Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, 2025 Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-90 comparison, Mazda CX-90 mid-size SUVs, Mazda CX-90 performance, Mazda CX-90 interior, Mazda CX-90 safety, Mazda CX-90 pricing
The mid-size SUV market is one of the most competitive segments in the automotive industry, and the 2025 Mazda CX-90 has entered this crowded space with an impressive combination of luxury, performance, and technology.
For consumers in search of a versatile family vehicle, the CX-90 has many qualities that make it stand out, but it also faces stiff competition from other established players like the Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Ford Bronco. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore how the 2025 Mazda CX-90 measures up to its rivals in key areas such as performance, interior comfort, safety, pricing, and value.
The Competitive Landscape of Mid-Size SUVs
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, Mid-size SUVs have long been favored for their balance of space, comfort, and capability, making them ideal for families, road trips, and even some off-road adventures. The segment has grown in popularity as automakers continue to deliver vehicles with modern technology, advanced safety features, and high performance. As we look at the competitive field for 2025, several key players stand out: the Mazda CX-90, the Kia Telluride, the Toyota Grand Highlander, and the Ford Bronco.
Each of these models brings something unique to the table. The Mazda CX-90, with its premium features and sporty handling, offers a different proposition compared to its rivals, which may be more focused on ruggedness (Ford Bronco) or value (Kia Telluride). To determine which SUV truly stands out, we need to break down the key differences and features of each contender.
Mazda CX-90 Overview
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, The 2025 Mazda CX-90 is a three-row mid-size SUV that stands as Mazda’s flagship vehicle in the segment. Mazda has carefully crafted this SUV to embody the brand’s philosophy of “Jinba Ittai” — the connection between car and driver. With its blend of driving performance, advanced technology, and luxury, the CX-90 has quickly garnered attention.
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine Options: The CX-90 offers two engine choices: a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-6 producing 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter hybrid engine delivering a combined 323 horsepower.
- Interior: High-quality materials like Nappa leather, premium wood trim, and advanced technology make the interior of the CX-90 both luxurious and functional. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard.
- Safety: Equipped with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, the CX-90 includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking as standard.
- Pricing: The starting price for the Mazda CX-90 is approximately $42,000, making it an affordable option for those seeking a premium SUV.
The CX-90 positions itself as a premium option in the mid-size SUV category, focusing on luxury and performance while keeping a relatively competitive price point.
Competitor Analysis: Mazda CX-90 vs competitors
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is one of the most popular mid-size SUVs in its class, known for its spacious interior, solid performance, and value-driven pricing. The Telluride is offered with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for most driving needs.
- Performance: While the Telluride’s V6 engine provides solid acceleration and ample towing capacity (up to 5,000 lbs), it doesn’t quite offer the same performance-focused experience as the Mazda CX-90. The Telluride is more about comfort and space, offering a smooth ride and handling.
- Interior and Technology: The Telluride’s interior is spacious, with room for up to eight passengers, making it a great option for larger families. It comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available 12.3-inch touchscreen. The materials and craftsmanship are high-quality, though not as luxurious as the CX-90.
- Pricing: The Kia Telluride is competitively priced, starting at around $36,000. This makes it one of the best values in the segment, especially considering the amount of space and technology it offers.
Toyota Grand Highlander
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a new addition to Toyota’s lineup, offering a more premium and larger version of the popular Highlander. The Grand Highlander provides an option for consumers seeking more space and refinement.
- Performance: The Grand Highlander offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an available hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined output of up to 243 horsepower. While the Grand Highlander isn’t as powerful as the Mazda CX-90’s available turbocharged inline-6, it focuses more on efficiency and practicality. The hybrid variant is especially fuel-efficient.
- Interior and Technology: Inside, the Grand Highlander offers a spacious and tech-forward interior with seating for up to eight passengers. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, available 12.3-inch screen, and a full suite of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 features.
- Pricing: The Grand Highlander’s pricing starts around $42,000, putting it in a similar range to the Mazda CX-90, though its hybrid models provide an added value proposition for those seeking better fuel efficiency.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco, while a bit of an outlier in this comparison, remains a strong contender for buyers who prioritize off-road capability alongside comfort and utility. The Bronco offers rugged performance that the CX-90 and its other competitors simply can’t match.
- Performance: The Ford Bronco offers multiple engine options, including a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 270 horsepower and a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 330 horsepower. The Bronco’s off-road capabilities are top-notch, with features like a terrain management system, locking differentials, and advanced suspension systems, making it ideal for adventurous drivers.
- Interior and Technology: The Bronco’s interior is more utilitarian than luxurious, focusing on durability and ease of cleaning for off-road adventures. The infotainment system includes Ford’s SYNC 4 with a 12-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional navigation. While not as refined as the CX-90, the Bronco’s interior is functional and well-equipped for adventure.
- Pricing: The Ford Bronco starts at around $35,000, making it an affordable option for those seeking ruggedness and off-road prowess. However, higher trims with advanced features can push the price up significantly.
Performance Comparison
Engine Options and Driving Experience
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, When it comes to engine options, the Mazda CX-90 sets itself apart with its powerful 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-6, which provides a thrilling driving experience and ample power for both highway cruising and towing. The 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque make the CX-90 one of the most powerful options in its segment.
The Kia Telluride, with its 3.8-liter V6, provides strong performance for everyday driving but lacks the refinement and sporty edge that the CX-90 offers. Similarly, the Toyota Grand Highlander, while offering solid engine options, including a hybrid variant, focuses more on efficiency than outright performance.
For buyers seeking pure driving excitement and performance, the CX-90’s engine options and dynamic handling make it the clear winner.
Interior and Comfort
Space, Materials, and Technology
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, The Mazda CX-90 impresses with its luxurious interior, with premium materials like Nappa leather, wood accents, and high-end finishes throughout. The three rows of seating are comfortable, with ample space for passengers in the first two rows. The third row, while suitable for children or shorter trips, may not be as spacious as in some competitors like the Kia Telluride.
The Kia Telluride leads in terms of passenger space, with room for up to eight passengers and a spacious cabin. It is perfect for larger families and long road trips, though the materials, while good, don’t match the luxury feel of the CX-90.
The Ford Bronco and Toyota Grand Highlander both offer spacious interiors, but the Bronco’s rugged design prioritizes utility over comfort, while the Grand Highlander offers a refined interior but with less luxurious materials than the CX-90.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Ratings and Features
All of the SUVs in this comparison come with advanced safety features, but the Mazda CX-90 offers one of the most comprehensive safety suites in its class with its i-Activsense package. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
The Kia Telluride also boasts strong safety ratings and comes standard with a full suite of driver-assist features. Similarly, the Toyota Grand Highlander includes Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which is known for its reliability.
The Ford Bronco, while offering a solid range of safety features, isn’t as focused on family-friendly features as some of the other competitors.
Pricing and Value
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, Pricing for the 2025 Mazda CX-90 starts at around $42,000, making it a competitive option for those seeking luxury and performance. The Kia Telluride is a strong contender in terms of value, starting at approximately $36,000 and offering a spacious, well-equipped interior. The Toyota Grand Highlander, priced similarly to the CX-90, offers a great hybrid option but doesn’t quite match the CX-90’s performance. The Ford Bronco, while more affordable, lacks the luxury feel and family-oriented features that some buyers may desire.
Conclusion: Which SUV Offers the Best Overall Package?
Mazda CX-90 vs competitors, The 2025 Mazda CX-90 stands out in the competitive mid-size SUV market for its impressive blend of luxury, performance, and technology. For those seeking a refined, performance-oriented SUV with a focus on driver engagement, the CX-90 is the clear winner. Its powerful engines, luxurious interior, and advanced safety features make it an attractive option for families and enthusiasts alike.
However, if you prioritize space, value, and practicality, the Kia Telluride is an excellent alternative, offering more room for passengers and a lower starting price. The Toyota Grand Highlander offers solid efficiency and a strong hybrid option, while the Ford Bronco excels in off-road capability.
Ultimately, the Mazda CX-90 is the best overall package for those seeking a well-rounded, high-performance, and luxurious mid-size SUV.
OTHER ARTICLES:
