2024 Mazda CX-90 is now brand’s flagship

Mazda has always been an understated player in our market space. The Mazda CX-9 could never exude that aura that a real flagship needs. But now, they hope to turn things around with the 2024 Mazda CX-90, the biggest SUV on offer by the Japanese brand.

For starters, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 stands on a new rear-wheel-drive platform. It is large, providing room for eight passengers. Unlike the CX-9, which prioritized utility and practicality over sheer luxury, the Mazda CX-90 exudes opulence combined with Japanese aesthetics.

Of course, luxury starts with the interior—luxurious materials like Nappa leather, wood and chrome line different surfaces inside the CX-90. On the dashboard, it flaunts traditional Japanese stitching to bring it all together. The tech is not lost. A 12.3-inch screen on the dashboard works as the infotainment system, while another digital display gives vital data to the driver. Gladly, a list of tactile controls is still available for multiple functions. The complete feature list will be out closer to the launch.

The design of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 contains classic Mazda cues but in a more upscale avatar. The large curved body looks handsome in a new Artisan Red shade. You can add or delete chrome as you need. The wheel options can be as large as 21 inches.

Under this skin, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 can come with two different powertrain options, both hybrids. The first choice is Mazda’s turbocharged 3.3-litre straight-six engine combined with a small electric motor between the engine and transmission. The output from this combination is 340 hp and 500 Nm.

The PHEV e-Skyactiv powertrain is your best choice if you fancy more electrification. This uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to produce 323 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The battery is 17.8-kWh strong, giving the CX-90 the ability to drive exclusively on its juice. But we do not know for how long.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 fills in a gap in the Mazda line-up nicely. With its opulent interior, sleek looks and reliable powertrains, Mazda may be holding on to its perfect flagship here.

Keep track of the latest Mazda prices in the UAE buyer guide.