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Acura MDX Type S Review

by | Sep 25, 2023 | 0 comments

Acura MDX Type S Review

As Acura’s flagship, the 2024 MDX Type S is race-engineered for high performance with standard Super Handling all-wheel drive

The 2024 Acura MDX Type S with a marina background

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S is sold in two trim levels, starting at $69,345 and $74,695 for the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance, today’s tester. (Photos by Mark Maynard or as credited)

Table of Contents

Type S Finesse
20 Years of Acura MDX
2024 Acura MDX Pricing
MDX Type S Assets
MDX Type S Powertrain
Interior Function
9 Cool Things
What’s It Like To Drive?
Back Seats and Cargo
Why Buy the 2024 Acura MDX Type S?
Specifications 

BY MARK MAYNARD

The new Acura MDX Type S is a brand shaper. For those who ponder the point of Honda’s luxury division, Acura is making a statement for technology and performance with its first Type S performance treatment for the midsize MDX SUV.

Sportiness and performance have always been the Acura mantra, but differentiation is more difficult now as many mainstream vehicles have easy supplier access to higher-performance technologies. TV ads of a car or an SUV barnstorming along city streets or sliding along an off-road trail are just so ho-hum.

It was time for a brand makeover in 2022 when Acura brought out “its most radical transformation” of the MDX since the launch of the first-generation model 20 years ago. Acura says it is a quantum leap forward with a bold exterior design and sophisticated new interior. With its role as flagship, Acura specially engineered the MDX Type S for high performance with standard Super Handling all-wheel drive.

The Type S top display screen turns red in Sport mode

The red mist of Sport mode in the top display screen.

Type S Finesse

Acura leverages engineering influence from its halo supercar, the NSX. Though the hybrid electric NSX was taken out of production last year, Acura gave it a sendoff with a limited run of 350 Type S models, each starting at about $172,000. However, according to Automotive News, the NSX might return in 2026 as an electric variant. Acura says, however, that a third-generation is not in development.

Today, the Type S performance treatment also has been applied to the Integra Type S compact hatchback ($51,000), and the TLX Type S midsize sport sedan ($57,745). The only other model in the brand’s four-vehicle lineup without the Type S option is the RDX compact SUV.

Acura will add a fifth vehicle to its lineup early next year with the battery-electric 2024 ZDX and 500-hp ZDX Type S. The ZDX is the brand’s first step as it shifts to become an all-electric brand by 2040, Acura says. ZDX Details are here.

The upcoming Acura ZDX electric crossover

2024 Acura ZDX Type S reveal during the mid-August Monterey Car Week 2023. (Acura)

And learn about Acura’s other future vehicles here.

20 Years of MDX

The fourth-generation 2024 Acura MDX follows the evolutionary footsteps of the first-gen model of 2001-2006, followed by the second-gen of 2007-2013, and the third from 2014-2022. The current model had a complete redesign and re-engineering for 2022.

The Acura MDX and the Honda Pilot share a platform, but their missions separate at birth. The Pilot is the mainstream family SUV with more off-roading credentials; the MDX is the luxury choice emphasizing tech and performance.

Acura refers to the MDX as “the best-selling, 3-row luxury SUV of all time,” though Lexus and BMW might object with their currently higher-selling SUVs, the Lexus RX and BMW X5. Other midsize luxury SUVs include the Audi Q7 and Q8, BMW X5, Genesis GV80, Infiniti QX60, and Lincoln Aviator.

But the MDX is Acura’s top-selling model, narrowly outselling the smaller RDX SUV.

The Acura MDX dual cockpit dashboard layout

The dual-cockpit dashboard is also engaging for the passenger.

2024 Acura MDX Pricing

Sold in two trim levels, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S starts at $69,345 and the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance, today’s tester, starts at $74,695. Retail pricing includes the $1,195 freight charge from East Liberty, Ohio, and 2 years or 24,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance.

My tester came to $75,295, including options for Liquid Carbon metallic paint ($600); Acura logo pattern LED lighting (from the side mirror) $188; and illuminated door sill trim for $459.

Standard MDX Type S features are substantial, including keyless entry with push-button ignition, panoramic moonroof with tilt and slide, acoustic laminate windshield and front side glass, 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit gauge information, and a 12.3-inch HD dual-content center touchpad digital display. The long list of features is below in the specifications.

The Advance package adds Acura’s first massaging front seats; Milano leather in a curvilinear quilting pattern; an option for the new Azurite Blue interior color; and a 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system.

New paint colors include a deep Fathom Blue Pearl and Phantom Violet Pearl, a deep purple. Both colors are just a $600 option. There also is the Type S exclusive hue of Tiger Eye Pearl (gold).

Choosing Liquid Carbon paint also adds the choice of a red interior with black and silver accents and gray stylized wood trim. The red is a gorgeous blue-red and is liberally applied throughout the cabin.

Pricing for the standard MDX with 3.5-liter V-6 ranges from about $50,000 for front-wheel drive to $65,000 with Super Handling AWD.

Check here for current Acura MDX pricing. And find special Acura pricing offers here.

The front door panel with bottle storage

Storage with style.

MDX Type S Assets

Acura’s “Precision Crafted Performance” tagline becomes more apparent with the MDX Type S treatment and the Advance package.

For the added $10,000 above the standard MDX, here are some of the Type S performance enhancements:

  • A new front fascia with a more aggressive-looking front spoiler, functional side air inlets, and an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, which also increases airflow to the engine bay;
  • A more aggressively styled rear fascia with four large round exhaust outlets;
  • Gloss black wheel arches and lower body trim;
  • Brembo four-piston front calipers with 14.3-inch ventilated discs. Non-Brembo rear braking is weighty with solid 13-inch discs;
  • First use of a double-wishbone front suspension.

9 Cool Things About MDX

Acura’s attention to detail reinforces pride of ownership for spending $75,000. Here are some features I liked:

  • Door-lock sensors in front and rear doors. I appreciated this simple addition every time I opened the side doors and could lock the door without using the key fob or stepping forward to the front door sensor.
  • Milano leather-trimmed upholstery. It is impressively stitched and precisely installed throughout the cabin.
  • Dual LED lights in the upper tailgate, plus an overhead cargo light;

    Convenient tailgate closer switch, a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.

    Convenient tailgate closer switch, a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.

  • Numerous USB charging ports. Acura gives us the new USB-C fast-charge ports with a few of the older USB-A style for those of us still with an iPhone lightning cable.
  • Large capacity side door storage, fits big and tall bottles;
  • Camera activation switch, in the end of the turn signal stalk;
  • Grab handles above each door, with jacket hooks in the second-row handles;
  • Convenient tailgate closer switch on the side of cargo area, packaged with a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.
  • U.S. built, designed, and engineered.

MDX Safety Technologies

Among the MDX safety credentials are eight air bags, and Agile Handling Assist with traction and stability controls.

Also standard are the driving-assist technologies of Acura Watch. Among those technologies are:

  • Adaptive cruise control;
  • Collision mitigation braking;
  • Forward collision warning;
  • Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist;
  • Road-departure mitigation;
  • Traffic-jam assist;
  • Auto high-beam assist;
  • Traffic sign recognition.

Calibration of the Level 2 hands-on-the-wheel driver assistance gives good lane centering. The guidance is reasonably consistent without having alert meltdowns in low-light levels or other traffic variables that can cancel the system.

I especially rely on traffic sign recognition, which shows in the gauge array or the head-up windshield display.

The self-sealing 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires.

Self-sealing 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires.

MDX Type S Powertrain

Unique to the MDX S-Type is its turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6. The Type S twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter helps spool up 355 horsepower and 354 foot-pounds of torque from 1,400-5,000 rpm. (The standard issue MDX V-6 has 290 horsepower and a fuel-sparing 267 lb.ft. of torque at a high 4,700 rpm.)

Other credentials for the Type S engine include:

  • Reinforced engine block with six-bolt main caps for durability and rigidity;
  • Forged crankshaft and connecting rods;
  • A fully square 86mm bore and stroke.
  • Increased cooling. Small subradiators behind both front inner fenders flank the turbo intercooler below the main radiator.
The 355 hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6.

The 355 hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6.

Transmission, Suspension, and SH-AWD

Also beefed up is the 10-speed automatic transmission. It is tuned for quicker downshifts and faster upshifts in Sport-plus mode.

Acura’s fourth-generation Super Handling All Wheel Drive is improved with expanded torque vectoring for cornering control. In normal driving, 70 percent of engine power is sent to the rear axle, with up to a 100 percent split left to right.

Its air suspension with automatic load leveling and active dampers is unique to the MDX Type S. The electronic system will lower for passenger entry and exit. And, in Sport mode, the suspension lowers 15mm (a little more than a half inch), and for snow or off-road travel, the body rises by 50mm (almost 2 inches).

Acura gave its big SUV a significant presence with 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires. The self-sealing ContiSeal tires are a first for Acura, which gives a better ride quality than run flats. There is enough sidewall height to the 275/40 tires that curb scrapes to the Berlina Black alloy wheels can be avoided, plus the camera system gives a curb view.

A low angle view of the rear MDX showing the undercarriage and dual exhaust system

A quad exhaust salute to Type S power.

Type S Fuel Economy

Official fuel-economy ratings are 17 mpg city, 21 highway, and 19 mpg combined, using the recommended premium fuel. Most of my week’s driving returned an average mpg of 18.6, dipping into the 17s when exercising Sport mode. The 18.5-gallon tank gives a wide cruising radius, but fill-ups can be painful with my city’s current $6-plus-a-gallon 91 octane.

The long and wide center console in the MDX

The front console has a creative design for the wireless charging pad, a quasi-phone slot, a pop-up module for the USB ports, and the “True Touchpad Interface.”

What’s It Like To Drive 

The MDX Type S is not a howling wolf, nor is it a namby-pamby. Its slightly elevated exhaust voice will be acceptable to most enthusiasts.

Big brakes, big tires, all-wheel drive, and luxurious appointments raise the MDX Type S curb weight to 4,788 pounds, the heaviest of all MDX trim levels. Yet, the Type S powertrain shrugs off the weight and delivers a fit and controllable experience. Floor the accelerator in Sport mode, and the V-6 takes a big gulp and powers to 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.5 to 6 seconds, according to online reports. But the force is more appreciable from about 45 to 65 mph when the engine is solidly in its torque band.

It is a refined driving experience all around. The brakes have absolute stopping force without grab and pitch. The steering wheel glides smoothly through the hand and never feels heavy-handed. Laminated windshield and side glass help provide a traffic-calmed interior.

At 16.5 feet long, the MDX looks big at the curb but drives smaller. Those big 21-inch Continental tires help boost the turning circle to a wide 40.5 feet. Inexplicably, however, the MDX curls easily into cramped parking spaces.

Performance modes of Normal or Comfort are capable purveyors of power — until you discover Sport mode. It cranks up the attitude, and the quad exhaust clears its throat to a nicely machined bellow.

The drive-mode system of Lift, Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport-plus can modify such elements as throttle response, steering weight, and suspension firmness. I used Comfort or Normal on the Interstate and Sport for everything else.

Sightlines are open across the hood and out the back glass. Broad side mirrors can get in the way while turning but don’t create major blind spots.

The second row 3 seat bench

A flat floor and 38.5 inches of max legroom.

MDX Interior Function

Take away the Acura “A” on the steering wheel, and you’d be stumped to guess this is a Honda product. The cabin has quality materials with meticulous fit, but it is not overly dressed for family duty.

The MDX feels larger than a “midsize” SUV and more of a “large-midsize,” particularly with the open cabin and 50/50 third-row seats.

I especially like the dual-cockpit layout, which gives the impression of a command center. The three-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel has a secure leather-wrapped fit in the hands. Robust metal-trimmed pedals and driver’s footrest send a message of performance.

The front seats have broad elbow room and tall headroom of 38.5 inches — with a panoramic sunroof. Especially enjoyable are the 16-way power sport seats (heated and ventilated seats) with power lumbar. Tall adults can dial in a comfortable position with the power seat-bottom thigh extenders and adjustable side bolsters. There also is a nine-way massage function with choices of “Wave,” “Shiatsu,” and “Awake.”

Both MDX trim levels are well packaged at this price point with the expected conveniences and driver-assist technologies. However, a cargo cover is not included, but there is a luxury-priced roller cover for $321. With all the smash-and-grab stories, a roller cargo cover is almost a safety feature.

The flat bottom steering wheel

The MDX Type S command center.

Information Overload

The 12.3-inch-wide infotainment screen has a 60/40 split for dual feeds and the surround-view camera system with a rear washer. But there also is some information overload. The dashboard layout is very noisy with numbers, graphics, screens, knobs, and dials. It is the antithesis of the minimalist Tesla Model X instrument panel with its 17-inch tablet touchscreen.

A Tesla Model X driver area is a minimalist design

Compare the “noise” of the MDX Type S dashboard with the minimalist Tesla Model X treatment with just a 17-inch tablet touchscreen.

The wide driver gauge display is busy with numbers, as are the many functions on the steering wheel. Many cabin controls are tightly grouped in the center module of the instrument panel. The tight space requires smallish buttons and switches, which can take eyes from the road to adjust. There are, however, a separate audio volume knob and rocker switch to advance channels.

And while that infotainment display looks like a touchscreen, it’s not — no matter how many times I reached to tap an icon. Access instead is via a small “True Touchpad Interface” pad on the center console. It just takes finger movements to scroll among the features, but it takes time to adapt to how it works. A robust wrist brace helps the transition, but I’d rather have a touchscreen.

50/50 folding third-row seats.

50/50 folding third-row seats.

MDX Back Seats and Cargo Space

There is no shortage of back-seat features, but squeezing a third row into a five-seat SUV is a shuffle compromise of back-seat space. Passengers in the second row have a flat floor for three-across occasional seating and 38.5 inches of max legroom. There are a few inches of fore-aft slide to help with more legroom in the third row. And the seatbacks recline a few inches, but the seat bottoms are short on adult thigh support.

Electronic climate controls include temperature, fan speed, and vent direction. Below are two charging USB ports, a 12-volt plug, and a household outlet.

Use the “hidden” storage well to corral grocery bags or dump wet or muddy sports gear.

The “hidden” storage.

Access to the third row is by a manual tip-and-slide function. For kids getting out of that space, a button on the second-row seatback springs the seat forward. Third-row legroom is tight at 29.1 inches, but there are charging USBs at both seats and a cup/box holder.

Functionally, the third row folds flat for broad cargo space, and there is deep basement storage with a reversible lid with a hard plastic underside; Acura calls that “Hidden Cargo Storage.”

MDX cargo area with third row folded

The third row folds flat.

Cargo entry width is 48 inches by 29 inches in height. Fold the third row for 47 inches in length, or fold both rows for about 6 ½ feet of board and ladder length.

Why Buy the 2024 Acura MDX Type S?

Acura’s Type S engineering creates a durable and sustainable performance level. It is not of the extreme power and performance of such competitors as the Audi SQ7, BMW M60i, or the Mercedes-AMG GLE. All these models start at about $90,000 and are pushing 500- to 600-horsepower.

As enthusiasts, we all like big horsepower, but the $15,000 price difference for the MDX Type S buys a lot of gasoline and a generous family vacation. And the MDX Type S is still an accommodating road-trip cruiser without such a firm ride that it becomes monotonous after a few hours.

And when considering the long-term maintenance and repair costs of an Acura vs. a BMW or Audi, the MDX is the clear winner. Acura does provide a new-vehicle warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles bumper to bumper, with an Acura maintenance program of 2 years or 24,000 miles.

A hot-rod SUV with seven seats is almost an oxymoron, but Acura must maintain seating for family versatility — with the Type S edge. But could Acura find success with a five-seat version? Or even a four-seat “executive” package, removing the third row to add more second-row legroom?

Acura’s interior finesse and race engineering to modify and reinforce the MDX S Type are a proud statement.

Another rear view

2024 Acura MDX Type S Advance Specifications

Body style: large-midsize, 3-row, 7-seat SUV with Super Handling AWD

Engine: 355-hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6; 354 lb.-ft. torque from 1,400-5,000 rpm

Transmission: 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters; Integrated Dynamics System drive modes of Normal, Comfort, Economy, Sport, and Sport-plus

Fuel economy: 17/21/19 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium unleaded fuel recommended

Max towing capacity: 5,000 pounds with AWD

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.5 seconds

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 16.3 to 39.1 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.5/41.6 inches

2nd-row head/leg room: 38.1/38.5 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 36.2/29.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 198.4/113.8 inches

Width/height: 78.7/67.1 inches

Curb weight: 4,788 pounds

Turning circle: 40.5 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: keyless entry with push-button ignition, panoramic moonroof with tilt and slide, acoustic laminate windshield and front side glass, heated front seats, electric parking brake, 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit driver information, 12.3-inch HD dual-content center touchpad digital display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Cabin Talk (speaker system), Cabin Control smartphone app for climate and audio control, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, 50/50 split 3rd-row bench, hidden cargo storage with reversible lid;

Type S Package: Adaptive air suspension, Acura navigation with real-time traffic routing, rear cross-traffic monitor, front and rear parking sensors, second-row side-window sunshades, leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated power side mirrors with reverse tilt-down, LED fog lights, ebony headliner, stainless-steel trimmed sport pedals, wireless phone charging pad, Iconic Drive ambient LED cabin lighting (27 colors) along the doors, first-row footwell, instrument panel, console, and door pocket;

Advance package includes: surround-view camera system with rear camera washer, 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system, 16-way power front sport seats with 9-way massage, 10.5-inch head-up display, perforated Milano premium leather-trimmed sport seats with contrast stitching and piping, stylized wood trim (dark gray in the tester), heated steering wheel, power lift tailgate with hands-free access and walk-away close, roof rails, heated second-row seats;

Safety features include: 8 air bags; Agile Handling Assist with traction and stability controls; hill-start assist;

Acura Watch features: Adaptive cruise control; collision mitigation braking; forward collision warning; lane-departure warning; lane-keeping assist; road-departure mitigation; traffic-jam assist; auto high-beam assist.

SUSPENSION COMPONENTS

Suspension: Adaptive air suspension with auto-leveling; double-wishbone front, rear multilink; 30.5mm solid front stabilizer bar, 21.7mm rear bar

Steering: Belt-driven variable-ratio electric power assist; 40.5-foot turning circle

Braking: Brembo 4-piston front calipers with ventilated 14.3-inch front discs, solid 13-inch rear discs

Tires-Wheels: 275/40 R21 Continental CrossContact RX ContiSeal high-performance all-season self-sealing tires; Berlina Black alloy wheels with machined face

PRICING

Base price: $74,695, including $1,195 freight charge; price as tested $75,295

Options on test vehicle: Liquid Carbon metallic paint $600; Acura Logo pattern LED lighting (from side mirror) $188; illuminated door sill trim $459

Where assembled: East Liberty, Ohio

Warranties: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; Acura maintenance program 2-years/24,000-miles; 6-years/50,000-miles powertrain

Toyota RAV4 Prime Review

by | Aug 17, 2023 | 0 comments

Toyota RAV4 Prime Review

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a filling serving of meat and potatoes, just not prime rib

A side view of a Blueprint Blue 2023 RAV4 Prime

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime has an electric driving range of 42 to 44 miles and a total driving range up to 600 miles. Today’s tester came to $52,227. (Photos courtesy of Toyota USA)

Table of Contents

Small Plug-In SUV Competitors
RAV4 Pricing
Performance and Powertrain
RAV4 PHEV or Gas-Electric Hybrid?
Ride and Handling
Interior Function
Safety Features and Technologies
Why Buy the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

What the Toyota RAV4 Prime lacks in refinement, it makes up for it with horsepower and its 42 to 44 miles of battery electric driving range. But such plug-in efficiency comes at a price.

I considered a new plug-in hybrid to replace my 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with 135,000 miles. I liked the idea of a plug-in because most of the driving for me and the girlfriend-wife is around town. I have a 240-volt Level 2 EV home charger, and there is an appeal to having a full “tank” every morning.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime was a strong contender, and after a test drive, its 302 horsepower was a selling point. But after some research and cost analysis, I decided that I could sacrifice a few battery miles for a more refined interior and more comfortable ride.

Front seats

Sightlines are open at the side mirrors.

Small SUV Plug-In Competitors

Including the Toyota RAV4 Prime, there are currently six mainstream small SUVs that have plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options:

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T, 32 miles of electric range, starting at $42,530;

2023 Ford Escape PHEV, 37 miles of electric range, $42,640 (including a $645 acquisition fee);

2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV, 33 miles of electric range; $39,000 to $46,000;

2023 Kia Sportage PHEV, 34 miles of electric range; $40,000 to $45,000;

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, 38 miles electric range; $40,000 to $50,000;

My preference of the lot is the 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV. I liked its rational and unexaggerated styling and its interior presence of premium materials and construction.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Pricing

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime has starting prices of $44,425 to $48,310, including AWD. But the top-line XSE AWD tester model topped out at $52,227, including the $1,350 freight charge from Obu, Aichi, Japan.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Limited “as built” came to $46,820, including some cargo area extras and carpeted floor mats, and the $1,335 freight charge from Ulsan, South Korea (Tucson gas versions, however, are built in Alabama.

My thumbnail notes came down to this:

  • $52,000 RAV4 buys 44 miles of battery driving or $1,159.09 per mile of range;
  • $47,000 Tucson buys 33 miles of battery driving or $1,468.75 per mile of range
A vertical design to the LED running lights.

A vertical design to the LED running lights.

For the $5,000 price difference between the two PHEVs, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime has the cost-per-mile advantage of $309.66 for the 11-mile range difference. But the $5,000 difference in starting prices buys a lot of gasoline, and the Hyundai Tucson has a more rewarding presence for the money.

(The Toyota RAV4 Prime does not qualify for the federal tax credit in 2023 because its final assembly is not in North America. Some state incentives for PHEVs range from $1,000 to $6,500, but with many qualifiers. Check here for details.)

Find current Toyota RAV4 pricing and offers here.

RAV4 Prime engine bay

The 302-hp gasoline-electric powertrain in the RAV4 Prime.

RAV4 Prime Powertrain

The gasoline-electric powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine, electric motors front and rear (for all-wheel drive), and a lithium-ion battery pack.

Only the new-for-2023 RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition still has a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, 244.8 volts. The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid Limited and Hybrid XSE have 259-volt lithium-ion cells.

The 18.1-kWh battery pack in the RAV4 Prime has an official battery-electric driving range of 42 to 44 miles. However, expect the battery-driving range to be less with more highway driving and closer to the 42-44 miles around town. A 6.6 kWh onboard charger is standard with Prime.

After a full charge at home, the onboard computer indicated 47 miles of potential EV range and 413 miles of combined gas and electric range. A full charge the second night brought 44 miles of EV range.

Toyota says it will take 2.5 hours to fully recharge on a 240-volt outlet. Charging times on a 120-volt household outlet would take about 12 hours (overnight).

The continuously variable transmission has performance modes of Sport, Eco, Normal, EV, HV, Auto EV/HV, Charge, and Trail. (The RAV4 Prime can be partially charged when the engine is running.)

The 2023 RAV4 Prime earns an EPA combined rating of 94 MPGe, or 38 mpg gasoline only, combined city/highway.

A view of the steering wheel and center stack of cabin controls

Driver controls are mostly just a finger’s reach away, with knobs for audio and climate control.

PHEV or Gas-Electric Hybrid?

The Toyota RAV4 Prime is an efficient tool for family duty, but it becomes less efficient for vacation trips when taking the time to charge is inconvenient. A standard gasoline-electric hybrid makes a better all-around choice. For example, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has peak mileage ratings of 41 mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 mpg combined; it has a full range of 580 miles on the recommended unleaded fuel. That mileage compares to 27/35/30 mpg for the gasoline RAV4.

Warranty coverage for the RAV4 Prime’s hybrid battery  is for 10 years or 150,000 miles, and EV drive components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Ride and Handling

Black wheel and all-season, 19 inch tires

The RAV4 Prime XSE has 19-inch all-season tires and alloy wheels.

The ride quality of the RAV4 Prime feels somewhat coarse, tall, and almost tippy, not in cornering but in how the suspension must manage the curb weight of 4,300 pounds. Though heavy, the RAV4 Prime does not communicate the impression of being solidly built.

Acceleration uptake is smooth and measured. And brake pedal feel is smooth and reassuring. The steering force, too, is smooth but without any feedback. And there is noticeable wind noise at speed on the highway.

RAV4 Interior Function

Sightlines are open at the side mirrors. And driver controls are mostly just a finger’s reach away, with knobs for audio volume, tuning, and adjusting climate control. The access switch for the heated steering wheel is out of the way, below and left of the steering wheel.

There is reasonably tall front headroom of 37.7 inches with the sunroof. An asset for shorter drivers is the long reach of seat adjustment to the steering wheel. I have never been able to move a driver’s seat as far forward as in this RAV4.

Toyota loads up the RAV4 Prime XSE with a gratuitous list of standard features. The complete list is in the specs box below, but among the notable examples are:

  • Smart key locking with push-button ignition;
  • Rearview camera system with overhead 360 view;
  • 10-inch color head-up (windshield) display;
  • Heated and ventilated front seats;
  • Power adjustable driver seat;
  • Wireless charging pad;
  • 4 charging USBs;
  • Locking glovebox big enough to hold all the owner’s manuals;
  • Softex upholstery (which I prefer to Toyota leather) with red accents.

Back-seat passengers might comment about the odd hump in the second-row floor at the base of the front console. If the doors could open just a few degrees wider, it would benefit elbow room when loading toddlers into child seats, but there is adult head and leg room of 39.5 and 37.8 inches.

Cargo space is multifunctional with a 60/40 split reclining fold-flat rear seat and 33.5 cubic feet behind the second row, stacked to the headliner. The cargo opening is wide at 44 inches and tall at 33 inches; fold the second-row seatback for 6 feet in length.

The cargo area also has a height-adjustable deck board, side net, and tonneau cover.

An LED headlight

The Prime XSE has LED projector low- and high-beam headlights.

RAV4 Safety Technologies

The RAV4 might be compact, but it has a full complement of safety features and driver-assist technologies. Its basic safety features include eight air bags, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, hill-start and downhill-assist controls, and active cornering assist.

Toyota’s Star Safety System adds enhanced stability and traction controls, brake-force distribution, brake assist, and Smart Stop technology;

Tying together those features is Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. This suite of systems integrates a precollision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and road sign assist.

The open cargo area

Cargo space is multifunctional with a fold-flat rear seat.

Why Buy the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime?

The Toyota RAV4 is an enduring model, debuting in North America in 1995 for the 1996 model year. The compact ute was born as a utility vehicle and continues with a utility foundation. After 28 years, The RAV4 is now in its fifth generation. Toyota is working to upgrade its dutiful RAV with more refined interior elements, just not all at once.

To date, the only plug-in hybrid vehicles with technology to charge the hybrid battery while driving are the 2024 Mazda CX-90 and two models of Volvo Recharge SUVs.

Until more manufacturers enhance the plug-ins with on-road charging ability, a plug-in is at its most efficient around town.

The Toyota RAV4 isn’t expected to have its next complete redesign until 2027, so the current generation is still full of life. If maximum range on battery power is your goal, then the Toyota RAV4 Prime is the obvious choice.

A rear view of the RAV

The Toyota RAV4 has a full complement of safety features and driver-assist technologies. Standard safety features include eight air bags, Toyota’s Star Safety System, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-seat, 5-door SUV with electronic on-demand all-wheel drive

Engine: 2.5-Liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder with dual direct- and port-injection

Power: 302 combined net horsepower; 177 hp at 6,000 rpm; 165 lb.-ft. 3,600 rpm

Electric motor: power output (front/rear) 179/53 hp front, 134/40 kW rear; torque 199/89 lb.-ft. (front/rear)

Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic with sequential shift mode simulating 8 speeds; performance modes of Sport, Eco, Normal, EV, HV, Auto EV/HV, Charge, and Trail

Emission rating: Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle

Battery: 355.2-volt lithium-ion

Charging: 2.5 hours with 6.6kw onboard charger on a 240-volt Level 2 charger

EPA-estimated driving range: 42-44 miles

Fuel economy: 38 mpg combined

Fuel economy equivalent: 94 mpg-e; 38 mpg combined, gas engine only

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.7 seconds (per Toyota)

BY THE NUMBERS

Max towing capacity: 2,500 pounds, with standard trailer-sway control

Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons

Cargo space: 33.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 37.7/41 inches

Rear head/leg room: 39.5/37.8 inches

Length/wheelbase: 180.9/105.9 inches

Curb weight: 4,300 pounds

Turning circle: 37.4 feet

FEATURES

Standard Prime equipment includes: power tilt-slide moonroof with one-touch open-close, electric parking brake with brake hold, lockable glove compartment, center armrest console with covered storage compartment, two front cup holders, sun visors with sliding extensions and illuminated vanity mirrors, 5 USB ports (one for media, two front and rear USB charging ports; 60/40 split reclining fold-flat rear seat with center armrest and cup holders, height-adjustable power liftgate with jam protection, height-adjustable rear cargo area deck board, cargo area side net, side and rear privacy glass, cargo area tonneau cover;

Exterior highlights: vertical LED front accent lights, dual chrome-tipped exhaust, low-profile black roof rails, black-painted (folded) heated power outside mirrors with turn signal and blind-spot warning indicators, LED projector low- and beams and auto on/off, color-keyed outside door handles with touch-sensor lock-unlock feature on front doors; one 12-volt 120-watt auxiliary power outlet in front instrument panel storage tray and one 12-volt, 120-watt auxiliary power outlet in cargo area;

Prime XSE Interior Features

Smart key locking and push-button start; backup camera with gridlines; leather-trimmed tilt-telescopic 3-spoke steering wheel with silver accents and redundant controls for audio, hands-free phone, voice-command, Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Lane Trace Assist; power liftgate and remote illuminated entry; 6-speaker 10.5-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, satellite radio with 3-month trial subscription; sunglass console with map lights, and Safety Connect button; dual zone automatic climate control system with dust and pollen filter and rear-seat vents; black fabric-trimmed headliner; red-accented interior, including stitching on dash, doors and seat, and black anti-slip in-dash storage trays with blue ambient lighting; SofTex-trimmed seats with red stitching and fabric seat inserts; heated front seats; 8-way power-adjustable front driver’s seat with lumbar support; 4-way adjustable front passenger seat with seatback pocket; heated front seats; soft-touch dash, door and armrests with stitched dash, door and center console accents, and anti-slip interior door grip; LED front-seat reading lights, dome light and cargo area light; rear liftgate window defogger, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver;

Hybrid-Specific Features: black diamond-patterned bar front grille; active grille shutters; silver-painted front lower spoiler; aerodynamic underbody panels with vortex generators; front and rear wheel spats; integrated rear spoiler; red-painted shock absorbers; blue ambient lighting for in-dash shelves, center console cup holders and in front footwells; acoustic noise-reducing front side windows;

RAV4 Safety Features

Standard 8 air bags; blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert; hill start assist and downhill assist control; active cornering assist;

Star Safety System includes: Enhanced stability and traction controls, brake-force distribution, brake assist, and Smart Stop Technology;

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, includes: precollision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, road sign assist.

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: Power-assisted ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes; 12.9-inch front rotors; 12.4-inch rear rotors;

Steering: Electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion; 37.4-foot turning circle;

Suspension: Independent MacPherson front struts with stabilizer bar; multi-link rear with stabilizer bar;

Tires-Wheels (XSE): All-season 235/55 19-inch; 5-spoke alloy wheels

2023 RAV4 PRIME XSE PRICING

Base price: $48,310, including $1,350 freight charge; price as tested $52,227

Options on test vehicle: Premium audio package $1,620; Weather package $375; Premium package $2,960; Roof rack cross bars $315; carpet floor mags and cargo mat $269; Door sill protector $199; Rear bumper applique $69; Mudguards $69; Wheel locks $65

Where assembled: Obu, Aichi, Japan

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles; roadside assistance 2-years/unlimited mileage; free scheduled maintenance 2-years/25,000-miles; Hybrid battery 10-years/150,000-miles; EV drive components 8-years/100,000-miles

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.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Review

by | Jun 28, 2023 | 0 comments

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Review

Stand back and give the Electrified GV70 a good look. Its fashion-forward styling has the look of wealth and richness. And it is.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 plugged in at a charging station

Electrified Genesis models are now sold in 23 states, and the brand says all new Genesis models will be electric starting in 2025, and the entire lineup will be all-electric by 2030. (Photos courtesy GenesisUSA or as credited)

Table of Contents

What is Genesis?
EV Competitors to GV70
Genesis GV70 Pricing
Genesis Warranties
Interior Features
Function with Finesse
Electrified GV70 Performance
Charging and Driving Range
A Mobile Power Source
Advanced Safety Technologies
Why Buy the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 epitomizes the trendsetting “quiet luxury” movement in the automotive segment.

According to a recent money report by MSN.com, the so-called quiet luxury is defined by expensive materials in muted tones. Also known as “stealth wealth,” the trend is for “the complete lack of logos and anything too conspicuous,” said Thomaï Serdari, professor of marketing and director of the fashion and luxury program at NYU’s Stern School of Business.

The understated Genesis Electrified GV70 is one such example. This midsize, five-seat battery-electric SUV crossover has no green or blue “EV” badging. It does not have the snub-nose grille-less face or an awkwardly raised body intended to disguise the down-low, flat skateboard electric powertrain.

Look around the interior, and the appearance is of a “normal” car. The GV70 has no gimmicky displays and wide screens for a faux panorama. There is a wide screen atop the instrument panel, but it simply navigates the menus for phone, performance, electric performance, and charging needs.

Among the interior materials in the Electrified G70 are woven wool, tricot mesh (manufactured) fabric, and suede. A two-tone Glacier White interior option has copper-tone piping and quilted Nappa leather upholstery.

Stand back and give the GV70 a good look. Its fashion-forward styling has the look of wealth and richness. And it is.

A fashionable interior with smart placement of controls.

A fashionable interior with smart placement of controls.

What is Genesis?

Genesis Motors is the luxury division of South Korea-based Hyundai and Kia Motors. Genesis launched in the United States in late 2016 with the G80 and G90 midsize and large sedans. The brand has since brought out the Genesis G70 sport sedan, followed by the brand’s first SUV, the GV80. An Electrified G80 sedan and the battery-electric GV60 compact SUV came online in 2021. And the Electrified GV70 went on sale in 2022, making it the brand’s third electric model.

Electrified Genesis models are now sold in 23 states, and the brand says all new Genesis models will be electric starting in 2025. By 2030, Genesis plans to have an all-electric lineup.

The tally of states selling Genesis EVs to date is Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Many Genesis dealerships are paired with Hyundai dealerships. However, the brand has opened five standalone dealerships in the U.S. Genesis Santa Monica is the latest addition and the first in California.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is the first Genesis built outside South Korea. In 2022, Hyundai Motors announced plans to begin EV production in Montgomery, Ala. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembles the Hyundai Elantra compact sedan, Santa Fe midsize SUV, Tucson compact SUV, the Santa Cruz pickup and now the Genesis Electrified GV70. The $300 million project is expected to add 200 jobs.

In a related project, supplier Hyundai Mobis is building a $205 million 400-job EV battery module plant in Montgomery, expected to be complete in 2025. It will provide batteries to the Hyundai auto assembly plant and the Kia auto plant in Georgia.

A line of blue ambient lighting sets off the dash and center console.

A line of ambient lighting sets off the dash and center console.

EV Competitors to the GV70

Comparably equipped, all-wheel drive, luxury-class all-electric SUVs that compete with the Genesis Electrified GV70:

Audi Q8 e-tron, 285-mile range: $85,995;

BMW iX xDrive50, 307-mile range: $89,300;

Cadillac LYRIQ, 314-mile range: $79,985;

Mercedes-Benz EQB, 245-mile range: $69,550;

Tesla Model Y, 279-mile range: $51,380, including a $250 order fee.

Note: Retail pricing includes the vehicle freight charge but no EV incentives or rebates.

The dash-top 14.5-inch multimedia screen.

The dash-top 14.5-inch multimedia screen.

2023 Genesis GV70 Pricing

The Genesis GV70 is available in gasoline and battery-electric (Electrified) models. The styling is near identical for each, with a few subtle separators. The electrified GV70 can be recognized by its solid G-Matrix grille pattern, with the concealed EV charging port on the right corner and no exhaust pipes. The electric GV70 also has a stiffer structure and more soundproofing than the gasoline version, which also is quiet on the road.

The gasoline GV70 has two all-wheel-drive trim levels, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V-6. The GV70 2.5T starts at $44,275 and can range to $54,425 with special paint and the Advanced package ($8,600). The GV70 3.5T ranges in price from $56,375 to $67,775.

Neither model includes a cargo cover or net for such a luxury price. Those accessories would add $250. A reversible cargo area mat is $160, which might be helpful for a bit more soundproofing.

Alta White is the only no-cost paint color. The other 12 color choices range in cost from $575 to $1,500.

2023 Electrified GV70 Pricing

The Genesis Electrified GV70 has trim levels of Advanced and Prestige. Pricing starts at $66,975, including the $1,125 freight charge from Montgomery, Ala. The Prestige test vehicle was $75,525 with the Prestige package ($6,800), Makalu Gray Matte paint ($1,500), and a two-tone Glacier White interior with copper piping and quilted Nappa leather upholstery.

The Boost button at the base of he steering wheel for a jolt of passing power.

The Boost button for a jolt of passing power.

Among the Prestige features are a leatherette-wrapped upper instrument panel, microfiber suede headliner, head-up display, a 3D instrument cluster, premium audio system, active noise control-road, heated second-row seats and steering wheel, and rear side-window sunshades.

Despite being built in America, the Electrified GV70 still sources battery materials from outside the U.S., which makes it ineligible for a federal tax rebate. However, it does receive the tax credit when leased, and Genesis passes that on to consumers with more attractive lease pricing. And owners can still benefit from HOV access.

Check current GV70 pricing and offers here.

Precise fitment and lines throughout the interior. (Mark Maynard photo)

Precise fitment and lines throughout the interior. (Mark Maynard photo)

Electrify America & Genesis

Working with the public charging company Electrify America, owners of the Electrified GV70 receive three years of free 30-minute charging sessions from the vehicle purchase date. EA has a range of nationwide fast-charging stations, which can be located via the Genesis Connected Services and Electrify America mobile apps.

Genesis Warranties

Genesis takes care of its customers with a wealth of warranty coverages.

The “chauffeur” power seat switch on the side of the front passenger seat can move and change the seatback angle of an unoccupied front passenger seat. (Mark Maynard photo)

The “chauffeur” seat switch.

The basic new-vehicle warranty includes:

  • 5 years or 60,000 miles bumper to bumper;
  • 3 years or 36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance;
  • 3 years or 36,000 miles free service valet;
  • 3 years of free map updates;
  • 10 years or 100,000 miles powertrain;
  • 10 years or 100,000 miles electric vehicle system (or in California, 10 years or 150,000 miles).

For on-road assistance, called Connected Care, uses a cellular network connection for Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and SOS Emergency Assistance. The system also includes a monthly vehicle health report, maintenance, and diagnostic alerts.

Concierge and Service Valet

Service Valet and Concierge Services are among the warranty coverages, and both are money to an owner. For service, Genesis will handle vehicle pickup, deliver a replacement Genesis, and return your vehicle when service is required. The pickup and return can be anywhere the owner chooses, within reason. Learn more about the Service Valet at https://owners.genesis.com/us/en/resources/vehicle-health/genesis-service-valet-simplifies-maintenance.html

The free three-year subscription also provides online or app scheduling of service appointments. The Electrified GV70 will also give owners a screen alert when it is time for service and then connect to schedule an appointment with the preferred dealership.

The split screen camera shows overhead views.

The all-around view of the camera system. (Mark Maynard photo)

Concierge Services

Many new vehicle owners develop relationships with the dealership service manager, but Genesis encourages owner involvement through its concierge services. For example, if the nearest Genesis dealer is out of your way, the concierge can arrange an at-home or multiple test drives. And if you loved the Genesis you tested, the concierge will help plan a visit to the nearest dealership to finalize the sale. Here is how to get started.

Interior Features

I quickly felt comfortable in the driver’s seat. Sightlines are open across the hood and out the rear window, wide and somewhat deep. The front side mirrors are on the body, not at the windshield pillars, which opens cornering views.

A split-screen camera view gives an overhead view, forward and reverse. Animated graphics show the GV70 moving and how close it is to other vehicles or objects.

The 12-way adjustable driver’s seat should be considered a safety feature for how it conforms to the driver. Driver’s seat height is an asset for short drivers such as me. However, I did not need the full height, while in most other cars, I instinctively raise the seat to its highest position. The front passenger seat has eight-way power.

Another choice to dial in what should be your ideal position is Smart Posture Care. The system analyzes the driver’s posture. Once seated, the driver enters their height and weight on the posture screen. The system then adjusts the driver’s seat, steering wheel, mirrors, and head-up display to the optimal position.

Small-item storage areas range from large door panels, with a bottle slot, to a locking glove box and a fuzzy-lined armrest storage box with a 12-volt socket.

I especially liked the charging module that looks like a repurposed smoker’s package. The flip-top slot is wide enough for most smartphones and has a charging USB and media port.

The open engine-motor bay

Genesis engineers provide easy checkpoints for fluids. (Mark Maynard photos)

The top box in the engine bay holds a small kit for the spare tire inflator and other items.

The engine-top storage box — with a light.

Crafting Interior Calm

The Electrified GV70 is one of the better soundproofed vehicles I have tested, yet there is noticeable wind noise at highway speeds. And that is with the body’s low 0.29 coefficient of drag.

Otherwise, ride noise is subdued. Some of the work toward creating interior calm is from the Active Noise Control-Road system. It electronically measures and analyzes road noises and simultaneously creates sound waves at opposite frequencies.

Navigation is standard with a 14.5-inch HD screen. It is a cloud-based system for optimized routing, voice recognition, and over-the-air updates.

The shift console is driver-oriented, with a shifter dial in the rearward position near the armrest. Just ahead is a stylized dial with a knurled surround. It is nicely differentiated from the shift dial and gives access to the infotainment systems. It is handy to check such elements as the EV range, the navigation map, audio and media selections, and Genesis Connected Services for vehicle diagnostics and maintenance requirements.

GV70 Function with Finesse

The quality of interior construction is Tier 1 luxury. Panel alignment is intensely accurate. And even the double-stitched seam on the upper dash and doors matches perfectly with a dual bead of chrome trim just below.

Genesis provides a handy negative post to jump the charging battery.

Genesis provides a handy negative post to jump the charging battery. (Mark Maynard photo)

A charcoal microsuede headliner adds intrigue. And at night, a striking blue line of ambient lighting along the dash and center console has a dramatic effect.

Interior controls of the Electrified G70 are fully electronic, but Genesis engineering makes all those controls easy to figure out and use. Because there are many alternate controls, you can use as much or as little of the technologies as you wish.

For example, the ellipse of electronic controls for heat and AC has large dials to adjust the temperature. And the touch-sensitive controls, such as for seat heat or ventilation, have large displays that activate with a light touch, helping to keep eyes on the road.

Owners can also use a fingerprint reader to unlock and start the GV70. While using the start-stop button will suffice, the fingerprint reader’s benefit is that it is tied to the driver’s profile; it automatically loads the driver’s preferences when authenticated. This is particularly helpful for folks who share their vehicle with someone else.

An owner’s smartphone can also function as a digital key to lock and unlock the front doors and then use the fingerprint reader to start the car.

Back seat space has Reclining seatbacks and back-seat legroom of 36.6 inches.

Reclining seatbacks and back-seat legroom of 36.6 inches. (Mark Maynard photo)

Back Seat and Cargo Space

Adults in the back seat of the Electrified GV70 should be reasonably comfortable with 36.6 inches of legroom and a slightly short seat cushion. The doors open to near right angles, and the transmission tunnel is low for more center-seat foot space.

There are numerous Genesis perks, such as reclining seatbacks, electronic climate controls, lights, jacket and drycleaning hooks, and a broad armrest. Somewhat unusual is a front passenger seat “chauffeur” power switch to move the seat forward for more back seat legroom.

Cargo space of 28.7 to 56.5 cubic feet is unchanged from the gasoline G70. But because of the battery platform, the interior height of 27 1/2 inches might be short for tall cargo. Fold the 60/40 seatbacks for 6 feet in length.

There are many conveniences in the cargo area, including large side lights, robust seatback release levers, and a household 120-volt outlet.

The open cargo space of the GV70

Fold the rear seatbacks for 6 feet in length. (Mark Maynard photo)

Electrified GV70 Performance

Two motors of equal 160 kilowatt power produce 429 horsepower. But a Boost Mode gives a 10-second overboost to 483-hp. That boost feature is in addition to Sport mode, giving a thrilling jolt to acceleration.

A one-speed transmission simulates eight shift points. Acceleration can feel quite swift, launching to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, per Genesis. Factor that force with a hefty curb weight of 5,038 pounds, which includes the battery weight of 1,063 pounds

I especially value the Intelligent Pedal (i-Pedal), which allows the driver to accelerate, decelerate, and slow to a stop using just the accelerator pedal. Not all EV makers use this type of system, believing the driver should be responsible for acceleration and stopping.

A low center of gravity from the battery placement lets the Electrified GV70 feel planted. Though there is confident handling, there is little driver feedback through the steering wheel.

Max towing of 3,500 pounds is the same for gas or electric GV70s.

The concealed charge door in the G-Matrix grille of the Genesis GV70

The concealed charge door in the G-Matrix grille.

Charging and Driving Range

The estimated range for a fully charged Electrified GV70 is up to 236 miles. Charging at home, I saw fully charged ranges of 248 to 256 miles.

Helping to stretch the driving range, a Disconnector Actuator System automatically connects or disconnects the motor and drive shaft depending on driving conditions. The system switches between two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. In daily driving, the power is rear-wheel drive. The system runs in all-wheel drive during stronger acceleration and in Sport mode.

Smart Regenerative Braking factors driving habits, real-time navigation, and road conditions to send kinetic energy back to the battery pack more effectively.

Adding 350kW rapid charging capability enables the 77.4 kWh battery to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 18 minutes. Under optimal conditions, rapid charging can add more than 60 miles in 5 minutes.

The 400V/800V multi-rapid charging system raises the voltage supplied by typical chargers from 400V to 800V, Genesis says. And owners can use both 400V and 800V charging infrastructure without needing an additional converter. The 800V charging can be an asset when traveling, but most carmakers say to minimize the use of DC fast charging.

A Mobile Power Source

As a high-capacity electric source, the Electrified GV70 is part survival tool and charger on wheels. Vehicle to Load Charging, known as V2L, gives a 3.6kW charge. That charge is higher than the power supply in the average home when tapped through a household 120-volt outlet. V2L will not power an entire house but can power necessities during a power outage, tailgate parties, or outdoor projects.

V2L also can be used to charge a stranded EV. It will charge slowly, Genesis says, but it is helpful when the battery charge is very low or in an emergency.

The GV70 has ventilated disc brakes all around, with 14.2-inch front discs and four-piston calipers.

Ventilated disc brakes all around, with 14.2-inch front discs and four-piston calipers.

GV70 Advanced Safety Technologies

The Electrified GV70 has all the advanced driver-assist technologies for hands-on-the-wheel semi-autonomous driving.

Driver-assist technologies include: parking distance warning, front and rear; parking collision avoidance assist rear; blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist; lane keeping assist and lane following assist; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian-cyclist detection and junction turning.

Full safety features are in the specs box below.

Highway Drive Assist

Keep your hands on the wheel for Highway Driving Assist. It’s the same system found in Hyundai and Kia models.

The sophisticated array of advanced technologies allows Level 2 assisted driving. In my testing, the system kept the GV70 accurately centered in the lane without crossing the lines or the highway Botts dots.

These driver-assist systems take time for the uninitiated to find their comfort level. The support is an all-seeing set of eyes that is of value in the crammed daily commuting traffic, especially in narrow construction areas. I now activate steering assist in HDA as a distraction-avoidance safeguard.

Why Buy the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70?

As a standard bearer of stealth wealth, the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 tester is a defining statement of luxury for less. Genesis represents conscionable wealth.

I recommend leasing, not owning, a battery-electric vehicle. With so many electronics and digital displays, I do not trust they will remain trouble-free over 10 years. After a 3-year lease, the owner will get a fresh and fully updated new vehicle.

It is the brand’s comprehensive warranty coverage that sweetens the deal. The Genesis Service Valet saves the owner time and takes the stress from getting a vehicle to the dealership and back home.

With 250 miles of electric driving range, an owner should feel confident for about 90 percent of daily driving. A home Level 2 charger is essential for convenience and well worth the installation costs. For vacation travel, the Electrified GV70 owner and owners of EVs with even higher ranges will still meet at the fast charger while on the road.

A rear three quarter view of the electrified GV70

The electrified GV70 is so far sold only in 23 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Specifications

Body style: midsize 5-seat AWD electric SUV crossover

Motors: 160 kW front and rear

Total system power: 429 hp with 10-second “Boost Mode” to 483 hp; 516 lb.-ft torque

Battery: 77.4 kWh lithium-ion polymer; 697 volts; with battery heating system

Battery weight: 1,063.3 pounds

Transmission: 8-speed automatic 1-speed reduction gear

EPA-estimated driving range: 236 miles

Fuel economy equivalent: 98/83/91 MPGe city/highway/combined

Top speed: 146 mph

0-62 mph acceleration: 4.2 seconds

Max towing capacity: 3,500 pounds with braked trailer

CHARGE TIMES

Onboard ultra-fast charging capacity up to 800 volts, 350 kW

120-volt household outlet: About 68 hours;

AC Level II, 240-volt: About 7 hours from 10 percent to 100 percent

50kW Rapid Charging: 73 minutes from 10 to 80 percent

250kW Rapid Charging: 18 minutes from 10 to 80 percent

BY THE NUMBERS

Coefficient of drag: 0.29 cd

Cargo space: 28.7 to 56.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.6*/41.3 inches *without sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 38.6/36.6 inches

Front shoulder/hip room: 59.1/56.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 185.6/ 113.2 inches

Width/height: 75.2*/64.2 inches *excluding side mirrors

Curb weight: 5,038 pounds

Turning circle: 37.8 feet

FEATURES

Prestige package equipment includes: Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, 14-way power driver seat with Ergo Motion and 4-way power lumbar and cushion extension, 12-way power passenger seat with 4-way power lumbar and cushion extension, integrated memory system with Smart Posture Care, heated and ventilated front seats, 15-speaker Lexicon premium audio system with Quantum Logic Surround sound, second-row sunshades;

Standard GV70 features include: Proximity key with push-button start, remote start, panoramic sunroof, power-folding side mirrors with Genesis logo, smart cruise control with stop & go, front wireless charging pad, a rearview camera with parking guidelines, surround-view monitor with blind-spot view, remote smart parking assist, head-up display, power hands-free liftgate, 60/40 split-folding back seat, cargo cover, carpeted floor mats, 20-inch wheels, electric suspension with road preview;

Safety features include: 8 air bags, brake assist, hill-start assist;

Driver-assist technologies include: parking distance warning, front and rear; rear parking collision avoidance assist; blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist; lane keeping assist and lane following assist; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian-cyclist detection and junction turning.

PRICING

Electrified GV70 Prestige base price: $66,975, including $1,125 freight charge; price as tested $75,525

Options on test vehicle: Makalu Gray matte paint $1,500

Where assembled: Montgomery, Ala.

Warranties: 5-years/60,000-miles bumper to bumper; 10-years/100,000-miles powertrain; 10-years/100,000-miles electric vehicle system (10-years/150,000-miles in California)

Genesis Experience: 3-years/36,000-miles free scheduled maintenance and service valet; 3 years map updates, and free connected services

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum Review

by | Apr 18, 2023 | 0 comments

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum Review

The fifth-generation 2023 Nissan Pathfinder feels built for the long haul. Nothing about it seemed budget constrained or cheap. Many of its design features are helping hands for parents.

A side view of a red Nissan Pathfinder

The fifth-generation Nissan Pathfinder follows in the tracks of the nameplate’s first U.S. hardbody model from 1986. (Photos courtesy of NissanUSA or as credited)

Table of Contents

Pathfinder Through the Years
7 Cool Features
Oddities and Observations
What’s New for 2023?
2023 Nissan Pathfinder Pricing
How Is It To Drive?
Brakes, Steering, Suspension
Back Seats and Cargo Space
Why Buy the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Nissan Pathfinder has traveled many paths since it debuted as a “hardbody” in 1986.

The first-generation Pathfinder was introduced for model year 1987 as a two-door body-on-frame SUV. Built on a ladder-type frame, Pathfinder shared styling and most components with the Nissan Hardbody pickup.

Pathfinder’s optional 4WD system was considered unique at the time because it could be engaged electronically — “shift on the fly” — while the vehicle was moving. All versions of Pathfinder were available in two-wheel drive or manually engaged 4WD configurations. Base models had modest power from a 106-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional 143-hp 3.0-liter V-6.

Nissan’s new SUV was in response to the growing competition: Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Bronco II, Jeep Cherokee, and import SUVs such as the Toyota 4Runner, Honda Passport, and the 1989 to 2004 Isuzu MU.

Today, there are more three-row SUV competitors than ever. Among the choices for 2023 are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Kia Telluride, Mitsubishi Outlander, Toyota Highlander, and VW Atlas.

The front seat area of the 2023 nissanp pathfinder

A roomy driver area with headroom of 41.1 inches with the panoramic moonroof.

Pathfinder Through the Years

Nissan tended dutifully over the years to keep Pathfinder current and competitive. It was ahead of its time for some features, but not all variants endured the tests of owners.

It was October 1989 when Nissan debuted the four-door Pathfinder. Then, in late 1995, the second-generation Pathfinder was introduced with revised styling. There was another mild redesign in 2002.

A completely redesigned, third-generation Pathfinder debuted in late 2004 for the 2005 model year.

Model year 2013 brought a critical shift for the fourth-generation Pathfinder. The body-on-frame, truck-based SUV was replaced with a unibody design and sleek new (aerodynamic) exterior styling. It used the same platform as the Infiniti QX60, Altima, Maxima, Murano, and Quest minivan.

Nissan launched a short-lived gasoline-electric hybrid Pathfinder in 2014. Its powertrain was a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a compact lithium-ion battery. The hybrid model, however, was a one-year-only offering. Owners complained they could not get gas mileage close to the advertised 25 to 28 mpg.

The fifth-generation Pathfinder was unveiled in early February 2021 as a 2022 model, skipping the 2021 model year.

Nissan brought back more emphasis on the current Pathfinder as a family adventure vehicle. The more squared-off styling — and what might be the best-looking rear end of any new SUV — ever-so-slightly goes back to the roots of Pathfinder.

There is an active forum for Pathfinder owners at PathfinderTalk.com. Owners — some of whom are lifelong Nissan faithful — post their problems, remedies, and praise.

the view from the third row of the pathfinder panoramic moonroof

The panoramic moonroof is standard on the Platinum.

7 Features Owners Will Value

Nissan engineers and designers sweat the small details and provide many enhancements and innovations. Some of these emerge only after time on the road.

Auto on-off LED headlights linked to windshield wiper use. In California and other states, it is the law to use headlights with wipers in the rain. With Nissan’s auto function, drivers will know they are always compliant.

Capacitive touch lock-unlock rear side doors. Such a simple convenience, but many others save some budget and omit that access to the rear side doors. Walking up to the back doors with an armful of kid or groceries, the driver gains quick access with a touch of the door handle. Too often, back-door entry requires first touching a front-door handle.

“Bridge” storage. Nissan makes the most of the front center console with a deep bin and “bridge” under-storage space. The pass-through bridge is also convenient for the passenger. Most other shift consoles are solid, which wastes the extra storage potential.

The pathfinder's 'bridge' storage in the lower center console

‘Bridge’ storage below and above the shift console, with a phone-audio e-bin.

Storage shelf above the glove compartment. The slim shelf will fit any generation iPhone, Nissan says. It is also mostly out of sight and sunshine.

2nd-row pushbutton seat release. Loading kids into the third row is so simple any kid can do it. The pushbutton release at the door-side seat base of the captain’s chair boosts the chair up and forward for third-row access.

the second row captain's chairs

The Captain’s Chairs package with removable center console.

54.1-liter luggage box. The undercargo floor storage compartment (1.9 cubic feet) has a hinged lid and dividers to separate the good-sized compartments. It’s part of the Cargo package, $345, and worth it.

10-way power passenger seat for Pathfinder SL and Platinum. Some imports don’t even provide height adjustment for the passenger — and nobody likes being low in the front seat.

6,000-pound towing capacity. Base models can pull a trailer up to 3,500 pounds, but the Rock Creek and Platinum models are uprated to a 3-ton capacity.

the understorage of the pathfinder

The underfloor storage box is made more functional with the section dividers from the optional Cargo package. (Mark Maynard photo)

 Oddities and Observations

Transmission unexpectedly went into Park while sitting at a stoplight. I don’t believe I bumped the electronic shifter’s Park button atop the shifter grip, yet the Pathfinder transmission went into Park at a stoplight near my home. I didn’t discover the issue until the light turned green. The problem never occurred again in my test week.

Tilt-down mirror confused. When engaging reverse, the passenger side mirror is supposed to tilt down to show the curb and then go back into position when Drive or Park are engaged. The tilt-down can work on either left or right-side mirrors. The driver must select the left or right mirror control on the door panel. I tried both sides, and each time, the side mirror tilted up, not down.

Slow response to infotainment screen. Making a selection on the infotainment screen would take a second or two to activate. Of course, I’d tap the selection again, thinking I’d missed the icon. Nope, it’s just slow.

No wireless Android Auto. While Apple CarPlay has wireless connectivity, Android users must use the access cable.

ProPILOT Assist vagueness. This Level 2 driver-assist system was once at the vanguard of semi-autonomous driving. But the advanced technologies that go into Level 2 have been honed by others to be more accurate, especially in lane centering. In my experience, the system allowed the Pathfinder to drift wide in cornering, crossing the white lines, and then giving me an alert. It also seemed the Pathfinder was closer to the lane marking on the right than the left. Still, ProPILOT is welcome backup in heavy commuting, but  keep both hands on the wheel.

The pathfinder has an around view camera system

The Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.

What’s New for 2023 Pathfinder?

Nissan brought back the off-roading ready Pathfinder Rock Creek for 2023. Among its adventuring credentials are standard Intelligent 4WD, an off-road-tuned suspension, and a 5/8-inch suspension lift.

Using premium fuel gives the 3.5-liter V-6 engine a power boost of 11 horsepower and 11 foot pounds of torque. A Nissan spokesman explained that the bump in power for Pathfinder Rock Creek is by engine software programming to take advantage of the extra octane in premium fuel. “The engine computer senses the extra octane and adjusts accordingly. The other Pathfinder models don’t get this programming, so they won’t get a horsepower boost like the Rock Creek.”

I suggested that Nissan consider adding that engine-software programming as an option. How much would you pay for 11 more hp?

Other Rock Creek upgrades include:

  • 18-inch beadlock-style wheels with all-terrain tires;
  • Tubular roof rack with a 220-pound capacity;
  • Tow hitch receiver and harness with 6,000-pound maximum towing capability;
  • LED fog lights;
  • Intelligent Around View Monitor with Off-Road Mode. A front-view camera shows the terrain ahead, with a side view, all of which help driver’s place the tires where there is solid ground;
  • Orange interior stitching and second-row captain’s chairs.
  • Rock Creek pricing starts at $44,355.
The 12-inch digital 'dashboard' gauge array

The 12-inch digital dashboard.

Other 2023 Pathfinder Upgrades

  1. The upper-range SL trim levels now have a standard wireless phone charging pad;
  2. Pathfinder Platinum has a new captain’s chairs package, which adds a removable console between the second-row chairs. And it can be easily removed if needed for step-through access to the third row.
  3. 10-way power passenger seat for Pathfinder SL and Platinum. Hooray. Not all Japanese makes provide such adjustability for the front passenger.
The pathfinder third row

Third-row seating is kid class, but access is easy with pushbutton release of the second row.

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Pricing

There are five trim levels for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder in front- or four-wheel drive. All trims have a 284-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Starting prices below include the $1,335 freight charge from Smyrna, Tenn.

Pathfinder S: $36,535 2WD, $38,435 4WD (add $1,900 for 4WD)

Key S trim features include:

  • Nissan Safety Shield 360, driver-assist system;
  • Tri-zone automatic temperature control;
  • Apple CarPlay connectivity;
  • EZ FLEX seating system featuring Latch And Glide and 3rd-row 60/40-split fold-flat reclining bench seat.

Pathfinder SV: $39,355 2WD, $41,255 4WD

Key SV features include:

  • Heated front seats;
  • ProPILOT driver-assist system;
  • Intelligent Lane Intervention;
  • Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention;
  • 10-way power driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar;
  • Remote Engine Start System with Intelligent Climate Control.

Pathfinder SL: $44,855

Key SL features include:

  • Four-wheel drive;
  • Leather-trimmed seats in first and second rows;
  • NissanConnect 9-inch color infotainment touch-screen display;
  • Intelligent Around View Monitor;
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay integration;
  • Wireless charger;
  • ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link.

Pathfinder Platinum: $49,505 2WD, $51,405 4WD

Key Platinum features include:

  • 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels;
  • Heated and ventilated front seats;
  • Panoramic moonroof;
  • Head-up windshield display;
  • Bose premium audio system with 13 speakers, including dual woofers;
  • Tow-hitch receiver with 4-pin wiring harness.

Check here for current pricing and special offers.

The Pathfinder Platinum tester was $55,035 with seven options, including special paint for $790 and $550 for the Captain’s Chairs package, with the removable center console. But the most impressive (usable) option to me is the Cargo package, $345. Among its assets are heavy-duty rubber cargo floor and seatback protectors.

All of the tester’s options and pricing are in the specifications chart below.

Safety Features and Technologies

Every Pathfinder has the Nissan Safety Shield 360. This collection of technologies includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Automatic Braking.

And all versions of Pathfinder have 10 air bags, but there is an added driver-seat front-center bag on the Platinum.

Other safety features are in the specs chart below.

Dial-up performance modes from Sand to Sport.

Dial-up performance modes from Sand to Sport.

How Is It To Drive?

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder feels big and wide, though it has about the same size footprint as its competition. Nissan gave Pathfinder all the power and suspension elements to be driver-engaging, but the result is more fundamental than fun-demental. Most users wouldn’t pile in the family and head out to tear up some back roads.

The turning circle with 20-inch tires is a manageable 38.7 feet, with driver assists from the around-view camera when parking.

The sole powertrain is a 284-hp, direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 with a nine-speed automatic. Hallelujah, Nissan ditched the continuously variable automatic for this nine-speed, and few will be looking back. Shift points are well-timed but sluggish to downshift when going up hills. Overall acceleration, however, was quick enough that I didn’t feel the need to engage Sport mode. (However, I do use Sport when plugging along in the heavy commute. The quicker Sport kick is helpful to ward off those cretins who try to dive into the too-small space between you and the car ahead.)

With 259 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm, there is adequate force to handle the Pathfinder Platinum’s 4,625 pounds, not including occupants.

Fuel economy estimates of 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway might be hopeful; 87 octane is recommended for all models but Rock Creek. Around town in my week of driving, my average fuel economy hovered between 11 to 16 mpg. I worked up to 22 mpg on more extended highway driving, meeting the EPA estimate.

The pathfinder's v6 engine

The 284-hp 3.5-liter V-6 for all Pathfinder trim levels.

Braking, Steering, Suspension

Pathfinder’s foundation feels robust and substantial, essential for towing and adventuring off the highway. The ride quality is comfortable but gives an unexpected sport-tuned jolt over rough road. Inputs to steering and braking are refined and steady.

But there is noticeable ambient cabin noise at highway speeds, which I attributed to the prominent roof rail cross bars.

The 6,000-pound towing capacity for Platinum and Rock Creek requires the Class III receiver hitch, the seven-pin connector for trailer braking, and the factory-installed transmission oil cooler. The upgrade is part of the Premium Package on the SV and SL models. The SV Premium Package is $2,170, and the SL Premium Package is $2,990.

Braking: Four-wheel disc brakes have vented rotors front and rear with 13.8-inch rotors front and 13-inch rotors rear.

Steering: electric power assist with vehicle-speed assist,

Suspension: four-wheel independent with front struts and rear multi-link setup; solid stabilizer bar front, hollow rear. Twin tube, dual-flow path shock absorbers;

Tires-Wheels: 255/50 20-inch all-season tires on machined aluminum-alloy wheels with a dark metallic gray finish. A temporary spare stows underbody at the cargo area;

The Pathfinder Platinum is well dressed in 20-inch all-season tires on machined aluminum-alloy wheels with a dark metallic gray finish.

The Pathfinder Platinum is well dressed in 20-inch all-season tires on aluminum-alloy wheels.

Back Seats and Cargo Space

Raised back seat height in the Pathfinder is very kid friendly for open views and helpful to ward off motion

electronic back seat ac and vent controls

Electronic climate controls for the second row.

queasiness. Also beneficial are ceiling vents just above each side window, with reading lights. There also is a lot of seatback recline, another parenting asset for sleeping youngsters.

A flat floor in the second and third rows is the great enabler for comfortable foot space, uncompromised by a transmission tunnel. Adult legroom in the second row is functional at 35.5 inches, which can be stretched a bit with a few inches of fore-aft slide.

And there is plenty of big-bottle space in the door panels.

a pair of chilld seats in the second row

Captain kids’ chairs.

Parents will appreciate the pushbutton spring release to slide forward the second-row seat for third-row access. And there’s a one-arm push to lock down the seat. As with most midsize, three-row SUVs, the way back is best for small children.

Cargo capacity ranges from grocery bag and gym bag space behind the third row (16.6 cubic feet) to family vacation capacity of 45 cu.ft. with the third row folded.

The liftgate opening is 49 inches wide, or 4 feet, 1 inch. With both rows folded, there is about 6 ½ feet in length for a wide bay of 80.5 cu.ft. Other cargo area features include two grocery bag hooks, four tie downs, lighting, and a 12-volt plug.

Cargo space behind the third row is 16.6 cubic feet

Check out the heavy-duty rubber cargo mat and seatback protector, both are part of the $345 Cargo package, and worth it. (Mark Maynard photos)

Both rows of seats are folded for big and open cargo space

Fold both back seats for 6 ½ feet-plus in length.

Why Buy the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?

The fifth-generation Nissan Pathfinder feels built for the long haul. Nothing about it seemed budget constrained or cheap. Many of its design features were helping hands for parents, at least for those who resist the “M” word for minivan. And the details of Nissan’s design and engineering will bring years of “Gee, I like that little extra.”

Pathfinder’s next midcycle freshening is planned for 2025, so there are long legs for the current model. But shop wisely for the most value.

The Platinum model has an appreciable load of standard features. However, you can step down a grade to the Pathfinder SL and add options that mimic the Platinum for a sticker of $48,190. I prefer a monotone paint scheme, saving $790. And to save another $395, stay away from optional paint colors, such as Scarlet Ember Tintcoat (a gorgeous red) or Pearl White TriCoat, for $395 each. Then save another $390 if you won’t use the (wind-noise generating) roof rail cross bars.

Add it up, and the Pathfinder SL 4WD, with leather-trimmed upholstery, saves nearly $7,000 over the Platinum. And that savings will buy a lot of gas for a driving vacation.

The good look rear end of the new pathfinder

Starting prices for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder range from $36,535 to $50,000.

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum Specifications

Body style: large-midsize, 3-row, 7-seat SUV with 4WD

Engine: 284-hp, naturally aspirated and direct-injection 3.5-liter V-6; 259 lb.-ft. torque at 4,800 rpm

Transmission: 9-speed automatic with manual shift mode paddle shifters, and electronic shift-by-wire drive selector; Intelligent 4WD with 7-position Drive and Terrain Mode

Fuel economy: 20/25/22 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane

Tow capacity: up to 6,000 pounds; class III tow hitch with harness and 4-pin prewiring; trailer-sway control

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 16.6 cubic feet behind 3rd row; 45 cu.ft. 3rd row folded; 80.5 with both rows folded

Front head/leg room: 41.1*/44.3 inches *42.3 inches w/o moonroof

2nd-row head/leg room: 39.6/35.5 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 37.8/28 inches

Length/wheelbase: 197.7/114.2 inches

Curb weight: 4,625 pounds

Turning circle: 38.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Nissan Intelligent Key with push-button ignition, Intelligent cruise control, panoramic moonroof (with one-touch power tilt-sliding glass with shade), tri-zone climate control, wireless phone charging pad, 12.3-inch gauge display, head-up driver windshield display, 9-inch color navigation-infotainment touch display, 13-speaker Bose premium audio system with subwoofer, 10-way power adjusted front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, sun visors with extenders and vanity mirrors, heated 2nd-row window seats, quilted semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery in first and second rows, power tilt-telescopic steering column, two-driver memory presets, automatic LED headlights (high and low beams), LED running lights and fog lights, body-color power-folding and heated side mirrors with reverse tilt-down, privacy glass (rear-side windows and liftgate window), silver-finish roof rails, motion-activated power liftgate, 2 12-volt DC power outlets (1 front console, 1 in cargo area);

Safety features include: 11 air bags (including for Platinum, a driver seat-mounted front-center bag), dynamic traction control, hill-start assist with hill-hold control and hill-descent control, brake-force distribution, brake assist, 4-wheel ABS; LED side mirror-mounted turn signals;

Driver-assist technologies include: ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous driver assist with Navi-link, blind-spot warning and blind-spot intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic rear braking, Intelligent forward-collision warning, Intelligent lane intervention.

PRICING

Base Platinum MSRP: $51,405, including $1,335 freight charge; price as tested $55,035

Options on test vehicle: Two-tone paint $790; captain chair’s package $550; roof-rail crossbars $390; LED fog lights $345; lighting package (without running boards $945; carpeted floor mats with captain’s chairs (4-piece set) $265; cargo package $345

Where assembled: Smyrna, Tenn.

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with 24/7 roadside assistance; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain