The 2024 Mazda CX-90: A Stunning SUV with Some Frustrating Flaws
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a visually striking plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a premium interior and ample space for passengers and cargo. However, despite its attractive design and performance, the vehicle has several usability issues that can make daily driving a bit of a challenge.
Mixed Marks for Infotainment
One of the most notable aspects of the CX-90 is its large infotainment screen, which is tilted slightly toward the driver to create a cockpit-like feel. However, this screen is not a touchscreen by default—it requires the use of the center console controls. This setup frustrates some members of the MotorTrend staff, who prefer a more intuitive touch-based interface. That said, when Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is engaged, the screen becomes fully touch-enabled, which is a positive step forward. Ideally, the screen should be a full touchscreen without the need for additional features.
Other frustrations include the difficulty in changing radio stations, which often requires multiple steps unless the station is saved as a preset. The scrolling knob only navigates through presets, making it cumbersome to find new stations. Additionally, the car sometimes forgets paired devices, requiring users to connect via USB to re-pair their phones. These small but persistent issues add up over time.
There are also some unintuitive design choices, such as the temperature control, which must be pushed down rather than toggled to increase the temperature. The fuel gauge display is also placed on the right side of the gauge cluster, even though the filler is on the left side of the vehicle. Similarly, the battery gauge is on the left side of the same section, while the plug is on the right. These inconsistencies can be confusing, especially in a digital display system where customization is possible.
Frustrating Center Console
The center console of the CX-90 is shallow and lacks sufficient storage space for everyday items. The divided cover is difficult to access, especially when seated, and retrieving items from outside the vehicle becomes nearly impossible. This lack of convenience is particularly frustrating for families who rely on easy access to essentials during trips.
Windshield Wiper Service Mode
One unexpected issue arose when the windshield wipers accidentally entered service mode, locking them in a vertical position. This occurred after an accidental movement of the wiper stalk, leaving the driver stranded with no clear way to reset the wipers. After a quick search online, the solution was found on YouTube: pressing the start button twice for accessory mode and raising the wiper stalk. However, this process required multiple attempts and a restart of the vehicle to work properly.
While the service mode is designed to prevent wipers from getting stuck in snow and ice, the lack of clear instructions in the owner’s manual made the experience unnecessarily stressful. A simple explanation in the manual could have saved time and frustration.
Recalls Mounting
The CX-90 has been subject to several recalls, highlighting ongoing issues with its software and hardware. During a recent visit to the dealership, the vehicle underwent three recalls:
- A software update to fix camera display issues.
- A software update to prevent unexpected engine or electric motor shutdowns.
- A fix for power steering assist loss, involving greasing the worm gear and replacing a spring.
Additionally, the vehicle had a service bulletin addressing a groaning noise from the front end. The technician greased the rear bushings on the front lower control arms and installed dust covers to prevent contaminants from entering.
Despite these fixes, the vehicle returned with a check engine light that did not turn off, indicating another potential issue. The dealer failed to refill the washer fluid despite a warning on the dashboard, which was intentional to test their attention to detail. After a second visit, the washer fluid was refilled, and the check engine light remained off.
More on Our 2024 Mazda CX-90 Long-Term Review
- 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Yearlong Review Arrival: Feeding My Mazda Habit
- A Cold Cross-Country Trek in Our 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Gets Into Tire Trouble
- How Do Cold and Snow Affect Our 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid?
- Our 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV’s Transmission Leaves Much To Be Desired
- MotorTrend’s 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
Key Details About Our 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
- SERVICE LIFE: 9 months / 14,638 miles
- BASE/AS TESTED PRICE: $58,325 / $59,975
- OPTIONS: Trailer hitch and wiring harness ($700), Destination accessory set with cargo cover, net, crossbars and first aid kit ($625); upgraded carpet ($325)
- EPA CTY/HWY/CMB FUEL ECON; CMB RANGE: 24/27/25 mpg; 53/61/56 mpg-e; 26 miles (elec), 490 miles (blended)
- AVERAGE FUEL ECON, AVERAGE MILES/KWH: 23.8 mpg-e; 0.70 mi/kWh
- ENERGY COST PER MILE: $0.19
- MAINTENANCE AND WEAR: $197.34 (12/11: oil change, $77.34; winter tire swap, $120.00)
- DAMAGES: $900.48 (9/23: Emergency replacement tire, $385.25; 10/23: correct replacement tire, $270.46; 11/23 cosmetic repair for damaged wheel, $154.50; 12/11: replacement tire pressure sensor and materials, $99.27)
- DAYS OUT OF SERVICE/WITHOUT LOANER: 2-Feb
- DELIGHTS: Lovely interior; large infotainment screen, having a spare tire
- ANNOYANCES: Jerky transmission, refinement, stiff ride
- RECALLS: Pair of OBD II recalls: one involving transmission solenoid detection and the other for AC refrigerant detection so they may be emissions related service campaigns. Both were fixed by reprogramming computers. Three more recalls: a software update for cameras to display properly; software update to prevent engine or electric motor from shutting down with little to no warning; and a fix to prevent losing power steering assist. Service bulletin to address front end squeaking and install dust covers.
EPA blended-PHEV (charge-depleting) mode testing, with vehicles set to their default drive and brake-regeneration modes.
