Awesome review Doug! You can turn on keyless entry for all doors in the settings menu. The gear shifter will automatically go to park if you open the driver’s door, the CX90 will not roll anywhere when the door is open. A rear view mirror camera is available for the CX90, it’s an optional feature. I work at a Mazda dealer, so I do my best stay up to date on all Mazdas.
@@Fifthcell I don't understand what good a rearview mirror camera does. Could you or someone please explain it to me? All I use my rearview mirror for is checking my rear surroundings while driving down the road. When it comes to backing up, there is the backup camera plus the side mirrors. Those are more than enough for me.
Doug, I would recommend hitting up the vehicle configurator before your videos. I know you're a busy man but the Turbo S Premium Plus is the only trim level with the rear center console. The Turbo S is the only trim with 2 rear seats, all the other trims have 3 in the rear. You can also get an 8 seat config. Additionally, a digital rearview mirror is also an option you can add to all trims. I know you're busy but 5 mins on the configuratora my dude. Edit: Also the detuned Inline-6 Premium Plus has almost all the same features as the one you drove but is ~$54k and competes with the Telluride/Palisade/Atlas/etc. It has 280hp/332tq on 87. The gear selector is electronic and wont roll away. The infotainment has a setting to allow all doors to unlock or only the driver door to unlock. I'm available for quality control work remotely 😉.
You don't even need the configurator, Mazda has a page for the CX90 to compare al the specs and trim levels side by side. This is basic stuff every buyer should do, reviewers have an even bigger responsibility.
I’m surprised he didn’t do his due diligence with this review. As a lot of the stuff he says this vehicle doesn’t have, it actually does. ‘Quality control’ seems to be slipping in his videos of late. Maybe he’s become a victim of his own success?
He is getting very lazy and shooting from the hip rather than actually looking into things. Which is weird, because he's watched by enthusiasts, whom will call him out.
Someone needs to show Doug how to use the infotainment in all new Mazdas. Literally everything he said you couldnt do, you can adjust in the settings. lol.
Also the gear selector is actually electronic despite its appearance and does have rollaway safety. I know this because NYC valet parking lot attendants don't understand the gear lever and accidentally leave it in D when they drop it off; the car is smart enough to recognize this dangerous condition and applies the e-brake automatically, plus displays a "Shift To Park" message on the speedo.
Also, when he made a big deal about the proximity key not unlocking all 4 doors. I don't know for certain with modern Mazdas, but on my 2018 Honda, the settings for that kind of stuff is configurable through settings in the entertainment.
@@joebutta7539while I don't entirely agree, afterall he does review a lot of cars and has a go-to list of things to look through, it's kinda disappointing considering how many Mazda's he's tested with this infotainment system
I bought one today. It was certified used with 5k miles. I got it for 37k. It’s a turbo preferred plus., I absolutely love it! I traded my 2020 Wrangler for it. It’s blue. It’s so enjoyable to drive. I’m getting a tow package installed this week to pull a teardrop. I can’t wait to go on a road trip!
I would expect that Inline6 is to be spoken more. Every other car brand goes down-sizing and what Mazda does here is brave. Going with Inline6 is really something to appreciate, in my opinion.
As a Mazda owner I have to defend the infotainment dial, it really does become second nature and feels great to use. Also, keeping the gear lever is nice - feels more substantial than pressing a button or flicking a switch
I agree, my mom has a 2021 CX-5 and I have a 2019 grand Cherokee. I've used both obviously and once you learn the controls for the Mazda, it's pretty simple. Not to mention it's definitely a lot safer.
As a Mazda 3 owner I agree the entertainment knob controls are better than a touchscreen but different. You get used to it and you can turn the tactile knob without having to look at the screen much, compared to a touchscreen where you look where you touch. 100% with Mazda on this.
My wife has a Mazda, I have a Tesla which in terms of tech is the stark opposite, I simply think the touchscreen, if executed right like a Tesla is so much better than the knob button setup in her mazda. With my model 3, the screen is large meaning the icons are big and easy to tap, a lot of functions are a touch or a swipe away and everything is intuitive and well laid out (except the glovebox). With the Mazda I always find myself overshooting or undershooting and the system is not all that big and the icons aren't as big too. There are a lot of automakers with terrible infotainment systems and they've given touchscreens a bad rep, but Tesla really executes the touchscreen well (even better than carplay/android auto)
I recently moved up from a Mazda 3 to a BMW 2-series, and both share a rotary input switch. The Mazda implementation is so much better than the BMW implementation of this input method that it's almost embarrassing how bad the BMW switch is. I never once felt like I had trouble with the rotary in my Mazda, but I struggle with the rotary every time I drive the BMW. Now, I just use the touch screen, and it means my eyes are off the road to do so, especially given how wide the screen is. Doug has judged the Mazda rotary and infotainment based on features rather than usefulness. It is single-handedly the least busy, most feature-forward infotainment system I've ever had the pleasure of using. There are literally only 4 buttons - Home, Nav, Music, and Back, and these are large buttons laid out very well. It is incredibly intuitive, fully functional, and easy to use while driving.
Few things: you can check a box in the settings to make the touchscreen work in drive as well, you can have the music and navigation on the screen at the same time, you just need to change a setting and the gearbox goes into park when you leave the car, the stick just doesn't move automatically. Also, I think the control knob for the infotainment is way more convenient to use than a touchscreen
I like how all of your "interior drawbacks" are literally things I love about the vehicle. I don't want a 30 inch touchscreen in my dash that I have to deal with when trying to change the music or AC or something. A small sleek screen with the push button dial is perfect
2022 CX-9 owner here, that center console dial for the infotainment is amazing. I had my doubts initially but after a week using it, it is indeed much safer than poking around on a touch screen. Plus your screen doesn't get all grossed up with finger prints. And it works really well with Android Auto, I assume carplay as well.
One very important aspect that gets overlooked IMO is that with this setup, the menu is designed to be easily navigated in very few steps. Check out any VW, Peugeot or Citroen touchscreen menu and you get lost in the submenu of the submenu of the submenu, because software engineers dont give a shit about usability. They just write it all of to the screen being touch enabled and expect you to fumble around with your fingers for a LOT of time just to turn off the start-stop.
They've always driven great. Their interiors always let them down in my opinion, up until the last 5 years or so they've really upped their game. I think they've missed a trick with this however it is very nice, I can't stand SUVs, I think they should have brought the Amati name back
The first thing I noticed is the substantive re-engineering of the vehicle and *better balance.* Cab-back instead of cab-forward. The larger engine meant fitting the CX-90 with a rear-wheel-drive configuration along with a re-engineered and re-positioned transmission. *It's not the typical nose heavy FWD chassis.* This not only improves handling but also safety, removing the driver's feet and legs away from the crumple zone in the event of a collision. Something that's important if you want to walk away from an accident instead of being in agony from having your feet and legs mangled up. The improved balance means better looks and safety both. This is what really sets the new Mazda apart from its rivals. *Substance over gadgetry.*
Someone who actually gets it. The CX90 from its conception and down to its architecture is already leaps and ahead of any competitors. An i6? Rwd? No telluride or Pilot can compare, and I love the new Pilot.
@@purwantiallan5089 Exactly, front engine/rear wheel drive. That was the norm in the past, now it's usually the upmarket European cars. The new/current generation Ford Explorer is also a much better balanced and proportioned FR. Maybe good engineering for the masses is making a comeback.
I just traded in my 2022 Toyota Highlander limited hybrid for a 2024 Mazda CX - 90 S premium plus in artisan red with white interior. I loved my Highlander, but I was getting bored and was starting to look at BMW X5 the Lexus RX 500H and test drove them both decided that I wasn’t really ready to spend an extra $20,000 to $30,000 to get a more luxurious car with lots more horsepower than my Highlander.. I have been noticing the Mazda CX-90 and was admiring how gorgeous it is and decided to take one for a test drive and I was very impressed with how it handled, the responsiveness and horsepower - it was fun to drive and felt luxurious. So I bought it. I have to say I do love the dial in conjunction with the touchscreen you can do with Apple CarPlay . You can override it so you can use the touchscreen while the car is moving too! This vehicle also has personalization system that has face recognition so every time you get in the car, it recognizes the driver and sets the whole car to your personalized settings, which I find really cool as I do like all those technology and luxury adders. It remembers your seat position, your mirror setting your last heat or cooling setting and what you like to have come up on your infotainment center, which I choose to have Pandora music come on. I haven’t even had this car for a week and was having some trouble with this personalized settings and went into the dealer and I actually knew more about it from watching videos that I research for on it, it was fun to discover because I didn’t even know it had this as an option and wonder if other people have missed it too.
Great review Doug, but let's also give a shoutout to Mazda for walking that fine line between luxury and practicality. Not just a "midsize car in the USA," but a midsize car that actually thinks about global sensibilities. 👏 Also, about the infotainment debate: It's funny how a "quirk" can become a feature once you're used to it. I agree with those who say the knob is safer and more intuitive once you get the hang of it. Heck, after a while, touchscreens start to feel antiquated. But here's something that many might've missed: The CX-90's Inline-6 is a nod to the enthusiast. It's not just about smoothness; it's about a type of driving joy that's hard to put into words. Inline-6 engines have a kind of "soul" that V6s often lack. Mazda didn't have to go there, but they did, and for that, they deserve applause. 👏 Thoughts, anyone? Is the Inline-6 enough to tip the scales for you, or are you more about the tech and the "quirks and features"?
One thing I couldn't disagree with Doug more on, is Mazda's infotainment dial. Whenever I get into a Mazda or a BMW or Audi or Mercedes, I ALWAYS resort to the center control dial. It truly is safer, and you spend a lot less time looking at the screen to try to find where you want to navigate to on the screen. Just one mans opinion I guess. Edit: Mom look I started a revolution for infotainment dials!
Say it louder! Doug isn't the only journalist who has negative things to say about these systems. They're switching between different cars all the time and never have the time to build the muscle memoy
I feel the same way. I've owned both a 2014 Mazda 3 and a 2016 Mazda CX-5 in the past five years and for me, I've already gotten used to the Mazda connect dial
Yup. Control dials work. It isn't always exactly clear where it's going to highlight next when I'm using it inside apple carplay, but I'm able to keep a comfortable driving position throughout.
One thing Doug didn’t mention was the ambient lighting. It’s not over the top or the most customizable with colours but it is subtle and beautiful. I liken the effect to a candle lit dinner table. Also the CX-90 does have a 6, 7, and an 8 seat configuration. 8 seats are the lower trims though.
Huge respect for Mazda sticking to physical screen controls despite car reviewer complaints - not needing to take your eyes off the road to use this stuff is not only more convenient, but also much much safer. A couple seconds needed to learn the controls is not a big deal for a real customer.
I agree, I used to have a phone that had massive support for gestures so I'd just stand it up in the cup holder and I could operate it without looking at it, like answering calls, playing music etc... I really, really dislike when I have to take my eyes off the road to tap around on a touch screen designed by someone sitting in an office chair with a 24 inch monitor. The rotary dial and buttons can be operated without taking your eyes off the road. It takes a few minutes to get used to it but I think I'm with Mazda on this one.
Surprised to hear you say other Mazdas feel like the rest in the range. Before buying my wife’s CX-5 I test drove the Tiguan, CR-V, Equinox, and few others and it was simply the best drive. I then bought a Tiguan R-Line as my daily just because it was 2nd best to the CX-5 and till this day when I get in the Mazda I go wow, it feels special! The suspension and steering feel is just right in every way.
I love how Doug says it steers and rides and handles so much better than most other SUV's, yet gives it the same Doug score for handling as all the other rivals 😂
But saying it steers and handles better than most SUVs doesn't mean it's a car that handles particularly well, since the bar is set low for this segment
I think back then when he actually explained each category, his scores made sense. Now it seems like he ranks them in a way so it matches in total score hierarchy he thinks the car should sit at.
I love the Inline 6 badge personally! I6's are one of the greatest engine layouts around in terms of smoothness and sound, so I think that's pretty cool! It legitimately got me excited knowing there wasn't a V6 in there...
Just as an FYI, MOST people don't really care all that much about all the tech in todays tech heavy cars (According to a number of surveys I've seen). I commend Mazda in not having such as tech overwhelming vehicle, but rather a vehicle that focuses on the things that matter to most. Good job Mazda.
Lol so you’re also going to be commending Mazda for putting timing chains in the back of the engine and having to drop the engine for basically any maintenance that isn’t an oil change? This car sucks overall and it’s not just the wonky tech. The engineering is terrible. Watch car care nut’s review.
@@areallytallguyYea, because timing chains go so frequently. Knew you were mentioning that idiot's hit piece before you even typed the words. Go watch Dave Coleman's explanation of the engineering behind the CX-90. You might learn something instead of hypotheticals from a YT mechanic.
I think the reason that they have the inline 6 batch is because back in the day inline 6s we're known for there smoothness. Naturally it's a very balanced engine. Not to mention it's a nod to the car enthusiasts.
Having a car with a touchscreen (Porsche) and a car with control wheel (Mercedes) I can say full stop I prefer the control wheel. Being able to know from muscle memory the exact number of clicks and movements to get to where I need without looking is so nice. With CarPlay it can be annoying, but it’s still much safer and easier to use while driving.
@@mars-jr5uu Hi, thanks :) My profile picture is actually the blood moon that occurred in around 2018 and that I took a photo of. Though yours looks cool too
Mazda is an « analog » and Japanese car brand. They tend to focus on the driver and driving one, I can safely say they are among the most enjoyable car to drive. Some choices made here are perfectly OK with me like the touchscreen not working while driving (it’s easier to use the buttons instead, muscle memory !), the shifter adds this mechanical feel that going instinct in too much cars, etc.
I love my '21 Mazda3 Sedan, it's a GT Turbo, (Turbo Premium plus in the US) plenty of power for a daily driver and I came from a '97 V6 Mustang and I at 22 actually prefer the screen/button setup, to the big 12in touch screens like in my brothers Ram, I find them distracting, always have, and your right on the muscle memory.
I love Mazda's brand philosophy and I think they're well on their way to moving up market. They're focused on things that I really agree with: getting away from touchscreens and focusing on useful physical buttons. Elegant, not trendy, styling that will age well. Driving experience, engagement and physicality. Decent software (many of the things Doug dislikes are actually fixable thru options). Features people want (ventilated seats) and none of the silly features (bmw infotainment gesture controls or slow-folding power 3rd row seats). I also think they're being very smart to continue optimizing their ICE powertrains and hybrid tech, instead of jumping on the electric bandwagon. I really hope they can one day get back to some truly sporty models!
if you want to see what mazda can do in the way of luxury vehicles, take a look at their luxury mazda brand called Eunos, and the Cosmo sports built back in 1990. It was the worlds first production car to have factory fitted GPS. and full leather interior. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-yhpVLq4_RG8.html
2019 CX-9 GT owner here. Love the infotainment system and dial. Keeps everything clean and safer than touch screen. Loved it so much bought the wife a 2023 CX-5 Signature. Will not be the last Mazdas we own if they keep it up.
Great review. I own the CX90 PHEV and i agree with almost all you said, except i dont have any issues with the technology. I find the infotainment easy to use and intuitive. For my taste, Mazda does everything just about perfect. I enjoy their minimalist take on luxury and find everything you touch, see and hear utterly satisfying.
Doug fails to mention: - lower trims can be had with 8 seats. - highest trims on all power trains come with touch-while-moving Apple CarPlay. That eliminates 95% of his tech complaints. - the ergonomics of infotainment harkens back to iDrive BMW knob. It’s ergonomically proven right now. Try enjoy some of that lateral acceleration and use touch screen at same time… vs iDrive is muscle memory
@@circuittoys we also just traded up from a CX5, which was great. The CX-90 is not quite as "fun" to drive but still has that Mazda feel and more refined. I like how quiet it is.
I love the direction mazda is going. They said what they were gonna do and now we're seeing them go out and do it, and they're doing a great job imo. Giving genesis and even the euro brands a run for their money.
I used to hate that Mazdas lock you out of touch screen but now that I own a 2019 I can confidently say that I hate touchscreens now. Mazdas new design for their interiors makes it harder to reach the screen anyway so its definitely better to stick with buttons
Totally agree. Once you use if for a few days you can get around the entertainment system without taking eyes off the road, and no smudges on the screen.
You’re talking about this car like Mazda hasn’t been making premium offerings for generations.. Mazda is a historical automaker that has a Motorsport heritage and a design philosophy that makes them what they are. Just because they’re not as prevalent doesn’t mean they’re less than. It’s not shocking that Mazda makes such an incredible machine. It’s like an American comparing Alfa Romeo to Toyota..
The mechanical shift lever is a benefit, not a drawback. Also, having used the knob and buttons in my wife's CX-5, I prefer it to the touchscreen. It's also nice to not have to reach over to the screen, as well as not get fingerprints all over the screen.
Literally everyone that uses the mazda knob for the infotainment for max 2 weeks is going to like it better than the touch screen, its just the people that havent tried it that say it sucks
@@carlitox370literally the only people that think it’s easier are Mazda people who have no other option. Shut up. Touchscreens are way easier. Doug literally goes over multiple reasons why the screen not being touchscreen is a huge issue.
@@areallytallguy no its not lmao, i had 2 touch screen cars before my mazda, and when i switched i got fully used to it in like a week, and since then i havent gone back, also sometimes when i drive my sisters car that has a touch screen i find it so annoying to be distracted on the road when i want to do anything regarding the screen
After owning a cx-30 turbo for 3 years I am in love with the dial controls and physical buttons. Everything I see my friends fishing around on touchscreens I find it hilarious. Especially tesla's
I've had 2020 Mazda 3 since fall of 2019 and I promise you the lack of touchscreen is fine. The scroll wheel is very intuitive after using it for a couple weeks. Not only this but there's no lag. Very smooth software, very responsive (which is why I have an issue with Doug calling it "clunky", when it's anything but).
The problem with a focus on tech is no matter how advance, no matter what a manufacture does, it becomes outdated near instantly. Every vehicle will have old tech in a few years so it’s actually ideal to keep it simple and minimally gimmick free for longevity. It’s good they focused on the important shit that never becomes outdated: driving dynamics.
8:35 That is 100% an electronic gear shifter, with no mechanical linkage to the transmission, with the shifts decided by the computer. The vehicle is in fact equipped with an auto park feature that will place the transmission in park if you turn the car off and open the door. Doug, this took me 2 minutes to find in the owner's manual.
I have a 22 cx5 and I have no qualms with the infotainment. Practically, it is more than adequate. People focus on the dial too much as a drawback, which it can be if you ignore the convenient buttons. For instance, you don't need to press a home button and navigate to Entertainment, then navigate to Radio. You just press the Music button and it takes you straight to the display of whatever you currently have for audio (whether it's bluetooth, FM, AM, or Sirius). Then you can press it again to pull up a list of audio sources if you want to change. To be honest the benefit of having deliberate and distinct button presses you'll develop the muscle memory to perform these short procedures without taking your eyes off the road.
Most of the minor complaints about the infotainment are things I prefer. I love the controls in my Mazda. It works even better with android auto/carplay. I feel like we need a new premium class of vehicles. Not mass market or luxury but premium. The CX-90 firmly fits into that category.
Maybe the inline 6 badge is a bit too much, but having a new in house 6 cylinder engine is huge for Mazda. Being a small company, during downsizing and electrifycation, it takes a lot to introduce an engine like this. Love mazda for it, always doing their thing. Also, the car is gorgeous both in and out but I agree a better infotainment would go a long way.
I don't blame Mazda for pointing out the inline-6. A big deal when everything in its class either has a turbo 4 or an old V6. The I-6 is something only found in a few luxury vehicles.
@@tazwarhossain5283 , yes, the outgoing CX-9 looked better but then everyone complained it was too tight inside. Mazda can't win with its rounded design language. Only those that can design a square rear end can look good and have space too but square isn't Mazda.
I don't think it's too much at all. Many makers put 'V6' or 'V8' badges on cars. An 'Inline6' badge is basically no different. Just Dougy being Silly. Silly Dougy.
I have been driving a Mazda 3 for a year now, I must agree with others here that the infotainment dial is great. It saves you from concentrating on the screen while trying to change stuff, making it a safety and time-saving feature.
Review the Car Care Nut's review of the cx90. He's an excellent mechanic, but his in depth review makes you think twice. Doug's review is very superficial.
@taylormcfadden558 superficial in the sense that he just goes over the vehicle in terms of performance and features, not in any negative way. It's just how he delivers his info. Some of us prefer the finer details.
@@JCintheBCCI find two types of luxury car buyers, those that move in and out of them before the warranty is up and those that buy them hoping to hold them. The later almost always go back to something more common after experiencing the thrill of german/British autos.
The inline 6 is a great benefit. Naturally a very balanced and smooth engine, typically a very robust one as well. Also less complex than a v6, the inline 6 is the superior design in my opinion. I agree it has a weird badge when most of its buyers won't know what it means, but It probably brags about that because many cars don't feature these engines due to "sizing constraints" despite the fact new cars are now massive. Also many cars don't even have 6 cylinders in the first place anymore. The engine is probably the biggest appeal to this car to me
From an overarching engineering perspective, a V6 makes a ton more sense than an inline-six in most cases. In most sizes (up to 4 liters) they still have more than adequate smoothness; they are lighter and are less detrimental to weight distribution in all directions due to a lower center of gravity and lower moment of inertia; you don't need to worry about crank torsion nigh on as much; and so on. I will say that I am a fan of Mazda's new i6, especially its high compression and slightly above average displacement (3.3 versus most other companies' 3.0). I like that the CX-90 comes with it as standard equipment, as the CX-70 (my probable future car) also probably will; and I actually understand the badge. For Mazda, it's their first homegrown six-cylinder since the early 2000s, and in the context of modern midsizes, "it's not a dang four-banger".
Maybe they are “advertising” the inline6 to attempt to pull from BMW’s clientele? Many BMW aficionados know that BMW automobiles have inline 6s. So, going more upscale looking and also having the inline 6 may be going after the BMW customer?
Mazda has designed this engine to be way overcomplicated and the repair bills are going to be enormous. For example, you have to remove the entire engine just to change the timing chain. And the mild hybrid system is clunky and unrefined.
Using the cruise control switch, you can change the gauge cluster layout from the one you saw to a different one that shows the RPM gauge, speed as well as coolant temps etc
This looks great! Love the focus on quality vs tech that will be dated in 5 years. Our ‘16 CX-5 has been a great car and I’ll echo what everyone else has said that the infotainment knob is awesome. Might be a future vehicle!
Better experience than the top of the line regular brands, but still luxurious and has more features than entry level luxury brands. I like Mazda a lot and I'm considering buying a CX-50 if my wife decides she doesn't want a sedan.
Been driving a CX-50 Turbo for a few months now and I love it. I needed the extra plastic cladding for where I live, but I just love the look of it much more than the CX-5 or even the 90 which is also nice. Upgraded from a mazda 3 base model and it was quite a leap that I am glad I made.
the inline 6 is one of the few possible engine configuration that is stable in all axis in all time, making it very low on vibration and very comfy driving.
almost every huge semi or dump truck is an inline 6, even bmw has a bunch of inline 6. theyre the most smooth reliable engine design there is, best way to get power without over complicating everything
@@bradhaines3142The cylinders being in a row isn't what makes it reliable. In this case it's an overly complicated engine with a clunky mild hybrid system. It's unlikely to be very reliable and the repair bills are going to be huge. For example you have to remove the entire engine just to replace the timing chain. This is not a well designed power train.
Trust me. This is smaller than something like a BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS, and is dwarfed by some giants here like the Cadillac Escalade or Ford Expedition.
The back seats of a family three row SUV should be more like a police car. basic rugged plastic, sound and bulletproof glass and you should be able to wash it with a hose.
I have Mazda. On mine, you can set the door opening either to driver door or all 4. I believe factory setting is driver door alone. Unless they canceled this function in the setting, I think Doug may have missed it.
I just took advantage of the 72% residual on the PHEV Premium for 24/12 Lease. That coupled with the $7,500 EV rebate and $500 loyalty and I'm in a $55k vehicle for $0 down and $575 a month. Yes they're discounting them below invoice. Edit: It gets ~30 miles of battery range with regen braking on high.
@@drsipp407I had to do some work but even lease brokers in the northeast had a slightly cheaper lease. Sadly they sold 93+ leases in the 1st week at Ramsey Mazda in NJ and I settled for a $600 more expensive deal locally.
That's a great deal! I'm jealous! Couldn't wait until the CX-90 release so took advantage of a CX-9 Carbon Edition lease deal earlier this year instead for around the same price. What trim CX-90 did you get?
I recently purchased a base model. After titling and taxes, it was about 44K. I couldn't find a Honda Pilot for less than 47k, and if it had leather it was at or over 50k. The CX90 has a more refined powertrain and has a wonderful chassis. This is the 3 row to buy if you're looking for a smooth driving, comfortable vehicle to tackle freeways and mall parking lots.
@@ltorrence I just bought a 2020 CX9 two weeks ago. My experience was that Toyota and Honda have the brand recognition and are charging a HUGE premium for it. I spent $27k on the CX9, about the same price as a CRV with the same amount of miles. The Toyota dealership had ZERO all wheel drive models in stock under $33,000. They are charging well above MSRP for every new model, and used models are going for the exact same price they sold for 2 years ago.
2022 CX-9 Owner here. Can confirm that dial is much better than touch screen. No disgusting finger prints all over the screen in the car. It takes seconds to get used to, and it becomes more intuitive. Doug is really getting torched in the comments
I have the same system that locks me out of using the touchscreen while moving on my 2015 Mazda 3 and I don't miss getting my screen smudged and reaching for it at all. The dial and the buttons are intuitively placed and work very well so there's not even a need for touch functionality at all in my opinion. I haven't used the touch function at all since I have the car, and if more car brands would just use a similar system it would probably be safer in the long run for everyone on the road.
Really love the CX90!! Nice review, but im gonna have to disagree with you with the gear selector and the infotainment system. The gear lever is actually a benefit, and its much more safer and easier to use than a knob or a push button, and it'll automaticly go to park when the drivers door is open. Also.. the rear view mirror camera is an 0PTI0NAL feature for the CX90, and this does have keyless entry for all 4 doors. You just have to turn it on in the settings. And yes the infotainment may not be the best, but its also not the worst either. Let's just say that you dont know how to use Mazda infotainment systems buddy. It's actually fairly modern and easy to use. My college friend has a brand new CX50, and he got used to the informainment fairly quickly even while driving. Its actually better than reaching over to the screen, and causing it to have scratches and fingerprints all over the screen.
@@cenciende9401 I wouldn't necessarily call it bad design. It's only the tacked on tablet on a dashboard that is a minor complaint to me, and it's a trend now.
@@tazwarhossain5283Yeah, it's the new Mazda booty, the Mazda 3 Hatch back and the cx-30 also have fat asses. That's why I went with the 3 sedan. It's a hit or miss for most but Ill admit it makes their cars stand on the road against generic box shaped ones. Personally I think cx-90 should've had a flat ass like the cx-5
It does look kind of funny, but I've had a cx-90 for only a few months and the bubble has come in handy a few times already when transporting stuff@@Unsalted375
Nav has split screen. You can show the radio. But the system doesn't need it. It's very quick to navigate between applications like radio or nav. It's a good system.
Oddly i had the same feelings when i bought my Audi Q5 in 2020. Every vehicle had a touch screen, but you had the use a similar dial and touchpad setup that ended up being second nature and i really prefer it now as your arm is still comfy on the armrest and you just using to hand and wrist to adjust so you basically never need to move your arm. The gauge cluster is a billion times better on the audi though. I can customize it a ton and have my background be the nav map.
Dear Doug, a mechanical gear selector is more reliable than an electronic one, and although you are right about the safety part; I think Mazda decided to play it safe when it came to ensuring that their product lasts for years of service.
I'd prefer to be able to roll the car forward with the doors open while my crew is trying to jump inside while being chased by zombies...or if the battery is dead and stuff. Electronic shifters are a stupid gimmick, just ask Scotty!
Perhaps the actual badge on the front fenders isn't my favorite bit of clutter, but the Inline 6 label does refer to a very desirable engine configuration, inherently exceptionally smooth and balanced. Much more pedigreed than the V6 in, for instance, my Kia. It's worth bragging about.
I don't know if you're correct about the key fob and the doors? I believe in the entertainment system there's a setting that you can change to allow all four doors to unlock, and lock. It's a setting that has to be changed I believe cuz I have a CX-5 and that's how mine works
Great video!!! Loved the coverage of what all this SUV offers, and it's also pretty to look at! Thanks for reviewing this Doug, especially that it's a everyday 'persons' car versus all the high-end fancy vehicles reviewed as of late.
The second row center console is an increasingly popular option for Luxury SUVs. Lincoln has had it in the Navigator for many years now, Crystler has had it since they relaunched the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, the Escalade has been late to the party but Cadillac JUST introduced it (like days ago) with the new Escalade IQ, and of course the 4-seater luxury SUVs (top trim Lexus LX, Range Rover, etc) have it. And now this. I like it personally
congrats on your new car doug (the porsche that you got 6 months ago) you have been one of my favorite youtubers since i was little and i hope you are doing well
5:43 If find it cool that Mazda decided to add the Inline 6 badge on the fender. It's their first I-6 engine! The smaller CX-60 has the same badge. CX-60 competes with the GLC, X3, XC60 etc, which mostly have 2.0 litre I4 under the bonnet, so yes in that regard this badge fits better to the CX-60. PHEV versions obviously have PHEV badge on the fender.
Interesting, some complaints you had at the beginning of the video are present in my mazda 3. proximity unlock unlocks all 4 doors, the car will go into park if the door is open (and the seatbelt is not on for the driver), and the infotaintment screen is amazing with Android Auto/Apple Carplay and I often multitask (maps and music/radio) Also, a quirk or maybe feature is that the drivetrain you drove includes the return of the mazda rotary engine!!!..... In the form of the electric generator/AC compressor
I think this model is amazing but more than what I need. I have the cx5 and I'm crazy about it. Definitely the nicest, most luxurious suv I've ever owned. I'll be a repeat customer for sure!
I think most that own a Mazda can agree with me, when I got my CX-50 I didn’t like that the screen wasn’t touch screen. But overtime you get use to it using the dials, your screen doesn’t get smudged and it’s placement is perfect so don’t have to look down.
It is family car for carguys. Drives well and it looks nice inside and out. For tech, it a bit too similar to my Mazda 3 but honestly I don't miss anything.
I saw one of these in a parking lot, top trim level, and I definitely did a double take because of how attractive the car is. Definitely a great looking car.
Mazda’s styling has been simple and elegant and honestly just incredible for over a decade now…have a CX-5 and it’s been amazing on looks and reliability for a extremely affordable “everyday man’s” vehicle
@@SKiiTTLe5 I just got a 2020 CX9 with 45k miles. I'm really hoping it holds up, my Subaru died right before this at 80k miles and it was a major disappointment.
@@JohnJohnson-kg4ek it’ll hold up, Mazda is unbelievably reliable and they’re fun little drivers too…does yours have the turbo? Subaru is wildly overrated in my opinion, they’re all hype and hipster popular…their off-road all wheel drive has been questioned several times and the company just blows it off or smugly ignores consumers and reviewers.
@@SKiiTTLe5 Yes it does have the turbo! It comes standard in the CX9 and it's really fun. It also has an off road mode that I haven't got a chance to test yet.
Doug reminds me of one of my best friends I had back through grades 7-9. He's been a University professor for several decades. Oh, nice Mazda! Good job Doug!
The key issue I believe is for security reasons. In the city you don't want all, your doors to open because unscrupulous folks will jump in with you. I personally take the security over what might seem to be inconvenience.
That makes absolutely no sense as a security feature. Any car with keyless entry can sense where the key is - only the door you're standing directly in front of will allow you to unlock it.
I may be wrong but I believe his comment was directed towards the back door handles are not proximity controlled like the fronts. So in turn you would have to use the fob or touch the front door handle to open the rear.
The 360 camera system is so good. I have it on my CX-50. My only gripe is that I wish the button for the cameras was on the steering wheel. I use it all the time.
Mazada has been producing some amazing vehicles for the last couple of years. I have been looking at the CX 9/90 for the last 6 years as a daily driver, but somehow I went with the Dodge Durango back-to-back. That should not take away from this amazing vehicle as it is truly remarkable. People have been sleeping on this brand for the longest. I truly fell in love with this brand when I first saw the Millennia back in the day I knew their design concept was on point from then.
Mazda has been building amazing cars since the first mazda built in 1960, the R360, a micro car with a 360cc engine, then later in 1960 the mazda cosmo rotary, and ever since, they have been making unique cars, more than just machinery, they become part of the family. I just saw a 1972 mazda capella RX2 in town, and it turned my head and made me smile as much as a Ferrari would. But the mazda is something i can own, not so with the Ferrari.
9:25 - Great review, btw you dont need an electronic gear selector for the car to shift in P when the door is open, Wranglers and Gladiators have physical shifters and the software shifts to P in case you drive with an open door regardless of the position on the physical shifter.
Ms Mazda here, I love Mazda. Love your review of this vehicle I am really thinking of leasing the mid grade one. This review highlighted many things I overlooked. Thanks
Excellent review, as always. I know you can't objectively quantify Mazda's inspired drive feel. I have a 2020 Miata which I love, and it has made me love and appreciate Mazda so much that the CX-90 will be my Chevy Suburban replacement.
I'm curious to see what the depreciation on one of these will look like. If I had to guess, it will benefit from Mazda's history and market perception and will lose less value over the same period vs. luxury brands. That's a boost to the overall value for most consumers.
As a current Mazda CX9 owner, frankly speaking CX90 is comprehensively improved, but only 2 Negatives points stopped my upgrade plan. 1: The second row headroom space is more narrow than CX9. 2: 8AT transmission shifting gears is more lag than CX9 6AT, especially 1-2-3. Hopefully Mazda could hear about this and improve it.
@bwofficial1776 Everyone other than u agrees with me and not just them most other auto journalist and reviewers point out the exact same thing....what could've been a beautiful design gone wrong bcuz of a horrendous rear end!!
Yeah same, I never really much of a fan of the back end of all Mazda crossovers. But at least they don't put the turn signal on the lower part of the bumber unlike the Korean brands.
