the floor structure, it does not compromise interior space.

Front headroom of 39.6 inches with the panoramic sunroof should suit most adults 6-foot-plus. With shoulder room of 59.2 inches (door to door), there is room to spread out while resting elbows on nicely padded armrests at the doors and center console.

Sightlines are unobstructed across the hood and out the back glass. Side mirrors are on the doors, not the windshield pillars, eliminating sightline issues while cornering. Spray-arm wipers are a smart feature for precise windshield cleaning.

Cabin soundproofing is traffic-calmed around town, but there is noticeable highway wind noise at the roof and side windows.

New for 2025 is Alexa built-in, a first for a Mazda crossover. Drivers can ask Alexa to change the temperature, the radio station, and even to control smart home devices.

Among the desirable features of the CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus are Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, ventilated and heated front seats, and keyless locking with push-button start. The tester’s list of features and advanced safety technologies is in the specifications box below.

Looking at the open cargo area

Generous cargo space is 42 inches wide at the tailgate opening, with 50.1 inches in length behind the back seat.

The cargo area with a variety of materials and a big cooler

The padded carpeted cargo liner is a useful option, $275.

Colossal Cargo

All CX-70 models have a split 60/40 second-row bench with seatback recline and a center foldout armrest. (Only the CX-90 offers second-row Captain’s chairs.)

The second row has tall headroom of 38.4 inches and max legroom of 39.4 inches, with fore-aft slide and recline. Back doors open wide to almost 90 degrees, an asset when buckling toddlers in child seats.

With the back seat folded, the rear cargo space could almost fit a sheet of plywood. The liftgate entry is 42 inches wide and 30 inches tall. Fold the back seat about 8 feet in length.

A standard 1,500-watt converter is an uncommon perk and an option for most other makes. It is handy for powering an air compressor, device chargers, or other gadgets.

Also new to the CX-70 are power folding rear seats from two buttons on the cargo side wall.

The subfloor storage compartment option, $100

The cargo area sub-trunk has an optional organizer accessory, $100.

Why Buy the Mazda CX-70 PHEV?

There are more than a dozen choices of plug-in hybrids in many price ranges. Mazda’s CX-90 and CX-70 plug-in hybrids are unique for their on-road charging capability.

Mazda marketers say the 2025 CX-70 is aimed at well-off empty nesters. However, this roomy SUV crossover will appeal to any well-off owner, with or without children.

I am not convinced that a CX-70 has more appeal than a three-row CX-90. The third row folds flat, providing as much cargo capacity as the CX-70. I understand that Mazda wanted another CX in the showroom; I just wish it were not as big as the CX-90.

There is a Mazda CX-60 in Australia, Japan, and Europe. Its powertrain choices are similar to those of the CX-70 in the U.S., including a plug-in hybrid. The big difference between the CX-60 and the CX-70 is size. It is 14 inches shorter, making it closer in size to the U.S.-spec Mazda CX-50.

Of course, Mazda will not speak of “future product,” only to say, “We’re focused on our current product line-up.”

You do not have to buy the top-line CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus model, but the tester shows how Mazda is moving its design and interiors upscale.

Get insider owner intel from the CX-70 forum.

A rear side view of a black CX-70

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 has standard all-wheel drive and a combined gas-electric cruising range of 490 miles.

Mazda CX-70 PHEV Specifications

Body style: midsize 5-passenger, 5-door AWD SUV crossover

Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and 68 kW electric motor;

Engine power: 189 hp at 6,000 rpm (185 hp with regular unleaded);

Engine torque: 192 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm with premium fuel, 184 lb.-ft. on regular unleaded;

Electric motor: 68 kW e-Skyactiv PHEV; 173 hp at 5,500 rpm; 199 lb.-ft. torque at 400 rpm;

Combined system power: 323 hp, using premium fuel; 319 hp with regular unleaded

Peak torque: 369 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm, with regular or unleaded fuel;

Battery: 17.8 kWh lithium-ion

Battery weight: 178 pounds

Estimated driving range: 26 to 32 miles battery electric; 490 miles combined driving range;

Transmission: 8-speed e-Skyactiv Drive automatic transmission with manual shift; with i-ACTIV all-wheel drive; drive modes of Sports/Off Road/Towing/EV

Fuel economy equivalent: 56 MPGe, combined gasoline and electric

Charging times, to 100 percent:

  • Level 1 (household 120-volt AC): 6 hours and 40 minutes
  • Level 2 (240V AC): 1 hour and 30 minutes

BY THE NUMBERS

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 39.6 to 75.3 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.6*/41.7 inches *w/moonroof

Rear head/leg room: 38.4/39.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 200.8/122.8 inches

Width/height: 84.9*/68.7** *mirror to mirror; w/shark fin antenna

Curb weight: 5,198 pounds

Turning circle: 41.2 feet

FEATURES

Standard CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus equipment includes: keyless locking and push-button start, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support and 2-position memory, 8-way power adjustable passenger seat, Kinematic posture control, quilted Nappa leather upholstery (1st and 2nd-row outboard seats), power panoramic sunroof, electric parking brake, carpeted floor mats (both rows);

Digital assets: 12.3-inch full-color center display; wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Bluetooth phone and audio; Bose 12-speaker audio system; 360-degree camera system with trailer hitch view;

Driver-assist systems: Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go with speed limit assist; emergency lane keeping; blind spot assist and monitoring; road keep assist; head-on traffic avoidance assist, Cruising and Traffic Support, driver attention support; front cross-traffic alert; front and rear parking sensors; lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist; rear cross-traffic alert; traffic sign recognition.

Safety features include: 8 air bags, blind-spot monitoring, ABS with brakeforce distribution; stability and traction controls with trailer sway control; hill-descent control and hill-launch assist; roll-stability control; secondary collision reduction.

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Braking: 4-wheel ventilated discs with brakeforce distribution and brake assist; 13.7-inch vented rotors front, 13.8-inch solid rotors rear;

Steering: Electric power rack-and-pinion with variable assist; 41.2-foot turning circle;

Suspension: 4-wheel independent with front double wishbone and rear multilink with stabilizer bar;

Tires and Wheels: 21-inch alloy wheels with machine-cut finish; Falken Ziex CT 60R all-season tires, 275/45; temporary spare.

PRICING

Base price CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus: $58,825, including $1,395 freight charge; price as tested: $59,275

Options on test vehicle: Melting Copper metallic paint $450

Where assembled: Hofu, Japan

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with 24-hour roadside service; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain; hybrid components including battery 8-years/100,000-miles, and 10-years/150,000-miles for California

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Review

by | Aug 11, 2023 | 0 comments

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Review

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid SUV crossover is a trailblazer for its on-road charging capability

A side view of the white CX-90 along Mission Bay

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 debuts the new nameplate and a completely re-engineered and redesigned large SUV crossover. (Photos by Mark Maynard)

Table of Contents

Charging While Driving
CX-90 Overview
Pricing
3 CX-90 Powertrains
Ride and Handling
Safety Technologies
Interior Function
Back Seats and Cargo Space
Why Buy the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The girlfriend-wife and I just returned from a 1,109-mile round-trip road trip from San Diego to Sacramento in the 2024 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid. The three-row SUV crossover performed without a hiccup, returning on average 27.8 to 29.8 mpg; I tried but couldn’t get it to 30 mpg. However, the consistent 28-plus mpg at 70 mph-plus was acceptable to me for the CX-90’s all-wheel drive and curb weight of 5,243 pounds. And our return trip was laden with weighty vintage items.

Along Interstate 5 South, the nine-hour return trip traversed toasty temperatures of 104 degrees through the expansive agricultural fields and row after row of fruit and nut orchards. In the heat of the day, two 18-wheel semis adjacent to our lane had blowouts on trailers, and there was evidence of many more blowouts from the frequent scatterings of tire chunks.

From the onboard vehicle data pages, I kept an eye on the engine temperature, which never budged past a couple of hash marks below normal. And that was with the AC at a constant 66 degrees and continual use of the seat ventilators.

The 21-inch Falken ZIEX CT60 all-season tires (275/45R21) have a substantial footprint and uttered no complaints about speed or load.

I tested a top-line 2024 CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus that was $58,920, with one option for Rhodium White metallic paint, $595. The PHEV has three trims, which start at $48,820, including the $1,395 freight charge from Japan.

The driver area and steering wheel in the CX-90

The interior has a hand-crafted appearance and refined materials.

Charging While Driving

An MSRP near $60,000 is a lot for a mainstream, family-class, three-row SUV crossover, but this plug-in hybrid goes where few competitors can. The 2024 Mazda plug-in hybrid system has a unique feature that allows the hybrid battery to recharge while driving. That technological advancement converts a dutiful PHEV for mainly around-town use to a prime road-trip cruiser.

The CX-90’s EV range of 26 miles seems insignificant, but it has the considerable time benefit of not having to be “refilled” — for 90 minutes — at a public charging station while on a trip.

Creeping along in clogged commuter traffic in EV mode is rewarding. And if I were to run out of fuel, 26 miles would surely get me to a filling station.

All hybrids and electric vehicles have regenerative capabilities to capture lost energy while braking and during engine deceleration or coasting. But the captured energy is incremental and does not “refill” the battery.

There are more than a dozen choices of plug-in hybrids in many price ranges. From my research, only Volvo offers a charging mode while driving its XC60 T8 Recharge and XC40 Recharge SUVs. Volvo’s “Hold and Charge” function can charge and bank electric power for later use or charge the battery while driving.

The panoramic power moonroof in the Mazda CX-90.

The panoramic power moonroof.

2024 Mazda CX-90 Overview

Mazda went boldly with its redesigned and larger 2024 CX-90 three-row SUV. It is Mazda’s largest vehicle, and it replaces the previous-generation CX-9.

The CX-90 has an ambitious lineup of 11 trim levels with seating configurations for eight, seven, or six. There are three choices of electrified powertrains, two of which feature a new mild-hybrid 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine.

Compared to the outgoing Mazda CX-9, the 2024 CX-90 is 2.2 inches longer, about an inch narrower, on a wheelbase that is longer by 7.5 inches.

Mazda has been surprised by the early sales of the 2024 CX-90 PHEV. Initially, the product planners expected the gasoline versions to outsell the plug-in two to one. “What we are seeing is a huge demand for the plug-in, and we are ramping up production,” the spokesman said.

And there will be more plug-in innovators to come. Europe and Japan have hybrid versions of the smaller CX-60 and CX-80 SUVs. But a CX-70 is on the way for the U.S., and a CX-50 hybrid.

A schematic of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 chassis showing battery placement

The CX-90 hybrid battery is positioned in the center of the floor structure.

2024 Mazda CX-90 Pricing

Gasoline models:

  • CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select $40,970;
  • 3.3 Turbo Preferred $44,820;
  • 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus $47,275;
  • 3.3 Turbo Premium $50,275;
  • 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus $54,325;
  • 3.3 Turbo S $53,125;
  • 3.3 Turbo S Premium $57,825;
  • 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus $61,325.

All retail pricing includes the $1,375 freight charge from Japan.

Mazda CX-90 PHEV

  • PHEV Preferred $48,820;
  • PHEV Premium $54,275;
  • PHEV Premium Plus $58,325.

Hybrid components, including the battery, have a warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Check here for current Mazda USA pricing and offers.

CX-90 Gas and Hybrid Powertrains

All Turbo models feature M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with stop-start at idle.

The uplevel e-SKYACTIV G 3.3-liter turbocharged Turbo S engine has 340 horsepower and 369 foot-pounds of torque at 2,000 rpm on the recommended premium fuel, or 319 hp on 87 octane. It has fuel economy ratings of 23 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 mpg combined.

The entry Turbo engine has 280 hp and 332 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000 rpm using the recommended 87 octane. Its mileage ratings are nearly identical, with 24 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 mpg combined.

There is a myriad of reasons why Mazda moved away from a V-6 engine to an inline 6. (The six-cylinder is used in non-hybrid models).

Among the reasons, an inline-6 keeps the engine nice and narrow, a spokesman said. And the design creates a slight efficiency of the powertrain. Also, with the CX-90’s double-wishbone front suspension, the inline engine benefits steering feel and stability, he said. But it is also a wider suspension compared to more economical suspensions. And that also benefits the tighter turning circle because the turn angle was increased. That bit of engineering trimmed about a half foot from the turning circle, now a manageable 38.1 feet.

A view of the plug-in hybrid engine bay.

The CX-90 PHEV powertrain is comprised of an inline four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 17.8-kWh battery pack.

The Plug-In Choice

Mazda has a unique tuning technology to allow the CX-90 PHEV to recharge the battery while driving.

The CX-90’s hybrid powertrain is comprised of an inline four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 17.8-kWh battery pack. The direct-injected e-Skyactiv 2.5-liter engine makes 189 hp with premium fuel or 185 hp with regular unleaded. The engine is paired with a 68-kW electric motor, which adds 173 hp and 199 lb.-ft. of torque at a very low 400 rpm.

Combined system power adds up to 323 hp when using premium fuel or 319 hp with regular unleaded. Peak torque of 369 foot-pounds at 4,000 rpm is the same with regular or unleaded fuel.

The CX-90 PHEV has an estimated driving range of 26 miles battery electric and a combined driving range of 490 miles. That peak range, however, depends on the use of air conditioning, seat heaters, and other electronic features. According to the onboard computer, I could charge while driving to 30 and 32 miles of range while on the road.

Mazda CX-90 PHEV Charging

Electric vehicle charging times, from 20 percent to 80 percent:

  • Level 1 (household 120-volt AC): 6 hours and 40 minutes
  • Level 2 (240V AC): 1 hour and 30 minutes
Underfloor storage of the charging cable for the CX-90 PHEV

Charging cable storage below the cargo floor.

e-Skyactiv PHEV

In Normal mode, when there is sufficient battery charge, the hybrid system will prioritize EV propulsion depending on the situation and conditions.

When the battery’s state of charge is below 20 percent, the system will keep the gas engine fired to charge the battery to make EV assist available.

EV mode is engaged through the Mi-Drive controller on the shift console.

The gas engine can turn on in EV mode when the accelerator pedal reaches the kick-down switch; this puts CX-90 back into Normal mode for quicker acceleration.

The back seat electronic climate controls in the 2024 Mazda CX-90

Electronic climate controls for the second row.

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

Power flow to the axles is rear-biased and channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift. There are driving modes of Normal, Sport, EV, and Off-Road.

I experienced several rough transmission shifts, sometimes on deceleration or electric mode as I rolled on power. Could that be a problem down the road?

Mazda says its plug-in hybrid has a comparable level of performance to the inline-6 models.

I sampled Sport mode in several situations but was satisfied with the performance in Normal. Get on the gas hard, and acceleration can be swift. However, passing power takes a heavy foot at speed on the Interstate.

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV has 21-inch Falken ZIEX CT60 all season tires.

The CX-90 PHEV has 21-inch Falken ZIEX CT60 all season tires.

CX-90 PHEV Ride and Handling

I wouldn’t say the CX-90 PHEV is sporty to drive, but it is engineered for confident handling under pressure and in evasive maneuvers.

For handling control, Mazda’s so-called Kinematic Posture Control applies a bit of brake force to the inside rear wheel during cornering. Because the CX-90 is a rear-drive-based platform, KPC minimizes the tippy feel for more natural poise through corners.

Mazda does not use adaptive dampers to help smooth the ride. The steel spring suspension underpinning the CX-90 lays down a luxuriously compliant — almost carpeted — ride on smooth surfaces. But the attitude swiftly changes over rough road with jarring impacts. There is much trucky head toss over speed bumps and driveway entrances.

The variable assist steering force feels overly firm at low speeds, at least too stiff for two-finger tooling through mall-garage parking.

At speed on the interstate, I had to make minor but continual steering adjustments. I wanted the CX-90 to settle down and track, but the effect was a slow ping-pong between the white lines. However, the steering control was more straight-line direct on smooth blacktop.

In constant, hands-on control situations, I have grown to appreciate (and somewhat trust) Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist. These systems keep watch on the lanes and will work with navigation to speed up and slow the vehicle, usually to a stop in heavy traffic. But Mazda does not believe in semi-autonomous driving aids. The brand of zoom-zoom wants the driver to maintain control all the time.

While I appreciate the philosophy, navigating five lanes of constricted downtown freeway under construction at 65 mph can be nerve-racking.

The CX-90 shift console is broad but with limited storage space.

The shift console is broad but with limited storage space.

CX-90 Safety Technologies

Mazda might not prioritize semi-autonomous driving, but it has armed the CX-90 with layers of safety features and advanced technologies.

Among the features are eight air bags, hill start and hill descent assist, off-road traction assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and front and rear parking sensors.

Driver-assist technologies are thorough, including:

  • Radar cruise control with stop-and-go and automatic speed limit adjustment;
  • Blind-spot assist;
  • Emergency lane keeping;
  • Traffic sign recognition (which does not require a data plan);
  • Secondary collision-reduction system;
  • Smart brake support reverse;
  • Front cross-traffic alert with front cross traffic braking.

• Neither National Highway Traffic Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) https://www.iihs.org/ have rated the 2024 Mazda CX-90. Check their websites for the latest ratings: NHTSA  and IIHS.

Interior Function

There is full-bodied cabin space in the first and second rows. The CX-90 PHEV’s battery pack is situated in the center of the floor structure, where it does not compromise interior space.

Front headroom of 39.2 inches with the panoramic sunroof should suit most adults 6-foot-plus. With shoulder room of 59.2 inches (door to door), there is room to spread out while resting elbows on nicely padded armrests at the doors and center console.

Sightlines are unobstructed across the hood and out the back glass. Side mirrors are on the doors, not the windshield pillars, eliminating sightline issues while cornering.

Cabin soundproofing is traffic-calmed around town, but there is modest wind or tire noise on the highway.

Check the list of CX-90 PHEV features and advanced safety technologies in the specifications box below.

Door panel storage.

Door panel storage.

Crafted Appearance

Contemporary materials and harmonious colors and textures are nicely crafted throughout the cabin. The perforated Nappa leather seating is supportive and comfortable for the hours between fuel stops. The driver gets eight-way power adjustments with a strong lumbar inflator. And in the Premium Plus package, the front passenger also gets eight-way power adjustment, up from the standard four-way power.

Most controls and readouts are ergonomically placed. The 12.3-inch digital gauge array changes configurations according to the drive mode, and some categories are confusing to page through and open for greater detail.

The 12.3-inch full-color center infotainment display is simple to access with the shift-console controller. It contains the usual lineup of phone connections, apps, navigation, connected services, audio, and other elements. The screen peeks above the center stack of AC and climate controls, but the display’s placement is not prone to glare.

The rearview camera is split for a broad view and the overhead. Mazda added a unique “See Through View” for a wide-angle rear or front view.

The shift console is large and broad but with constrained space. And there are too few areas for small-item storage. Especially annoying and insistent is the seatbelt reminder alert.

There are six charging USBs throughout the cabin, but all are Type C. Those of us still with the common iPhone Lightning cable are out of luck. And the wireless charging pad in a nook at the base of the instrument panel is narrow and won’t fit some of the larger phones. There is, however, a 12-volt plug at the charging e-bin that is still functional for some radar speed detectors, I suppose.

 

The CX-90 back seat viewed through open back doors

Back doors open wide to almost 90 degrees, an asset when buckling toddlers in child seats.

Back Seats and Cargo Space

The second row has tall headroom of 38.6 inches and max legroom of 39.4 inches, with fore-aft slide and recline. The captain’s chairs in the Premium Plus tester allowed step-through space to the third row. And there’s also a small flip-up cupholder on the seat side.

Back doors open wide to almost 90 degrees, an asset when buckling toddlers in child seats. The second-row seats tip and slide for third-row access, but the three-seat bench is strictly kid class (as are most in this midsize three-row crossovers).

The open CX-90 cargo area with seats folded.

Fold the second row for 4 feet in length or 7 feet with both rows folded.

Despite the longer wheelbase and slightly longer body length, the cargo space is comparable to the CX-9. Almost 15 cubic feet of space is behind the third row, ideal for slinging plastic grocery bags. Fold the second and third rows for 74.2 cu. ft., stacked floor to headliner.

The liftgate entry is 42 inches wide and 30 inches tall. Fold the second row for 4 feet in length or 7 feet with both rows folded.

It’s also convenient to have two 150-watt, 120-volt household plugs plus a 12-volt plug to power an air compressor, chargers, or other gadgets.

Third-row legroom is short at 30.4 inches.

Third-row legroom is short at 30.4 inches.

Why Buy the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV?

Mazda’s advanced-tech tuning to provide on-road battery recharging is trailblazing. It is easy enough to plug in at a public charging facility, but the state of those chargers is often dirty or non-functioning. And nobody wants to take the time from vacation travel to charge up.

I have a Level 2 home charger in my garage, but I didn’t need it for this test. While driving in town, the battery added charge incrementally to shift the load from the engine. And to me, the performance while on gasoline power felt the same as with the electric boost.

You do not have to buy the top-line CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus model, but the tester shows how Mazda is moving its design and interiors upscale.

Good things are en route for this still-independent carmaker.

A rear three quarter view of a white CX-90 along Mission Bay

The recharge function elevates the CX-90 PHEV from an efficient, electrified short-range family SUV to an all-around road-trip hero.

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus Specifications

Body style: midsize, 7-passenger plug-in hybrid SUV Crossover with standard AWD

Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and 68 kW electric motor;

Engine power: 189 hp at 6,000 rpm (185 hp with regular unleaded);

Engine torque: 192 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm with premium fuel, 184 lb.-ft. on regular unleaded;

Combined system power: 323 hp, using premium fuel; 319 hp with regular unleaded

Peak torque: 369 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm, with regular or unleaded fuel;

Electric motor: 68 kW e-Skyactiv PHEV; 173 hp at 5,500 rpm; 199 lb.-ft. torque at 400 rpm;

Battery: 17.8 kWh lithium-ion;

Estimated driving range: 26 miles battery electric; 490 miles combined power range;

Transmission: PHEV e-Skyactiv Drive 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shift; Drive modes of Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and EV

Fuel economy: 25 mpg combined city/highway; premium fuel recommended for max power

0-60 mph acceleration: 6.2 seconds, per Edmunds.com

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 14.9 to 40 cubic feet; 2nd and 3rd-row seats folded 74.2 cu. ft.

Front head/leg room: 39.2/41.7 inches

2nd-row head/leg room: 38.6/39.4 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 36.9/30.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 201.6/122.8 inches

Curb weight: 5,243 pounds

Turning circle: 38.1 feet

CX-90 PHEV CHASSIS HARDWARE

Braking: 4-wheel discs with brakeforce distribution and brake assist; 13.7-inch vented rotors front, 13.8-inch solid rotors rear;

Steering: Power rack-and-pinion with variable assist; 38.1 feet turning circle;

Suspension: 4-wheel independent with front double wishbone and rear multilink with stabilizer bar.

Tires and Wheels: 21-inch alloy wheels with machine-cut finish; 275/45 tires.

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Keyless entry with push-button start, Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, rearview camera, power panoramic sunroof, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar, 8-way power adjustable passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, heated 2nd-row seats, hands-free power rear liftgate, electric parking brake, windshield wiper deicer, power-folding and dimming side mirrors (heated) with turn-signal indicators, LED exterior lighting, 12.3-inch full-color center display;

Safety features include: 8 air bags, hill start and hill descent assist, offroad traction assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, front and rear parking sensors;

Driver-Assist Technologies: radar cruise control with stop and go and automatic speed limit adjustment; blind spot assist; emergency lane keeping; traffic sign recognition; secondary collision reduction system; smart brake support reverse; front cross-traffic alert with front cross-traffic braking; 360-degree monitor with see-through view;

PRICING

Base price: $58,325, including $1,375 freight charge; price as tested $58,920

Options on test vehicle: Rhodium White metallic paint $595

Where assembled: Hofu, Japan

Warranty: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with 24-hour roadside service; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain; hybrid components including battery 8-years/100,000-miles.

Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Review

by | Feb 22, 2023 | 0 comments

Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Review

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 gives a leg up as a family-class adventure SUV with standard all-wheel drive

A trail side view of a Mazda CX 50in zircon sand metallic paint

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Turbo is sold exclusively with all-wheel drive. Turbo model pricing starts at $43,575. (Photos courtesy of Mazda or as credited)

Table of Contents

Mazda CX-50 Overview
Going Up the Country
CX-5 to CX-50 Comparo
Pricing
CX-50 Powertrains
Curb Weight Dilemma
Ride and Handling
Driver-Assist Technologies
Back Seats and Cargo
Why Buy the Mazda CX-50?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Mazda CX-50 crossover SUV is a stepping stone along the brand’s plan to move upmarket. The brand’s evolution has been ongoing since the slightly larger CX-30 replaced the CX-3. Next is the larger CX-90 three-row SUV replacing the CX-9.

The CX-50 shares sales space with the smaller CX-5, which is likely to be phased out as the sophistication of the CX-50 is recognized. After all, the 2023 CX-50 starts at just $850 more than the CX-5. The larger CX-50 is marketed as an off-road adventure vehicle, Mazda says. Both models are the brand’s top sellers, hitting a combined 16,575 sales at the end of 2022.

The 2023 Mazda MX-30 EV goes on sale in California dealerships this spring but in limited numbers. Mazda says the MX-30 is a full battery-electric small SUV that will work best for urban drivers. It has a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery and a driving range of 100 miles. Sold in two trim levels, starting prices are $35,385 and $38,395. Built in Hiroshima, Japan, pricing includes the $1,275 freight charge.

Competitors to the Mazda CX-50 include the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4. Some of these have their own “X,” “Wilderness,” and “Off Road” trim levels.

The driver area with wide infotainment screen for the camera, navigation, and cabin controls

A 10.25-inch center display for the rearview camera, maps, apps, and other cabin controls.

Mazda CX-50 Overview

Mazda USA has plans to move the brand upmarket to generate higher revenue per vehicle, according to a report in Automotive News. And at the same time, Mazda is going country, or at least more adventurous in how its vehicles are equipped.

The CX-50 was developed for North America, particularly to support customers’ active and outdoor lifestyles in this region, Jeff Guyton, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, said in a release.

Guyton also said there are plans (in the coming years) to offer an electrified CX-50, including a traditional hybrid model, which will use a Toyota system. More information about electrified models will be shared later, he said.

Trail-riding capability is necessary for those just starting their journey into an active lifestyle, Guyton said. Among the capability elements are standard all-wheel drive, high-strength roof rails, and reinforced B-pillars and door jambs for strapping gear to the roof.

The CX-50 is the first Mazda vehicle to be assembled at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) plant in Huntsville, Ala.

A view of the front passenger area with the new terracotta colored leather upholster.

The CX-50 debuts a terracotta interior color with heated and ventilated front seats.

Going Up the Country

Whether the adventure trend is pandemic based or just a general malaise of urban bitchiness, carmakers are adding off-road-influenced SUVs to help people get the hell out of town. There are lots of jacked-up pickup choices, but the uprated adventure SUVs are fewer but growing.

Long the territory of Jeep and Subaru, the dual-sport SUV choices are growing:

• Ford Motor staked its claim to the outdoors with the new Bronco and Bronco Sport, both with elevated pricing.

• Toyota now offers two adventure-oriented models of the RAV4 (Adventure and RAV4 TRD Off-Road), with a range of quality survival accessories.

• Honda has its Passport TrailSport, $45,000, with standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive and a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The TrailSport has a 10mm wider track for trail stability and an increased ground clearance of 8.1 inches.

• Kia has an X-Pro trim for the Sportage.

And now Mazda is joining the trend in family-class adventure SUVs with the compact-class, five-seat CX-50.

Mazda has engineered its famed sport-tuned handling into the CX-50, but its off-roading credentials are caught in a crossfire.

It has rugged fender overriders for trail riding, but the suspension is not raised. Ground clearance of 8.6 inches (or 8.5 for the Meridian Edition) is slightly more than half an inch more than for the CX-5. The wider CX-50 on the longer wheelbase with 20-inch tires also has a wide turning circle of at least 39 feet. However, the tester was able to curl neatly into tight parking spaces. Making a U-turn on the trail might be less tidy.

A Meridian Edition CX-50 pulling a camping teardrop trailer on a forest trail

The CX-50 has a 3,500-pound tow rating with the turbo engine.

CX-5 to CX-50 Comparo

Owners who know the CX-5 will likely immediately notice the larger body of the CX-50. Here is a look at other size comparisons:

Wheelbase: The CX-50 wheelbase is a significant 4.6 inches longer than the CX-5. The longer wheelbase gives the CX-50 a more settled highway ride.

Overall length: The CX-50 is 5.7 inches longer, mainly benefiting cargo space. Back-seat legroom has a generous reach of 39.8 inches, but that depends on the person sitting ahead and how far back their seat is positioned.

Body Width: Total body width with the side mirrors folded is 3 inches wider at 80.8 inches (mirror to mirror). However, cabin space from door to door is 1.2 inches narrower in the front seats but 1.2 inches wider in the back seats.

Body height, with the shark fin antenna: The CX-50 roof is 2.4 inches lower than the CX-5, or 66.3 vs. 63.9 inches for CX-50.

Front head and legroom: With the lower roofline, headroom in the CX-50 was trimmed by about a half inch to 38.6 inches vs. 39.2 inches in the CX-5. Legroom gains 0.7 inch or 41.7 inches vs 41 in the CX-5.

Rear legroom: The CX-50 gains just 0.2 inch in rear legroom, or 39.8 vs. 39.6. The rear bench is short on thigh support, and the seatback is somewhat erect with no recline function; that complicates comfort for adults but is acceptable for the school carpool.

Cargo space: The CX-50 has less than a cubic foot of space (0.9 cu.ft.) than the CX-5. Using the EPA measurement standard, there are 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the back seat vs. 30 cu.ft. in the CX-5.

A view of the dashboard to show off the baseball-type cross stitching in terracotta color

Baseball-style cross stitching shows off the more premium interior elements.

2023 Mazda CX-50 Pricing

There are 10 trim levels of the 2023 Mazda CX-50, all with all-wheel drive, a choice of two 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines, and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Starting prices, including the freight charge, range from $28,825 with black fabric upholstery to the midrange CX-50 2.5 S Preferred with black leatherette and gray fabric trim. The top-line CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus (today’s tester) starts at $43,575.

The new-for-2023 Meridian Edition, $38,830, has a few more outdoorsy elements, such as black metallic 18-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain Falken Tires (225/60). Other Meridian-unique features include a matte black hood graphic, black wheel locks and lug nuts, and side rocker panels to help fend off scrapes and stone chips to the body.

The Meridian Edition has its own paint colors of Polymetal Gray or Zircon Sand exterior paint, $395 each. All seven paint colors are metallic. Only Jet Black Mica and Ingot Blue Metallic are no-cost choices; Machine Gray Metallic is $595.

New this year is the two-tone interior of Terracotta leather with black interior accents.

Mazda’s Mi-Drive is a standard feature with driving modes of Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing. The Turbo models have a tow rating of 3,500 pounds.

Check here for current pricing and offers.

The panoramic sunroof, a first for Mazda

The panoramic moonroof is a first for Mazda.

Meridian Apex Package

Boosting the Meridian equipment list is the optional Apex Package, $1,235. It includes roof-mounted black crossbars, a roof platform, and front and rear splash guards. The roof platform allows customers to secure even more outdoor equipment, including the rooftop tent from Mazda’s accessory line.

Meridian Choice Package

Optional for any CX-50 model in either powertrain is the Meridian Choice Package, $1,899. It is a dealer-installed option, including roof-mounted black crossbars, roof platform, front and rear splash guards, side rocker garnish, and black wheel locks and lug nuts. The package also includes a matte black hood graphic with a different design from that on the Meridian Edition.

The flat black hood graphic on the Meridian Edition

The flat black hood graphic on the Meridian Edition.

CX-50 Powertrains

Both four-cylinder engines for the CX-50 are designated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter, with direct injection. And all models have a six-speed automatic transmission.

The base non-turbocharged engine has power ratings of 187 horsepower and peak torque of 186 foot-pounds at 4,000 rpm.

The twin-turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5 has split power ratings depending on the fuel used, 87 octane or premium fuel.

Running 87 octane, the 2.5 turbo has power ratings of 227 hp and 310 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000 rpm. Pay for the premium fuel, and the ratings rise to 256 hp and 320 lb.-ft. torque at 2,500 rpm.

Mazda cites no power improvement with premium fuel for the base engine. Neither Mazda nor the EPA indicates a variance in fuel-economy ratings between regular and premium.

Sport mode kicks the turbo engine into rapid acceleration without hesitation. I used Sport mode frequently in town because the uptake is sharp and the force is not abrupt or wheel-spinning. Sport is also strategic in the clogged daily commute to guard your line. Acceleration in Normal is more gradual but not power starved.

For those who plan to tow something into the wilderness, the turbocharged engine has a higher tow rating. It has a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds vs. 2,000 pounds for the non-turbo engine.

The turbo engine has 227 horsepower

The twin turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5 has power ratings of 227-hp or 256-hp, whether running 87 octane or premium fuel. (Mark Maynard photo)

Fuel Economy Ratings

EPA estimated mileage ratings for the base 2.5-liter engine are 24 mpg city, 30 highway, and 27 mpg combined, on 87 octane. With a full 15.9-gallon tank, owners can expect a total driving range of 427 miles, per FuelEconomy.gov.

The CX-50 2.5 Turbo has mileage ratings of 23/29/25 mpg city/hwy/combined on 87 octane, or a total range of 395 miles.

According to the onboard computer, most of my mileage around town was 15-16 mpg and up to 21-22 mpg on the highway. I’ll blame the reserved mileage on Sport mode. But it might be more than that.

The six speed automatic shift console

A six-speed automatic transmission is standard in all models of CX-50.

Curb Weight Dilemma

New owners gripe about CX-50 mileage, but its EPA fuel-economy ratings are just an mpg or three different from most of its competitors.

Curb weights tell another story that will influence fuel economy. The Mazda CX-50 is heavier than most of its compact all-wheel-drive competitors. The top-line tester weighs 3,907 pounds. The Honda CR-V is 19 pounds heavier but has the best EPA mileage ratings in the segment of 40/34/37 mpg.

Here is a look at other competitors’ curb weights with mileage ratings:

Subaru Forester Wilderness, 3,620 lbs. — heaviest of the Forester models; 25/28/26 mpg

Toyota RAV4 Adventure: 3,615 lbs.; 25/33/28 mpg

Hyundai Tucson: 3,666 lbs.; 23/28/25 mpg

Nissan Rogue: 3,737 lbs.; 28/34/31 mpg

Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige: 3,834 lbs.; 23/28/25 mpg

The driver-info gauge array

A 7-inch LCD gauge display.

CX-50 Turbo Ride and Handling

In my test of the CX-50 Turbo, the highway ride was on glide control. It rode solid and steady at interstate speeds and with little variance, whether along California’s grooved concrete or blacktop.

As comfortably as the CX-50 rolls on the interstate, the ride is less svelte around town. The suspension is firm, even hard. I expect Mazda strapped down the CX-50 for sporty handling, but the ride can be jarring over bad pavement and potholes.

The front suspension uses MacPherson struts with a torsion-beam rear axle. Torsion beams are flat in design, which benefits cargo space, but the rear ride quality can feel clunky over bumps.

Mazda’s G-Vectoring traction-control system uses the center and rear differentials to control weight transfer, which is helpful on-road or off. There is confident front-end grip through enthusiastic cornering.

In the snow or dirt, Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive system is masterful at anticipating wheel slip before barely an inch of traction is lost. Mazda says it is a predictive system that monitors 27 sensors more than 200 times a second.

Rather than moving power “from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip,” the i-Active system directs engine torque to the necessary wheel to maintain forward momentum.

Mazda also stepped up and gave the CX-50 four-wheel disc brakes a millimeter or three larger than the competition. There are 12.8-inch ventilated rotors in front and 12.8-inch solid rotors rear.

Tire and wheel packages range from 17 inches on entry models to 18 inches on the off-road-focused Meridian Edition. Premium Plus and Turbo models are on 20-inchers. The Premium Plus Turbo tester was fitted with 20-inch Goodyear Eagle Touring tires 245/45.

The 20-inch black alloy wheels have bright outlines for a handsome appearance

Premium Plus and Turbo models are fitted with 20-inch Goodyear Eagle Touring tires. (Mark Maynard photo)

CX-50 Interior Function

The interior layout is ergonomically designed and straightforward to use. Sightlines are open across the hood and over the shoulder. But the 360-degree-view monitor in the Premium Plus package is an enabler when in tight parking situations.

The tester had desirable standard features, such as the heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat, and a six-way front passenger seat.

There is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but a wireless phone charging pad is only offered in the top-trim Turbo Premium Plus. Nor is there an interior tailgate release, only at the tailgate and the key fob.

Interior textures and colors enhance a premium appearance. The tester’s terracotta-and-black leather upholstery, with perforated centers, is handsomely set off with terracotta-color baseball-type stitching. The stitching also spans the dashboard face and upper door panels.

Standard on upper-trim models is a panoramic moonroof, a first for Mazda.

Not so enjoyable for me is the nagging and insistent alert should the driver use left-foot braking with the accelerator. And the same tone nags until the seat belt is secured.

The list of standard features is highlighted in the specs box below.

The back seats in the CX-50

Back-seat legroom has a generous reach of 39.8 inches, but the seat bottom is short on thigh support, and the back is somewhat erect without recline.

Mazda CX-50 Accessories

Another notable omission in the CX-50’s list of features is a power inverter with a household plug. A power inverter, now typical in many new vehicles, allows external electrical devices to be used with power from the vehicle.

A power inverter is handy for outdoor enthusiasts to plug in an inflator for tires, air mattresses, and inner tubes or play video games.

A new owner can buy a plug-in inverter, but Mazda should have considered including this for their new adventure SUV.

Also missing among the standard features of the $43K tester was a retractable roller cover, a $225 accessory. In today’s rampant smash-and-grab thefts, the cover is essential equipment to help keep valuables out of view.

Otherwise, a few camping and road-trip accessories are listed below. But, of course, dealer pricing might vary, and installation is not included in the price.

Roof Top Tent, $1,899: The tent sleeps one or two and has large doors, windows, and skylights. Mazda claims four-season weather protection with a rainfly and waterproof coating. The package includes a ladder and 2.5-inch-thick foam mattress.

Roof Platform, $899: Strap down large items, such as a full-size spare tire. Crossbars are required, adding $350.

Trailer Hitch Cargo Box, $900. Add another 13 cubic feet of storage with this rear-mounted, waist-level box. It slots into most 2- and 1¼-inch hitch receivers — but the box also might create a tail-dragging scrape through dips in the trail.

All-Weather Floor Mats, $150. These heavy-duty rubber mats are ideal replacements for carpeted mats.

Cargo Blocks, $50. Brace your groceries, sports equipment, and other gear.

The CX-50 accessory bike mount with a mountain bike

A bike carrier, tent and roof platform are among the CX-50 accessories.

CX-50 Safety Ratings and Features

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the new Mazda CX-50 its highest award of Top Safety Pick+. In IIHS testing, the CX-50 earned good ratings in the institute’s six crashworthiness evaluations:
• Driver-side small overlap front
• Passenger-side small overlap front
• Moderate overlap front
• Original side
• Roof strength
• Head restraint tests

Its front crash prevention system earned a superior rating in the vehicle-to-vehicle and daytime vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations. The CX-50 also has good or acceptable rated headlights standard across all trims, garnering IIHS’s higher-tier award.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not yet tested the Mazda CX-50.

Driver-Assist Technologies

Mazda has equipped the CX-50 with a range of driver-assist technologies, but the grouping does not add up to Level 2 semi-autonomous driving.

Among the technologies are hill-launch assist, lane departure warning and lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and radar cruise control.

With the assist technologies activated, the CX-50 would not stay centered in the lane. Blind Spot Assist, however, will add a minor steering intervention to help the driver avoid a collision.

The Turbo Premium Plus package adds such safety tech as traffic jam assist (rerouting), front and rear parking sensors, rear smart brake support, and blind-spot prevention

The open cargo area of the CX-50 with back seats folded.

Fold the back seat for flat sleeping space of 6-plus-feet in length. (Mark Maynard photo)

Cargo Space

Car campers have 6.3 feet of flat space for sleeping when the 60/40 back seat is folded. The area is about 42 inches wide by 29.6 inches tall to the headliner. Oddly, I found only two tie-down anchors but four bag hooks. On either side at entry are two jug-size indents.

Space behind the back seat is wide at 42.6 inches and flat for about 30 cubic feet of space, stacked to the headliner.

A temporary spare is stored below the floor.  In the event of an off-road flat,  however, the small spare could be problematic.

Why Buy the Mazda CX-50?

Mazda has a built-in fan club with its CX-5 and CX-50. A check of Mazda CX-50 forums and social media shows excited reports from CX-5 owners who traded up to the CX-50 after a test drive.

The new CX-50 owners like the larger cabin — though they say cargo space isn’t quite as large as they’d like. Other comments suggest that the interior is more luxurious than the Subaru Forester. The biggest complaints were about the disappointing fuel economy and the firm ride.

With Mazda’s elite engineering and a network of traction-control assists, the CX-50 is safe and secure for families to try trail riding. New owners to off-road driving must use common sense when choosing their routes. The CX-50 will be a capable scamp along forest trails, but Jeep-grade excursions will eat it alive.

An on-road rear view of the Mazda CX-50

The CX-50 is the first Mazda vehicle out of the automaker’s new manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Ala., a joint venture with Toyota.

2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-seat, 5-door AWD SUV

Engine: twin-scroll turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5 with direct injection; 227-hp with 87 octane, 256-hp with premium fuel; 310 lb.-ft. torque, 87 octane; 320 lb.-ft. torque, premium

Transmission: Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic

Fuel economy: 23/29/25 mpg city/hwy/combined on 87 octane; 395 miles total range.

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (w/turbo engine)

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 15.9 gallons

Cargo space: 31.4 to 56.3 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.6*/41.7 inches *w/moonroof

Rear head/leg room: 38.6/39.8 inches

Length/wheelbase: 195.8/110.8 inches

Width/height: 80.8 inches (mirror to mirror)/63.9 inches

Curb weight: 3,907 pounds

Turning circle: 39 feet

FEATURES

CX-50 Turbo standard equipment includes: smart-key entry with push-button ignition, 10.25-inch color center display, active-driving display, radar cruise control, rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio, Mazda Connected Services, wireless Android and Apple Carplay, electric parking brake, leather-trimmed upholstery, power driver’s seat with 2-position memory, power passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, remote power liftgate, rear AC vents, 4 USB ports, 12-speaker Bose audio system;

Exterior features include: black 20-inch wheels with P245/45 all-season tires, rain-sensing wipers, wiper de-icer, rear roof spoiler, power-folding side mirrors (automatic on engine shutoff), adaptive front lighting (turning headlights), LED headlights and taillights, high-beam control, roof rails, rear privacy glass;

Turbo Premium Plus features include: heated rear seats, 360-degree view monitor, traffic jam assist, front and rear parking sensors, rear smart brake support, blind-spot prevention, auto-dimming driver-side mirror, Mazda navigation system, active driving display, traffic sign recognition, frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, wireless phone charger.

Safety features include: 7 air bags, hill-launch assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert, dynamic stability and traction controls, brake assist with brake-force control.

PRICING

CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus base price: $43,575, including $1,275 freight charge; price as tested $43,970

Options on test vehicle: Zircon Sand Metallic paint $395

Where assembled: Huntsville, Ala.

Warranties: 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain; 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance

Mazda CX-30 Review — The Young Sophisticate

by | Jun 8, 2021 | 0 comments

Mazda CX-30 Review — The Young Sophisticate

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo crossover doesn’t seem as small as a subcompact and is more premium in its interior presence than some in this segment

The front side view of the CX-30 Turbo

There is sophisticated simplicity to the Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo. (Photos courtesy of Mazda)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Horsepower isn’t everything at Mazda, but it makes a defining statement in the 2021 CX-30 Turbo subcompact crossover. This very likable SUV crossover debuted just a year ago as a callout to the brand’s drive toward premium — premium vehicles and premium dealership experiences.

The campaign focused on the refined touch points of vehicle interiors and fine-edge engineering under the skin. With, of course, the Mazda-infused love of driving.

For 2021, the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder builds on the standard 186-hp, 2.5-liter non-turbo engine. Mazda says the turbo engine has a peak 250 horsepower when feeding the engine premium fuel or 227-hp with 87-octane junk food. Peak torque comes on strong with 320 foot-pounds at 2,500 rpm with premium fuel or 310 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000 rpm on 87 octane.

Industry sources say to expect a CX-30 midcycle freshening in 2023.

Interior of the Mazda CX-30

Inside, the CX-30 environment is lean, dark, and determined.

Sizewise, the CX-30 slots between the subcompact CX-3 — which goes away after this year — and the compact CX-5. The CX-30 is marketed toward young drivers and couples starting a family. But its quiet and smartly designed interior will appeal to all ages.

Competitors include the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Venue, Jeep Compass, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and Nissan Rogue Sport.

Mazda CX-30 Pricing

Sold in four trim levels for the standard 2.5-liter model and three choices for the 2.5 Turbo, all with a six-speed automatic transmission. The non-turbo models are front- or optional all-wheel drive. The Turbo models include AWD.

Starting prices for non-turbo models range from $23,335 to $29,875, including the $1,175 freight charge from Salamanca, Mexico. Add $1,400 for AWD.

For those who enjoy the zoom of driving a Mazda, the move up to the Turbo from a 2.5 Premium is just $1,350. The 2.5T has starting prices of $31,225, $33,625 and $35,225 for base, Premium and Premium Plus, today’s tester.

With four options, the top-line CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD tester was $36,220, which seemed fully priced for a subcompact vehicle. But it is a showcase of advanced technologies in a crossover that doesn’t seem as small as a subcompact and is more premium in its interior presence than some in this segment.

Options on the tester included Soul Red crystal metallic paint, $595; all-weather floor mats, $125; cargo cover $150; and stainless-steel rear bumper guard. But I would have happily added another $295 for wireless phone charging. For any new vehicle costing more than $35K that simple electronic aid should be included in the standard equipment.

The Premium Plus elements include content of the Premium model, such as the heads-up windshield driving display, adaptive (turning) headlights, 12-speaker Bose audio, LED headlights and taillights, heated steering wheel, leather-trimmed upholstery, Mazda Navigation (with 3-year Traffic and Travel Link Trial), paddle shifters, a power liftgate and satellite radio.

Premium Plus adds an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror, Traffic Jam Assist, parking sensors front and rear, 360-deree view monitor, Smart City Brake Support-Reverse and rear cross-traffic braking.

Find special pricing offers here.

 

Interior detail in the door panel of the Mazda CX-30

The interior has layers of depth in the interior design.

CX-30 Turbo Fuel Economy

I’d opt for the thoroughbred (premium) fuel, even though fuel economy isn’t what you might expect of a subcompact SUV, though the turbo CX-30 has standard all-wheel drive. The official ratings are 22 mpg city, 30 highway and 25 mpg combined. In a week’s test, my driving brought an average of 19 to 22 mpg around town and up to 34.6 mpg for highway driving, which might have risen a bit higher on a longer commute.

Commuters could expect nearly 400 miles of driving range from the 12-gallon fuel tank.

Gearshift console in the CX-30

The six-speed automatic gives quick shifts and keeps the engine in the power band.

Mazda CX-30 Turbo Performance

With a curb weight of 3,505 pounds, the CX-30 Turbo has good power to weight. And it brings the eagerness expected of a turbocharged Mazda. Sport mode fills the acceleration gap between fuel economy and fun.

True to Mazda’s philosophy, the CX-30’s keen drivability shows the harmony of the hardware. With a well-engineered steel-spring suspension, the CX-30 has an appetite for apex cornering, despite a torsion-beam rear axle. A torsion beam axle is often used in small utes because it is flat and doesn’t cut into cargo space. But in nearly all other applications, the torsion-beam setup feels unforgiving and clunky. Mazda engineering vaporized such concerns and the result is a sport sedan in little-ute pajamas.

Dive into a corner and there is no upsetting heave-ho as the suspension transitions the weight. The first time you experience this unexpected performance, you’ll want to do it again. The organically smooth electric steering and reassuring grip of four-wheel-disc braking have luxury-class refinement not expected of a mainstream subcompact.

Mazda Driver-Assist Technologies

Mazda’s i-Activsense safety package almost allows Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The grouping of technologies includes radar cruise control with stop-and-go function (0 to 90 mph), lane departure warning with lane-keep assist and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

The calibrations of lane-keeping assist will not prevent the car from crossing the highways lines or Botts dots. But it does alert the driver and will guide the car back into the lane when needed. Just don’t drive without hands on the wheel.

CX-30 Safety Features

The stars shine brightly for the CX-30 in NHTSA’s crash-test ratings: It earned the government agency’s highest five-star overall rating for driver and front passenger; five stars in the side crash test for front and rear seats; and four stars for low rollover risk. Learn more at SaferCar.gov.

Standard safety features include eight air bags, electronic brake-force distribution with brake-assist, driver attention alert and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Handcrafted Finesse

There is nothing disruptive in the exterior styling, which is pleasing and balanced, though the body looks large for its wheels. The separator is inside and how Mazda expanded roominess to almost compact-class accommodations.

There is handcrafted appeal in the Premium models. The leather-trimmed upholstery is tender to the touch and beautifully stitched for a patina that will age handsomely.

CX-30 Interior Function

Inside, the environment is lean, dark and determined with slender finesse. There is subtle use of brushed chrome, soft-touch manmade materials and gloss-black or carbon trim elements. Even the plastics appear to be of the same caliber throughout — without a ragged edge.

There is an openness to the front-seat area. There are 37.8 inches of headroom, with the sunroof, but it might not be suited to all members of the big and tall club. Sightlines are good at the side mirrors. They stand on their own and aren’t attached at base of the windshield pillars, which often creates a long blockage. But the smallish back glass and wrap of the pillar are limiting to rear-corner views.

Driver controls are refreshingly simple. The slim shelf of controls for heat-AC-fan works well for aim-and-touch adjustments while keeping eyes on the road. The 8.8-inch-wide top screen gives a broad view for navigation and vehicle info. But the rearview camera image uses a smaller portion of the screen when wider would be better. And even a front view would be helpful, or at least parking alerts, to avoid poking the shark nose into whatever is ahead.

The glove-soft leather of the three-spoke steering wheel made me want to keep both hands on the wheel, which is heated in the Premium Plus.

Back Seat and Cargo Area

The subcompactness of the CX-30  is felt in the back seat, but the doors open wide to aid access or to reach a child seat. The raised bench is comfortable — for smaller adults — with lots of footroom. There is a respectable 36.3 inches of max legroom, but the tall exhaust-transmission tunnel limits three-across comfort. There are no charging ports, though a cable stretched from the USB in the front armrest box could suffice.

There’s a usable square of cargo space, 20.2 cubic feet, but fold the 60/40 seats for about 5.3 feet of length.

CX-30 cargo area

There is a functional cargo space of 20.2 cubic feet. Fold the 60/40 seats for about 5.3 feet of length.

Why Buy the Mazda CX-30 Turbo?

There is a sophisticated simplicity to the CX-30 2.5 Turbo. It is a discriminating entry that demonstrates the Mazda mantra of “why, how and what a vehicle should be.” For drivers who enjoy driving, there are intangible rewards to ownership.

A rear view of the Mazda CX-30

The Soul Red Premium Plus AWD tester was $36,220.

2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD Specifications

Body style: subcompact, 5-seat, 5-door SUV crossover

Engine: Skyactiv-G direct-injected and turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder

Power: 250-hp using premium fuel or 227-hp with 87 octane); 320 lb.-ft. torque at 2,500 rpm on premium fuel or 310 lb.-ft. torque at 2,000 rpm with 87 octane

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Fuel economy: 22/30/25 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium recommended

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: smart-key locking with push-button ignition, power sliding-glass moonroof, rearview camera, radar cruise control with stop and go, 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar  and memory presets, heated front seats, electric parking brake,  60/40 split fold-down back seat, rear privacy glass, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

Safety features include: 8 air bags, electronic brake-force distribution and brake-assist, driver attention alert and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

PRICING

Base CX-30 Turbo price: $35,225, including $1,175 freight charge. Price as tested $36,220

Options on test vehicle: cargo cover $150; all-weather floor mats $125; Soul Red metallic paint $595; and stainless-steel rear bumper cover $150

Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain

Mark Maynard