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Best Mazda CX-90 Model Years (Ranked)

📖 2,650 words🗓️ Published Jun 22, 2026 · Updated Jun 21, 2026

The Mazda CX-90 is Mazda's flagship three-row SUV, launched for the 2024 model year to replace the aging CX-9. Built on Mazda's new rear-biased Large Platform, it introduced an inline-six turbocharged engine and a plug-in hybrid option, a major leap upmarket for the brand. Because the CX-90 is so new, its history is short and still unfolding: only the 2024 launch year and the lightly updated 2025 exist so far. So this ranking really sorts two model years across their powertrain and trim variants (Turbo, Turbo S, PHEV), flags the early transmission and software quirks worth checking, and shows where the smart used and new-buy value sits today.

Direct Answer

The best overall Mazda CX-90 is the 2025 3.3 Turbo S, which keeps the excellent 3.3L inline-six turbo and rear-biased dynamics while benefiting from a year of running software and transmission refinements that smoothed out the launch model's low-speed shift hesitation. For shoppers focused on value, the best value is a 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (mid grade), which delivers the same upscale interior and a strong 280-horsepower six at a meaningful used discount off sticker. The Turbo S trims add 340 horsepower for buyers who want maximum thrust, while the PHEV suits those wanting short electric commutes. Because only the 2024 and 2025 years exist, the choice is mostly about variant and condition — verify any early build's transmission software updates before purchase, since that is the model's most-discussed early concern.

*Note: This article ranks real CX-90 model years only (2024 and 2025); the nameplate did not exist before 2024. Used pricing varies by condition and local market.*

flowchart TD A["2025 CX-90 Turbo S — Best Overall"] --> B["2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo — Best Value"] B --> C["2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo"] C --> D["2025 CX-90 PHEV"] D --> E["2024 CX-90 Turbo S"] E --> F["2024 CX-90 PHEV"]

1. 2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S

The 2025 CX-90 is the model at its best. Mazda spent the first year addressing the low-speed shift hesitation and mild-hybrid software behavior that early reviewers flagged, so the eight-speed automatic (a clutch-pack design rather than a torque converter) behaves more smoothly. The 3.3L turbocharged inline-six in Turbo S tune makes a strong 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft on premium fuel, paired with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive.

The cabin is genuinely premium, with available Nappa leather, real wood, and a 12.3-inch display. Rear-biased balance gives it the most engaging drive in the three-row class. With a year of refinement behind it, the 2025 is the CX-90 to buy if your budget reaches it.

2. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (Mid Grade) 💎 BEST VALUE

2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (Mid Grade)

The 2024 3.3 Turbo is the value sweet spot. It uses the lower-output tune of the inline-six, making 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft on regular fuel, which is plenty for a family hauler and avoids the premium-fuel requirement of the Turbo S. As the launch model year, used examples now sell at a clear discount off original sticker.

You still get the same rear-biased Large Platform, standard AWD, and the upscale interior that makes the CX-90 feel a class above its price. The best value is a Preferred or Premium trim 2024 Turbo, which bundles leather, a power liftgate, and driver-assist tech. Confirm the transmission software updates were applied and the deal is excellent.

3. 2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo

2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo

The 2025 Turbo combines the most sensible engine with the refined second-year build. The 280-hp inline-six runs happily on regular gasoline, returns roughly 25 mpg combined, and pulls strongly thanks to the mild-hybrid 48-volt assist that smooths stop-start and low-rpm response.

For most families this is the rational pick: you get the 2025's smoother transmission calibration without paying for the Turbo S's premium-fuel performance. Trims from Select through Premium Plus cover a wide price range, and standard all-wheel drive plus three rows of seating make it a practical, handsome alternative to a Telluride or Grand Highlander. It is the engine and year combination that ages best.

4. 2025 CX-90 PHEV

2025 CX-90 PHEV

The 2025 CX-90 PHEV pairs a 2.5L four-cylinder with an electric motor and a 17.8 kWh battery for roughly 25 miles of electric range and a combined output near 323 horsepower. For drivers with a short commute who can charge at home, it can cover daily trips on electricity and switch to gasoline for road trips, with three-row seating intact.

It qualified for certain plug-in hybrid incentives depending on year and state, improving its effective value. The trade-offs are a smaller cargo area beneath the floor and a less characterful engine than the inline-six. Choose the PHEV if electric commuting and efficiency outweigh outright smoothness and power.

5. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S

2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S

The 2024 Turbo S brought the full 340-hp inline-six to the launch year. It is quick, refined when warm, and sounds terrific for a family SUV. Turbo S and Turbo S Premium Plus sit at the top of the lineup with the richest equipment, including Nappa leather, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera.

The caveats are the launch-year items: the low-speed transmission hesitation and mild-hybrid software behavior that Mazda refined for 2025, plus the premium-fuel requirement to reach rated output. A well-documented 2024 Turbo S with the latest software updates is a strong performer at a used discount, but verify those updates were completed.

6. 2024 CX-90 PHEV

2024 CX-90 PHEV

The 2024 PHEV introduced Mazda's plug-in three-row, using the 2.5L four plus electric motor for around 323 combined horsepower and roughly 25 miles of electric range. As the launch PHEV, it shares the lineup's early software refinement timeline, so confirm updates were applied.

It remains a sensible buy for home-charging commuters who want to minimize gasoline use without giving up three rows. Some early owners noted the transition between electric and gas modes felt less seamless than rivals, an area improved over time. Priced used below a comparable RAV4 Prime or Sorento PHEV in many markets, the 2024 PHEV can be a smart efficiency-focused value for the right driver.

7. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus

2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus

The Turbo Premium Plus trim of the 2024 car packages the 280-hp inline-six with near-top-tier luxury features, including ventilated front seats, a Bose audio system, and second-row captain's chairs on some configurations. It delivers most of the cabin richness of a Turbo S while keeping the regular-fuel engine and lower running costs.

For a buyer who wants the loaded interior experience without the premium-fuel Turbo S, this is the trim to target. As with all 2024 cars, confirm the transmission and mild-hybrid software were updated. The combination of a relaxed engine, full equipment, and a used discount makes a clean Premium Plus an appealing family flagship.

8. 2025 CX-90 Select / Preferred (Base Engine Trims)

2025 CX-90 Select / Preferred (Base Engine Trims)

The entry 2025 trims still use the 3.3L inline-six in 280-hp form, so even the most affordable CX-90 gets the standout engine and standard all-wheel drive. You give up leather and some convenience tech, but the core driving experience and platform are intact.

These trims are the best route to a new or near-new CX-90 at the lowest price, and they benefit from the second-year software refinement. The cloth or simulated-leather interior is well assembled, and the three-row layout remains practical. For a value-minded family that prioritizes the chassis and engine over luxury extras, a base 2025 Select or Preferred is a sensible, modern choice.

9. 2024 CX-90 Select (Launch Base)

2024 CX-90 Select (Launch Base)

The 2024 Select is the cheapest way into CX-90 ownership and still carries the 280-hp inline-six, standard AWD, and the upscale platform. It lacks higher-trim luxury equipment, but the fundamentals that make the model appealing are present.

Being a launch-year base trim, it is the most likely to be found at a steep used discount. The same advice applies as for all early cars: verify the transmission software updates and any mild-hybrid recalls or service bulletins were addressed. For a buyer chasing the lowest entry price into a modern three-row Mazda, a documented 2024 Select with completed updates is a reasonable budget pick.

10. 2024 CX-90 (Pre-Update / Unserviced Builds — Caution)

2024 CX-90 (Pre-Update / Unserviced Builds — Caution)

The cars to approach carefully are very early 2024 builds that never received Mazda's software updates. Reviewers and owners widely noted low-speed transmission hesitation, occasional jerkiness, and mild-hybrid stop-start roughness on the first cars off the line. Mazda issued software calibrations to improve these behaviors.

An un-updated early example can feel less polished and may indicate deferred dealer service. Before buying any 2024 car, run the VIN for completed campaigns and recalls and take an extended low-speed test drive. The hardware is sound, so a properly updated car is fine, but an unserviced early build is the one configuration to treat with extra scrutiny.

What to Watch For When Buying

The single most important step is to verify the transmission and mild-hybrid software updates were completed, since early 2024 cars were widely noted for low-speed shift hesitation and stop-start roughness that Mazda refined through calibration updates. Run the VIN through Mazda's recall and service-campaign lookup and the NHTSA database before buying.

Confirm software/recall campaigns are closed via VIN, especially on early 2024 builds.
Take a deliberate low-speed test drive to feel how the eight-speed clutch-pack transmission behaves from a stop and in parking maneuvers.
Check the fuel grade the engine needs: the Turbo S (340 hp) requires premium for full output, while the Turbo (280 hp) runs on regular.
For PHEV models, test charging and confirm battery health and electric range.
Inspect for normal new-car wear and verify all driver-assist features function.

How to Choose

Match the CX-90 to your priorities. For the best blend of refinement and performance, choose a 2025 Turbo S with its 340-hp six and second-year software polish. For the smartest everyday value, a 2024 or 2025 3.3 Turbo with the 280-hp regular-fuel engine delivers nearly the same experience for less. Efficiency-focused buyers who can charge at home should look at the PHEV for its electric commuting range. Bargain hunters can target a 2024 Select or Preferred at a used discount, provided the software updates are documented. In every case, favor a car with verified service campaigns and a clean history over the lowest sticker.

FAQ

What are the common issues with the 2024 Mazda CX-90? Early 2024 models had some transmission hesitation at low speeds and software glitches, especially in the infotainment system. Mazda addressed many of these through dealer software updates and a revised transmission calibration carried into the 2025 model year, so a fully updated 2024 drives noticeably smoother than an un-serviced early build.

Which CX-90 powertrain is the most reliable? The 3.3L inline-six turbo (both the 280-hp and 340-hp tunes) has proven more consistent so far, as it is a relatively simple, proven layout. The plug-in hybrid's added battery and dual-mode complexity introduces more potential failure points, though both powertrains are still too new for definitive long-term reliability data.

Is the 2025 CX-90 worth the extra cost over a used 2024? For most buyers, yes — the 2025 benefits from a year of refinements that smooth out the transmission and mild-hybrid behavior, so it feels more polished from the factory. However, a well-maintained 2024 with documented software updates, bought at a discount of several thousand dollars, can be the stronger value if you confirm the campaigns were completed.

How does the CX-90 compare to the older CX-9 it replaced? The CX-90 is a significant step up in driving dynamics and interior quality, thanks to its rear-biased Large Platform, inline-six power, and a plug-in hybrid option the CX-9 never offered. The discontinued CX-9 is cheaper on the used market and still spacious, but it feels less premium, less powerful, and less engaging to drive.

What is the best CX-90 trim for everyday family use? A 3.3 Turbo in Preferred or Premium trim offers the best balance of features and price, and the 280-hp engine runs on regular fuel with plenty of muscle for daily driving and light towing. The Turbo S is overkill for most families unless you regularly tow heavier loads or specifically want the 340-hp performance and premium-fuel running costs.

Should I buy a CX-90 now or wait for a future model year? If you need a three-row SUV now, the 2025 is a solid, refined choice and no major redesign is expected in the immediate near term. Waiting could bring incremental updates, but with only the 2024 and 2025 years on the market today, a fully updated current car is a sound buy rather than a reason to hold off.

Bottom Line

The Mazda CX-90 is the most engaging and upscale three-row SUV Mazda has built, and its short two-year history makes year and variant choice straightforward. The 2025 model year is the best overall pick, refining the launch car's transmission and software, while a 2024 3.3 Turbo offers the best value at a used discount. Favor the regular-fuel 280-hp Turbo for everyday use or the 340-hp Turbo S for performance, and always confirm software campaigns are closed via VIN. Serviced correctly, the CX-90 rewards drivers who want style and dynamics with their family hauler.

graph TD A[Shopping for a CX-90?] --> B{Budget level?} B -->|Higher| C[2025 Turbo S] B -->|Mid| D[2025 / 2024 Turbo] B -->|Value| E[2024 Turbo, used] C --> F{Want efficiency?} F -->|Yes| G[PHEV: ~25 mi electric] F -->|No| H[Inline-six gas] E --> I{Software updated?} I -->|Yes| J[Good buy] I -->|No| K[Caution: low-speed shift] D --> L[Best value: 2024 3.3 Turbo]

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Sources

Mazda USA official CX-90 model specifications and trims, mazdausa.com
NHTSA recall and complaint database for Mazda CX-90, nhtsa.gov
EPA Fuel Economy ratings for Mazda CX-90 by powertrain, fueleconomy.gov
Car and Driver Mazda CX-90 reviews and road tests, caranddriver.com
Edmunds Mazda CX-90 generation reviews and used appraisals, edmunds.com
Kelley Blue Book Mazda CX-90 pricing and values, kbb.com
Wikipedia Mazda CX-90 platform, powertrains, and specifications, en.wikipedia.org

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# Best Mazda CX-90 Model Years (Ranked)

The **Mazda CX-90** is Mazda's flagship three-row SUV, launched for the **2024 model year** to replace the aging CX-9. Built on Mazda's new **rear-biased Large Platform**, it introduced an **inline-six turbocharged engine** and a **plug-in hybrid** option, a major leap upmarket for the brand. Because the CX-90 is so new, its history is short and still unfolding: only the **2024 launch year** and the lightly updated **2025** exist so far. So this ranking really sorts two model years across their **powertrain and trim variants** (Turbo, Turbo S, PHEV), flags the early **transmission and software quirks** worth checking, and shows where the smart used and new-buy value sits today.

## Direct Answer

The **best overall Mazda CX-90 is the 2025 3.3 Turbo S**, which keeps the excellent **3.3L inline-six turbo** and rear-biased dynamics while benefiting from a year of running software and transmission refinements that smoothed out the launch model's low-speed shift hesitation. For shoppers focused on value, the **best value is a 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (mid grade)**, which delivers the same upscale interior and a strong **280-horsepower** six at a meaningful used discount off sticker. The **Turbo S** trims add **340 horsepower** for buyers who want maximum thrust, while the **PHEV** suits those wanting short electric commutes. Because only the 2024 and 2025 years exist, the choice is mostly about variant and condition — verify any early build's transmission software updates before purchase, since that is the model's most-discussed early concern.

*Note: This article ranks real CX-90 model years only (2024 and 2025); the nameplate did not exist before 2024. Used pricing varies by condition and local market.*

```mermaid
flowchart TD
A["2025 CX-90 Turbo S — Best Overall"] --> B["2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo — Best Value"]
B --> C["2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo"]
C --> D["2025 CX-90 PHEV"]
D --> E["2024 CX-90 Turbo S"]
E --> F["2024 CX-90 PHEV"]
```

## 1. 2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S 🏆 BEST OVERALL

![2025 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S](https://di-sitebuilder-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/Mazda/model-pages/2025/CX-90/trim-turbo-s.png)%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=85857)

@@PRODUCT name="2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S" img="https://di-sitebuilder-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/Mazda/model-pages/2025/CX-90/trim-turbo-s.png" site="https://www.modernmazda.com/2025-mazda-cx-90/"

The **2025 CX-90** is the model at its best. Mazda spent the first year addressing the **low-speed shift hesitation** and **mild-hybrid software** behavior that early reviewers flagged, so the **eight-speed automatic** (a clutch-pack design rather than a torque converter) behaves more smoothly. The **3.3L turbocharged inline-six** in **Turbo S** tune makes a strong **340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft** on premium fuel, paired with **standard i-Activ all-wheel drive**.

The cabin is genuinely premium, with available **Nappa leather, real wood, and a 12.3-inch display**. Rear-biased balance gives it the most engaging drive in the three-row class. With a year of refinement behind it, the 2025 is the CX-90 to buy if your budget reaches it.

## 2. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (Mid Grade) 💎 BEST VALUE

![2024 Mazda CX-90 interior dashboard](https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2024%20Mazda%20CX-90%20Turbo%20S%20Premium%20Plus%20Interior%20Dashboard%20Tan%20Leather.jpg)%20%F0%9F%92%8E%20BEST%20VALUE%20Best%20Mazda%20CX-90%20Model%20Years%20(%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=81509)

@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo (Mid Grade)" img="https://platform.cstatic-images.com/in/v2/stock_photos/c57c142d-5cdb-4294-ae3c-dcce217421ba/3121e268-e35f-4425-91e2-02c4c4eea1ec.png" site="https://www.cars.com/shopping/mazda-cx_90-2024-3.3_turbo_preferred_plus/sayreville-nj/"

The **2024 3.3 Turbo** is the value sweet spot. It uses the **lower-output tune of the inline-six**, making **280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft** on regular fuel, which is plenty for a family hauler and avoids the premium-fuel requirement of the Turbo S. As the **launch model year**, used examples now sell at a clear discount off original sticker.

You still get the **same rear-biased Large Platform**, **standard AWD**, and the upscale interior that makes the CX-90 feel a class above its price. **The best value is a Preferred or Premium trim 2024 Turbo**, which bundles leather, a power liftgate, and driver-assist tech. Confirm the transmission software updates were applied and the deal is excellent.

## 3. 2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo

![2025 Mazda CX-90 side profile](https://static0.carbuzzimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/cropped-cx903.JPG)%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=21795)

@@PRODUCT name="2025 CX-90 3.3 Turbo" img="https://di-sitebuilder-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/Mazda/model-pages/2025/CX-90/trim-turbo-select.png" site="https://www.modernmazda.com/2025-mazda-cx-90/"

The **2025 Turbo** combines the most sensible engine with the refined second-year build. The **280-hp inline-six** runs happily on **regular gasoline**, returns roughly **25 mpg combined**, and pulls strongly thanks to the **mild-hybrid 48-volt** assist that smooths stop-start and low-rpm response.

For most families this is the rational pick: you get the **2025's smoother transmission calibration** without paying for the Turbo S's premium-fuel performance. Trims from **Select through Premium Plus** cover a wide price range, and **standard all-wheel drive** plus three rows of seating make it a practical, handsome alternative to a Telluride or Grand Highlander. It is the engine and year combination that ages best.

## 4. 2025 CX-90 PHEV
@@PRODUCT name="2025 CX-90 PHEV" img="https://di-sitebuilder-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/Mazda/model-pages/2025/CX-90+PHEV/2025-cx90-phev-preferred-rhodiumwhite+(1).png" site="https://www.mazda.fusz.com/2025-mazda-cx-90-phev/"

The **2025 CX-90 PHEV** pairs a **2.5L four-cylinder** with an electric motor and a **17.8 kWh battery** for roughly **25 miles of electric range** and a combined output near **323 horsepower**. For drivers with a short commute who can charge at home, it can cover daily trips on electricity and switch to gasoline for road trips, with three-row seating intact.

It qualified for certain **plug-in hybrid incentives** depending on year and state, improving its effective value. The trade-offs are a smaller cargo area beneath the floor and a less characterful engine than the inline-six. Choose the PHEV if **electric commuting and efficiency** outweigh outright smoothness and power.

## 5. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S
@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S" img="https://www.automotiveaddicts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2024-mazda-cx-90-turbo-s-premium-plus.jpg" site="https://theautojournal.com/review/2024-mazda-cx-90-3-3-turbo-s-premium-plus-review-test-drive/"

The **2024 Turbo S** brought the full **340-hp inline-six** to the launch year. It is quick, refined when warm, and sounds terrific for a family SUV. Turbo S and **Turbo S Premium Plus** sit at the top of the lineup with the richest equipment, including **Nappa leather, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera**.

The caveats are the launch-year items: the **low-speed transmission hesitation** and **mild-hybrid software** behavior that Mazda refined for 2025, plus the **premium-fuel requirement** to reach rated output. A well-documented 2024 Turbo S with the latest software updates is a strong performer at a used discount, but verify those updates were completed.

## 6. 2024 CX-90 PHEV
@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 PHEV" img="https://images.inkl.com/s3/article/lead_image/20131768/2024-mazda-cx-90-phev-review.jpg" site="https://www.inkl.com/news/the-2024-mazda-cx-90-phev-is-all-about-give-and-take"

The **2024 PHEV** introduced Mazda's plug-in three-row, using the **2.5L four plus electric motor** for around **323 combined horsepower** and roughly **25 miles of electric range**. As the launch PHEV, it shares the lineup's early software refinement timeline, so confirm updates were applied.

It remains a sensible buy for **home-charging commuters** who want to minimize gasoline use without giving up three rows. Some early owners noted the **transition between electric and gas modes** felt less seamless than rivals, an area improved over time. Priced used below a comparable RAV4 Prime or Sorento PHEV in many markets, the 2024 PHEV can be a smart efficiency-focused value for the right driver.

## 7. 2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus
@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus" img="https://cdn-ds.com/chrome/2024-Mazda-CX-90-3-3-Turbo-Premium-Plus-AWD-Lodi-NJ/seo/MzI0ODgwXk1lZGlhIEdhbGxlcnk/sEFc8pzWrvqQOD1SJVofAdmw1vWdGEuWD7OYBdMSYzzEEd3jbs_t3vhNTqgVvDRym8IxgIKcwo_-e51yAOq8GAoeU61Ye_0ipZnbr7DbWTNjZ1KfuvaP9olUn6ObWck4Xz6rPcvshf48lNVCaIap_UAHzZxSCK_QsxJRm8IngvDWiMVh4RQn31rgvO_XMZS7xvvZkbLgqJU/cc_2024MAS110061_01_1280_51F.jpg" site="https://www.mazdaoflodi.com/vehicle-details/new-2024-mazda-cx-90-3-3-turbo-premium-plus-lodi-nj-id-51743879"

The **Turbo Premium Plus** trim of the **2024** car packages the **280-hp inline-six** with near-top-tier luxury features, including **ventilated front seats, a Bose audio system, and second-row captain's chairs** on some configurations. It delivers most of the cabin richness of a Turbo S while keeping the **regular-fuel engine** and lower running costs.

For a buyer who wants the **loaded interior experience** without the premium-fuel Turbo S, this is the trim to target. As with all 2024 cars, confirm the **transmission and mild-hybrid software** were updated. The combination of a relaxed engine, full equipment, and a used discount makes a clean Premium Plus an appealing family flagship.

## 8. 2025 CX-90 Select / Preferred (Base Engine Trims)
@@PRODUCT name="2025 CX-90 Select / Preferred (Base Engine Trims)" img="https://platform.cstatic-images.com/in/v2/stock_photos/b447643f-da1a-44c8-b206-af9710a43ad3/d2466498-d30d-4769-b90e-e37d0d823cae.png" site="https://www.cars.com/research/mazda-cx_90-2025/trims/"

The **entry 2025 trims** still use the **3.3L inline-six** in **280-hp form**, so even the most affordable CX-90 gets the standout engine and **standard all-wheel drive**. You give up leather and some convenience tech, but the core **driving experience and platform** are intact.

These trims are the best route to a **new or near-new CX-90 at the lowest price**, and they benefit from the **second-year software refinement**. The cloth or simulated-leather interior is well assembled, and the three-row layout remains practical. For a value-minded family that prioritizes the chassis and engine over luxury extras, a base 2025 Select or Preferred is a sensible, modern choice.

## 9. 2024 CX-90 Select (Launch Base)
@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 Select (Launch Base)" img="https://images-stag.jazelc.com/uploads/theautopian-m2en/cx-90-select.jpg" site="https://www.theautopian.com/the-inline-six-2024-mazda-cx-90-somehow-has-11-trim-levels-we-broke-them-down-for-you/"

The **2024 Select** is the cheapest way into CX-90 ownership and still carries the **280-hp inline-six**, **standard AWD**, and the upscale platform. It lacks higher-trim luxury equipment, but the fundamentals that make the model appealing are present.

Being a **launch-year base trim**, it is the most likely to be found at a steep used discount. The same advice applies as for all early cars: verify the **transmission software updates** and any **mild-hybrid recalls or service bulletins** were addressed. For a buyer chasing the lowest entry price into a modern three-row Mazda, a documented 2024 Select with completed updates is a reasonable budget pick.

## 10. 2024 CX-90 (Pre-Update / Unserviced Builds — Caution)
@@PRODUCT name="2024 CX-90 (Pre-Update / Unserviced Builds — Caution)" img="https://static1.topspeedimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mazda-cx-90-phev-3.jpg" site="https://www.topspeed.com/mazdas-cx-90-is-quietly-becoming-a-sales-star/"

The cars to approach carefully are **very early 2024 builds that never received Mazda's software updates**. Reviewers and owners widely noted **low-speed transmission hesitation, occasional jerkiness, and mild-hybrid stop-start roughness** on the first cars off the line. Mazda issued **software calibrations** to improve these behaviors.

An un-updated early example can feel less polished and may indicate **deferred dealer service**. Before buying any 2024 car, **run the VIN for completed campaigns and recalls** and take an extended low-speed test drive. The hardware is sound, so a properly updated car is fine, but an unserviced early build is the one configuration to treat with extra scrutiny.

```mermaid
graph TD
    A[Shopping for a CX-90?] --> B{Budget level?}
    B -->|Higher| C[2025 Turbo S]
    B -->|Mid| D[2025 / 2024 Turbo]
    B -->|Value| E[2024 Turbo, used]
    C --> F{Want efficiency?}
    F -->|Yes| G[PHEV: ~25 mi electric]
    F -->|No| H[Inline-six gas]
    E --> I{Software updated?}
    I -->|Yes| J[Good buy]
    I -->|No| K[Caution: low-speed shift]
    D --> L[Best value: 2024 3.3 Turbo]
```

## What to Watch For When Buying

The single most important step is to **verify the transmission and mild-hybrid software updates** were completed, since early 2024 cars were widely noted for **low-speed shift hesitation** and **stop-start roughness** that Mazda refined through calibration updates. Run the VIN through **Mazda's recall and service-campaign lookup** and the **NHTSA database** before buying.

- **Confirm software/recall campaigns are closed** via VIN, especially on early 2024 builds.
- **Take a deliberate low-speed test drive** to feel how the eight-speed clutch-pack transmission behaves from a stop and in parking maneuvers.
- **Check the fuel grade** the engine needs: the **Turbo S (340 hp)** requires premium for full output, while the **Turbo (280 hp)** runs on regular.
- **For PHEV models, test charging** and confirm battery health and electric range.
- **Inspect for normal new-car wear** and verify all driver-assist features function.

## How to Choose

Match the CX-90 to your priorities. For the **best blend of refinement and performance**, choose a **2025 Turbo S** with its 340-hp six and second-year software polish. For the **smartest everyday value**, a **2024 or 2025 3.3 Turbo** with the 280-hp regular-fuel engine delivers nearly the same experience for less. Efficiency-focused buyers who can charge at home should look at the **PHEV** for its electric commuting range. Bargain hunters can target a **2024 Select or Preferred** at a used discount, provided the software updates are documented. In every case, favor a car with **verified service campaigns** and a clean history over the lowest sticker.

## FAQ

**What are the common issues with the 2024 Mazda CX-90?**  
Early 2024 models had some transmission hesitation at low speeds and software glitches, especially in the infotainment system. Mazda addressed many of these through dealer software updates and a revised transmission calibration carried into the 2025 model year, so a fully updated 2024 drives noticeably smoother than an un-serviced early build.

**Which CX-90 powertrain is the most reliable?**  
The 3.3L inline-six turbo (both the 280-hp and 340-hp tunes) has proven more consistent so far, as it is a relatively simple, proven layout. The plug-in hybrid's added battery and dual-mode complexity introduces more potential failure points, though both powertrains are still too new for definitive long-term reliability data.

**Is the 2025 CX-90 worth the extra cost over a used 2024?**  
For most buyers, yes — the 2025 benefits from a year of refinements that smooth out the transmission and mild-hybrid behavior, so it feels more polished from the factory. However, a well-maintained 2024 with documented software updates, bought at a discount of several thousand dollars, can be the stronger value if you confirm the campaigns were completed.

**How does the CX-90 compare to the older CX-9 it replaced?**  
The CX-90 is a significant step up in driving dynamics and interior quality, thanks to its rear-biased Large Platform, inline-six power, and a plug-in hybrid option the CX-9 never offered. The discontinued CX-9 is cheaper on the used market and still spacious, but it feels less premium, less powerful, and less engaging to drive.

**What is the best CX-90 trim for everyday family use?**  
A 3.3 Turbo in Preferred or Premium trim offers the best balance of features and price, and the 280-hp engine runs on regular fuel with plenty of muscle for daily driving and light towing. The Turbo S is overkill for most families unless you regularly tow heavier loads or specifically want the 340-hp performance and premium-fuel running costs.

**Should I buy a CX-90 now or wait for a future model year?**  
If you need a three-row SUV now, the 2025 is a solid, refined choice and no major redesign is expected in the immediate near term. Waiting could bring incremental updates, but with only the 2024 and 2025 years on the market today, a fully updated current car is a sound buy rather than a reason to hold off.

## Bottom Line

The **Mazda CX-90** is the most engaging and upscale three-row SUV Mazda has built, and its short two-year history makes year and variant choice straightforward. The **2025 model year is the best overall pick**, refining the launch car's transmission and software, while a **2024 3.3 Turbo offers the best value** at a used discount. Favor the **regular-fuel 280-hp Turbo** for everyday use or the **340-hp Turbo S** for performance, and always confirm software campaigns are closed via VIN. Serviced correctly, the CX-90 rewards drivers who want style and dynamics with their family hauler.

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## Sources

- Mazda USA official CX-90 model specifications and trims, mazdausa.com
- NHTSA recall and complaint database for Mazda CX-90, nhtsa.gov
- EPA Fuel Economy ratings for Mazda CX-90 by powertrain, fueleconomy.gov
- Car and Driver Mazda CX-90 reviews and road tests, caranddriver.com
- Edmunds Mazda CX-90 generation reviews and used appraisals, edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book Mazda CX-90 pricing and values, kbb.com
- Wikipedia Mazda CX-90 platform, powertrains, and specifications, en.wikipedia.org

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