Hey guys! So, you're in the market for a new SUV, and you've got your eye on a Mazda. Smart move! Mazda's known for its stylish designs, sporty handling, and premium feel. But now you're faced with a tough choice: the Mazda CX-9 or the newer Mazda CX-90? Don't sweat it; we're here to break down the key differences to help you decide which Mazda SUV is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. This comparison dives deep into everything from performance and interior space to features and value, ensuring you've got all the info you need before making your decision. Get ready for a detailed look at two of Mazda's finest!

Understanding the Contenders: Mazda CX-9 and Mazda CX-90

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's get acquainted with our contenders. The Mazda CX-9, a long-standing favorite, has been turning heads for years with its elegant design and engaging driving dynamics. Known for its sophisticated interior and premium feel, the CX-9 has consistently won awards and praise from critics and owners alike. It’s the kind of SUV that makes you feel good just sitting in it, let alone driving it. On the other hand, the Mazda CX-90 is the new kid on the block, bringing a fresh perspective to Mazda's SUV lineup. The CX-90 is a larger, more spacious offering that aims to provide even more versatility and premium features. It's designed to cater to families who need extra space without sacrificing Mazda's signature driving experience. This SUV really goes after the full-size SUV segment with its size and features. It's like Mazda is saying, "We've got something for everyone!" The goal is simple, to offer Mazda lovers more options in an ever-growing SUV world. Both SUVs share Mazda's commitment to quality, design, and driving pleasure, but they approach these goals from slightly different angles. Understanding these differences is the key to choosing the right SUV for you.

The Mazda CX-9: A Refined Classic

The Mazda CX-9, often praised for its sleek, flowing lines, has become a benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment. Its design is all about understated elegance, with a premium feel that sets it apart from many competitors. Inside, the CX-9 boasts a thoughtfully designed cabin with high-quality materials and a focus on driver comfort. The available features, while not always the newest, offer a comprehensive package that meets the needs of most families. The CX-9 typically comes equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Mazda's signature driving dynamics make it feel more engaging than many other SUVs in its class, offering a responsive and enjoyable experience on the road. For anyone looking for a stylish, well-appointed, and fun-to-drive SUV, the CX-9 remains a solid choice. The CX-9 offers a great blend of practicality, style, and driving enjoyment, making it a compelling option for those who value these qualities in an SUV. The CX-9 is the perfect blend of style and substance.

The Mazda CX-90: The New Kid on the Block

The Mazda CX-90 represents Mazda's latest advancements in the SUV market. As a larger vehicle, the CX-90 provides more space, especially in the third row, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently transport passengers. The exterior design incorporates Mazda's latest styling language, with a more imposing and robust stance. Inside, the CX-90 continues Mazda's tradition of offering a premium cabin experience, but it adds even more space and modern technology. One of the significant changes in the CX-90 is its available inline-six engine, which delivers impressive power and refinement. The CX-90 also comes equipped with the latest technology features, including advanced driver-assistance systems and updated infotainment. This SUV is designed for those who need more space, more power, and the latest in technology, without sacrificing the premium feel that Mazda is known for. The CX-90 is a clear statement that Mazda is continuing to innovate and meet the changing needs of today’s SUV buyers.

Performance and Driving Experience: Power and Dynamics

Alright, let's get into what really matters when you're behind the wheel!

Engine and Power: CX-9 vs. CX-90

The Mazda CX-9 typically comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a healthy dose of power, making it feel peppy and responsive in most driving situations. The engine's performance is often praised for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness, providing a good balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency. It’s a great option for daily driving, with enough grunt to handle highway merges and passing maneuvers without breaking a sweat.

The Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, has a few engine options that give it an edge in terms of power and performance. The primary standout is the available inline-six engine, which offers significantly more horsepower and torque than the CX-9’s four-cylinder. The inline-six engine is known for its smooth operation and robust power delivery, making the CX-90 feel especially capable on the road. The CX-90 also offers a plug-in hybrid option. This gives drivers the choice of prioritizing fuel efficiency or performance. The variety in engine options makes the CX-90 a great choice. Both SUVs are a blast to drive, just depends on your preferred experience!

Handling and Ride Quality

When it comes to handling and ride quality, Mazda has always prioritized a sporty driving experience, and both the CX-9 and CX-90 deliver on this front. The CX-9 is celebrated for its nimble handling and responsive steering, making it feel more like a sports sedan than a typical SUV. It's fun to drive, with a ride that's both comfortable and engaging. The suspension is tuned to provide a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. It's an SUV that you'll actually enjoy driving on winding roads. The CX-90 builds on Mazda's reputation for driving excellence. While it is larger, it still offers a dynamic driving experience. The steering is precise, and the suspension is well-tuned to provide a smooth ride while maintaining good control. The CX-90 is designed to handle well, even with its larger size, giving drivers a sense of confidence and control. The ride quality is generally comfortable, with a sense of stability that makes it enjoyable on both city streets and long highway drives. Both the CX-9 and CX-90 are known for their driving dynamics, making them excellent choices for those who enjoy driving. The CX-9 is known for its nimble handling, while the CX-90 offers a blend of performance and comfort that keeps Mazda's tradition of driving excellence intact.

Interior and Comfort: Space, Features, and Technology

Interior Design and Space

Let's get comfy!

The Mazda CX-9 offers a beautifully designed interior with a focus on quality materials and a refined aesthetic. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with a driver-focused design that enhances the overall driving experience. Front-seat occupants will enjoy ample space and comfortable seating, while the second row is also reasonably spacious. The third row, however, is best suited for children or smaller adults, as space can be limited. The cargo area behind the third row is also somewhat limited, making it best for small storage needs. The Mazda CX-90 takes interior space to the next level. As a larger SUV, the CX-90 provides more room for passengers in all three rows. The third row in the CX-90 is more usable for adults, making it a better choice for families who need to transport more passengers. The CX-90's design features high-quality materials, with a luxurious feel. The increased space makes it a more practical choice for families, with a cargo area that can handle more luggage or gear. The CX-90 provides significantly more cargo space, making it a great option for families. Both offer a premium interior experience, but the CX-90 provides more space for passengers and cargo.

Features and Technology

Both the CX-9 and CX-90 come equipped with a range of features and technology. The CX-9 offers a comprehensive set of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems, and premium audio options. The system is easy to use, and the overall tech integration enhances the driving experience. The CX-9 keeps up with modern standards with its features, though they might not be the very latest. The CX-90, being the newer model, offers the latest in technology, including a larger infotainment screen, updated driver-assistance features, and a more advanced infotainment system. It's loaded with the latest tech, offering a more contemporary feel. The CX-90 also provides additional tech features, such as enhanced connectivity options, making it a more tech-forward choice. Both offer great features, but the CX-90 provides a more updated tech experience.

Pricing and Value: What You Get for Your Money

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both the CX-9 and CX-90 offer competitive value in the SUV market. The Mazda CX-9 generally comes with a slightly lower starting price than the CX-90. This makes it a great choice for buyers who want a premium SUV experience without breaking the bank. The CX-9's value is bolstered by its long list of standard features, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics. The Mazda CX-90, being the newer model and offering more space and advanced technology, comes with a slightly higher price tag. However, the CX-90's increased size, enhanced engine options, and updated features provide significant value for the price. The CX-90 offers more for your money in terms of space, technology, and performance. In the end, the choice between the two will depend on your budget and how much space and technology you need.

Long-Term Value and Ownership Costs

Both Mazda SUVs are known for their reliability and long-term value. Mazda vehicles consistently rank well in reliability surveys, and the CX-9 and CX-90 are no exceptions. Ownership costs, including maintenance and repairs, are generally reasonable, making these SUVs cost-effective choices over the long haul. The resale value of Mazda vehicles is also relatively strong, meaning that you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you decide to sell or trade in your SUV. Mazda's reputation for quality and reliability makes both the CX-9 and CX-90 smart choices for the long term. Both SUVs are smart investments, with good reliability and solid resale values.

Which Mazda SUV Is Right for You?

So, which Mazda SUV is the winner for you? It really depends on your needs!

• Choose the Mazda CX-9 if: You want a stylish, refined, and fun-to-drive SUV. The CX-9 is an excellent choice for individuals or small families who prioritize a premium feel, engaging driving dynamics, and a manageable size. The CX-9 is ideal if you value driving pleasure and elegant design. If you don't need the extra space of a larger SUV, and you appreciate a more agile driving experience, the CX-9 is likely the perfect fit. This SUV has become a favorite for its stylish design and exceptional driving dynamics. If you're a Mazda lover and are looking for a beautiful car to drive around in, this is the one!

• Choose the Mazda CX-90 if: You need more space, more power, and the latest technology. The CX-90 is the ideal choice for larger families or those who frequently transport passengers. The CX-90 provides a premium experience with more space, power, and cutting-edge technology. If you need a larger vehicle and want the latest features, the CX-90 is the way to go. If you prioritize space, advanced technology, and a more powerful engine, then the CX-90 is the clear choice. The CX-90 is also great if you need that extra bit of power.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, both the Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 are outstanding SUVs that offer a premium experience. The CX-9 is a great choice if you prioritize style, driving dynamics, and a more compact size. The CX-90 offers more space, more power, and the latest technology, making it the better choice for larger families or those who need extra cargo space. No matter which SUV you choose, you're guaranteed to enjoy Mazda's commitment to quality, design, and driving pleasure. Happy driving, guys! The best car is the car that fits your needs! Both of these cars are an excellent choice.