Close X
Monday, October 14, 2024
ADVT 
Auto

Mazda CX-90

Benjamin Yong Darpan, 02 Oct, 2023
  • 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 Auto ARTICLES

Lexus RZ 

Lexus RZ 

Sold in three trims in Canada (Signature, Luxury, Executive), the middle one was present at EcoRun sprayed in Eminent White Pearl paint and sitting on 20-inch black and machined finish wheels. Since no ICE is present to cool, nor a "frunk" in place, the lightweight aluminum hood is positioned low, creating a sportier look and, as a bonus, improves passenger visibility. 

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Willys 4xe

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Willys 4xe

Zero emissions and off-roading are usually mutually exclusive, but not if Jeep has anything to say about it. Cue the 2023 Wrangler Willys 4xe, an extra-rugged variant of the PHEV honouring Willys-Overland Motors that manufactured World War II and later military vehicles. And as if the special Electric Blue detailing isn't eye-catching enough, the optional bright Punk'n orange exterior colour should be.

Honda Accord Hybrid

Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid emerges 70 millimetres longer and more athletic-looking than the outgoing version, showcasing the brand's contemporary design ethos that has the four-door somewhat taking after the modern Civic. Retaining the fastback profile, the hood is stretched out, and the sedan appears to sit lower, while smoked headlight housings, dark 19-inch alloys, and near-full-length LED tail lamp bar add to the newfound sportiness. 

5 new eco-friendly vehicles from AJAC Eco-Run 2023 

5 new eco-friendly vehicles from AJAC Eco-Run 2023 

The navigation system is equally intelligent, and route planning accounts for current energy reserves, traffic, topography, temperature and even how busy a station is in real time to calculate whether a proposed destination is realistic. Leather upholstery is standard, and there's a decent amount of storage space — sometimes a rarity in the segment. 

2023 Toyota GR Corolla A new hot hatch is born

2023 Toyota GR Corolla A new hot hatch is born

The first-ever 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is definitely not the same Corolla of choice for sensible grandparents worldwide. A product of the Japanese brand's Gazoo Racing performance division, this rally-inspired hatchback instead embodies several decades of racing heritage and is designed to be every bit as capable on the track as it is in the city.

2023 Lexus IS 500 Return of the V8

2023 Lexus IS 500 Return of the V8

No longer called IS F, the 500 is the first product to fall under the new F SPORT Performance line. The 5.0-litre engine is essentially an updated version of the unit last offered seven years ago, now sending 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque to the rear axle, representing a massive improvement over the previous 416 and 371, respectively.

PrevNext