Close X
Sunday, December 1, 2024
ADVT 
Reviews

Mazda CX-90

Benjamin Yong Darpan, 02 Oct, 2023 09:59 AM
  • Mazda CX-90

Scoot over CX-9, the new Mazda flagship in town is the three-row CX-90 available in two primary partially-electrified Skyactiv flavours: a mild hybrid 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six and a 2.5-litre four-cylinder PHEV, the latter that we got to pilot.

Boasting a wide stance, long wheelbase and curvy panels to really showcase a beautiful coat of Soul Red Crystal Metallic, the big mid-size SUV plays the top dog role well. However, the stubby headlights and chunky chrome grille frame are a slight departure from conventional Mazda design and take a bit of getting used to. At the same time, the minimalistic interior is familiar and fresh and debuts a fabric dash cover connected via hanging stitches, inspired by an intricate Japanese weaving technique. 

Borrowing the MX-5's Kinematic Posture Control, the suspension and braking systems work harmoniously under spirited cornering to supress body lift. The nifty technology enhances grip and prevents unwanted occupant movement, both welcome benefits on the 100-or-so kilometres I spent in the driver's seat.

The plug-in powertrain takes advantage of a 68-kilowatt electric motor — sandwiched between the engine and eight-speed automatic transmission — and the total 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque outputted felt adequate climbing the steep inclines faced along the way at a good clip. The onboard 17.8-kilowatt-hour battery contains enough juice to travel 42 kilometres before the ICE kicks in.

In addition to an EV-exclusive setting, and depending on trim level, the CX-90 possesses Sport, Off-Road and Towing (up to 5,000 pounds) modes. Each alters vehicle dynamics to suit the chosen activity best, and is selectable using the Mi-Drive toggle switch placed in front of the shifter.

Highlights: 

MSRP: $59,950 (base)

Motor: 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder + electric motor

Horsepower: 323 (net)   

Torque (lb-ft): 369 (net)   

Gearbox: eight-speed automatic   

Layout: All-wheel drive   

Fuel economy (highway): 7.7 L/100 km (observed)

MORE Reviews ARTICLES

2013 MINI: Not Normal

2013 MINI: Not Normal
Since MINI is owned by BMW but made in England, it has the best of English old time style and solid German engineering behind it. One of those Old English features was the convertible top

2013 MINI: Not Normal

Harley Davidson Softail 2013: Customization, Chrome & Curb Appeal

Harley Davidson Softail 2013: Customization, Chrome & Curb Appeal
If you are looking to impress your friends with a motorcycle and don’t want the hassle of doing it yourself, well have I got a bike for you! Harley-Davidson’s CVO Softail Convertible is a custom ride that I am sure will get you all kinds of looks

Harley Davidson Softail 2013: Customization, Chrome & Curb Appeal

VW Jetta Diesel: One of the world’s leaders in diesel cars

VW Jetta Diesel: One of the world’s leaders in diesel cars
When it comes to getting great fuel economy out of a car, I tend to go with the traditional approach. That approach is with a diesel engine in a vehicle, and one of the world’s leaders in diesel cars is Volkswagen

VW Jetta Diesel: One of the world’s leaders in diesel cars

Dodge Dart 2013

Dodge Dart 2013
The Dart fits into the mid-sized category up against the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic, which is tough competition. My test car was the SXT model, one up from the basic model, which to my surprise was well equipped with just one option package

Dodge Dart 2013

ACURA TSX

ACURA TSX
Performance, luxury and styling all in one package is something I don’t get a ll too often in a test car. The Acura TSX offers all that plus a whole lot more, which makes this car a very popular choice for enthusiasts who need a four-door car.

ACURA TSX

Buick Encore: Luxury Crossover SUV

Buick Encore: Luxury Crossover SUV
For the past few years, Buick has been trying to shake its old image by building cars more apt to be bought by a wide variety of age groups rather than just old timers.

Buick Encore: Luxury Crossover SUV