What’s the Difference? Mazda CX-9 vs. CX-90

In 2024, Mazda replaced the CX-9 with a brand-new model, the CX-90. Both are mid-size three-row SUVs, perfect if you appreciate plenty of seating and space. We line up the Mazda CX-9 vs. CX-90 so you can better understand their similarities and differences.

Engine Performance and Powertrains

The Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 offered engine options that reflected consumer demand at the time of their release. Mazda released its CX-9 when gas-powered engines dominated, so this SUV came with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four across all trim levels in 2023. This classic engine pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel.

Mazda satisfied demand for eco-friendly engines in 2024 by releasing standard and plug-in hybrid versions of its new CX-90. The 2025 model has a powerful turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six. Most trims get 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, but you can up that to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque if you choose one of the Turbo S trims. The plug-in hybrid’s four-cylinder engine, electric motor, and 17.8 kWh battery pack all work together for 323 horsepower. A new eight-speed transmission on both models helps smooth out gear changes.

Both the CX-9 and CX-90 have all-wheel drive as standard for enhanced traction, rounding corners, and weaving through traffic. Mazda has tweaked the chassis, moving from a transverse engine layout to a new longitudinal setup. The 90-degree shift, combined with the new Kinematic Posture Control, improves cornering stability. The latest models are also faster than the old SUVs. The CX-9 takes 7.2 seconds to reach 0 to 60 mph. The standard CX-90 takes only 6.3 seconds, and the plug-in hybrid takes just 5.9 seconds.

Exterior Design and Features

The Mazda CX-90 looks more modern than the CX-9, with smooth curves instead of sharp angles. Both SUVs are good-looking vehicles, so your preference likely comes down to personal taste. The CX-90 has a contemporary sophistication that you might like, while the CX-9 has a charm that really stands out.

The Mazda CX-90 is also a little longer, taller, and wider than the CX-9. The most noticeable difference is in wheelbase. The CX-90’s 122.8-inch wheelbase is markedly larger than the CX-9’s 115.3-inch wheelbase.

Interior, Cabin Technology, and Comfort

Increasing the dimensions gives the 2025 CX-90 141.6 cubic feet of passenger volume, eclipsing the 136 cubic feet offered by the CX-9. This makes such a difference to headroom, legroom, and shoulder space, especially for rear passengers. While the CX-9 accommodates six or seven people, you can configure the Mazda CX-90 interior for up to eight.

Cargo Volume

There’s 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the CX-90’s rear seats, slightly more than the CX-9’s 14 cubic feet. Both models let you fold down the rear rows to accommodate large suitcases, golf clubs, and other bulky items. However, only the CX-90 lets you swap the captain’s chairs for another bench, which you can fold down for an extra cargo boost.

Infotainment and Safety

Mazda has improved on the CX-9’s already solid tech foundations. It was an advanced vehicle at the time, featuring a 10.3-inch infotainment display, a standard 4.6-inch digital instrument cluster, and i-Activsense driver-assistance technologies. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and Mazda didn’t charge extra for a wireless smartphone charging pad.

While the CX-90’s standard infotainment display is slightly smaller at 10.25 inches, that’s only for the 3.3 Turbo Select trim. All other options receive a much larger 12.3-inch unit that’s easier to use and see at a glance. The digital instrument cluster is now 7 inches, the same size as the one seen on the CX-9’s highest trims. You’ll get the same i-Activsense safety tech as the CX-9, although the CX-90 gets a new rear seat alert. Mazda has also swapped out some dated dials for toggles to maintain the CX-90’s contemporary looks.

Pricing, Value, and Cost To Own

Despite its larger size and technological improvements, the 2025 Mazda CX-90’s starting MSRP of $38,045 is less than the 2023 Mazda CX-9’s original starting price of $40,125. The 2025 Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid has a starting price of $49,945.

However, vehicles depreciate rapidly after leaving the lot, so you can expect to pay a lot less for a Mazda CX-9 today. All Mazda CX-9s available now are used models, and prices will vary depending on their age, condition, trim level, and local demand. Current estimates suggest the national average price for an entry-level 2023 Mazda CX-90 is $27,164.

Fuel Economy

While the CX-9 is the least fuel-efficient option, it still bests many of its rivals, making it an excellent choice in this used-car segment. The EPA suggests the 2023 Mazda CX-9 delivers 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the 2025 Mazda CX-90 gets 24 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The 2025 CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid should travel around 26 miles on electricity before switching to gas, which greatly improves its fuel economy during short drives. Once it switches to gas, it gets around 24 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Test-Drive the Mazda CX-90 and Mazda CX-9 at John Kennedy Mazda Conshohocken Today

While the CX-90 offers the latest technology and fuel-efficient engine options, the CX-9 remains an appealing option if you’re seeking an affordable used SUV. At John Kennedy Mazda Conshohocken in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of new Mazda CX-90s and select used CX-9s. Contact us to schedule a test drive of both models and find out which one is right for you.

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