Trying To Fill In The Blanks | 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S - FULL REVIEW

What was meant to be the next Mazda6 became Mazda's First-Ever 2024 Mazda CX-90, and we test it for a full week to see if our first experience driving it was isolated. After Testing 3 separate vehicles we have determined that the CX-90 has a kink in its driveline armor.
This is the United States first vehicle on Mazda's all new large platform which allows for a wider body and longer wheelbase.
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TEXAS TRUCK CHANNEL: @TexasTruckChannel
TTC CARS:@ttc_cars
Powertrains:
e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo engine
340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
M-Hybrid Boost (a mild-hybrid system)
e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain
323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
PHEV powertrain, tuned specifically for the North American
market
Both engines use a brand new 8 speed automatic which is fully developed and produced in house.
Welcome to the KZbin show where we rate vehicles on our Hipster Scale and give insight on "Who is this car for?" As well as give our thoughts on Interior, Exterior, Powertrain and Dynamics.
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Chapters:
0:00 | MPG
0:16 | Intro
0:29 | Exterior
5:16 | Interior
9:29 | 0-60 Test
10:29 | Inline 6 Vibration / Clunky Shifts
14:52 | CX-90 Handling
#cx90 #mazda #inline6 #suv #texas #review #new

[@chiluco2000]

I like your direct honest style. We appreciate you reporting this transmission/drive-train problem. I think the way Mazda resolves this issue will help trust more (hopefully) in this new architecture.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thanks, and just so we are clear, we are not ragging on Mazda purposefully. This is not the review we were hoping for. That being said, we understand that first year cars of any type using new tech are sure to have some hiccups. We trust that Mazda will get it sorted.

[@cmdrdarwin3682]

@@TexasTruckChannel- I also appreciate you pointing this out. I’m frustrated with my 2016 Lexus RX with poor fuel economy (nowhere near sticker), fussy infotainment & poor fit & finish. I’ll wait for the 2024 CX-90. Thanks for a terrific review!😎

[@cachegrk]

One of the channel that reviews what matters. Thanks for heads up regarding the transmission problem.

[@djmoomi]

I test drove the CX90 and noticed the same driving impressions which you have highlighted. Thank you for giving an honest review

[@OtisSpringerpilot]

Hi guys, THANKS for a great, in-depth review. I an an early-owner of the same CX-90 you tested here. I bought it in Atlanta, GA on March 31st, 2023 and took delivery the next day. I have 1,300 miles on my Turbo S Prem Plus (Tan napa leather interior) and I have NOT seen, felt, or experienced any of the driveline issues you have encountered. Strange, I guess. I have run 3 full tanks of premium (93 octane here in GA) thru this engine / tranny. I have cruised at 80mph for hours, run twisties around N GA mountains, and normal city driving. I have wrung it out (6,000rpm) in Normal and Sport mode (I have not selected Off-Road yet). The 8spd has an abrupt, positive (sporty?) shift from 1-2 and 2-3 and it becomes imperceptible and smooth for 4,5,6,7, and8. I LOVE the torque of this new inline6 and the gas mileage is actually a bit better than the window sticker! Always 24+ and my 200 mile round trip hiway drive showed 30.5, wow! The ONLY 'weirdness' I can say about the 48V motor's integration thru the tranny, is that from 0-3mph the elec motor seems to integrate 'fair' to get the truck moving prior to the engine being in full control....I wish this "starting from a stop" was better integrated (maybe a software update later), but I can erase even THIS little annoyance by moving out from a stop a little quicker or "more positively" (for instance, not creeping like a grandma). Overall I am SO happy that I am NOT experiencing the issues you 2 have identified: (harmonics and vibration) under acceleration...and for anyone considering purchase...just go drive one like these guys and see IF you sense the same issue. I do not have this issue. FAST and FUN and FRUGAL to drive. I like this CX-90 VERY much.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Hi Otis, we are glad to hear that yours is doing great! We were hoping that our experience was not everyone's experience. The MPG is no joke here, and the handling is top notch. Enjoy the north Georgia mountains, its beautiful up there!

[@MikeATL-]

We bought our Turbo S Premium Plus, Artisan Red Metallic, White Premium Leather just over a month ago also in Atlanta, GA. 12 miles on the odometer when we first test drove it and now it has just over 1K miles. No regrets yet, even with some new model teething issues. Driver side BSM would false alert randomly sometimes, little roughness in the drivetrain during low speed at times. More vibration than expected even on relative smooth freeways at 80mph. I would notice the driver side mirror vibrate and see the 2nd row captain's seats vibrate quite a bit in my rear view mirror. Doesn't feel the vibration in the steering wheel, so it may not be the wheel/tire balance issue. We have been driving very gentle during it's first 1K miles. Couple days ago I finally did a full accelerated run and noticed drive line noise and vibration some where in the rear axle area, which does concern me some. This is our first Mazda ever, and I'm hoping they will be able to address some of these issue I'm seeing.

[@OtisSpringerpilot]

@@MikeATL- ....OK its been 5 more months since you posted this reply to my comment. Hope you still like and enjoy your CX-90 turbo s pp. We now have 6,500 miles on ours and it is problem free. We still love the tech, memory features, AND the big glass pano roof. Since you have the white interior, you also have the BETTER real woodgrain and BETTER chrome interior accents over my Tan Napa interior and dark wood (looks like plastic....but Mazda assures me it is real wood). We still feel our lost CX-9 signature had slightly better interior comfort (and better color) as well as top-notch real wood accents. Still this new CX-90 is 6 years newer and brings many advanced features with it. Driving is still smooth and spirited and more power with better gas mileage! After 1 full year using only premium fuel, we will begin using regular unleaded...since there is no loss in torque we feel we will not notice the drop in horsepower from 340hp down to 319hp...and we will enjoy the cost savings.

[@tjsullivan4793]

I sure we all truly appreciate your candid review of new Mazda. Your honesty and transparency can not be overstated. I subscribed after watching a different review on the new Pilot. You both have a good rapport with each other during your reviews. Keep up the great work.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Hi Tj, we greatly appreciate your feedback, and subscription. Thanks for watching b

[@soheilmortezaeifar8125]

Amazing review. Thanks for your honest toughts specially about the transmission shake and electric motor noises. Your really protecting consumers.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thanks! We appreciate you watching.

[@vishaldev13]

Appreciate the honest and objective review, keeping emotions on the side. Very helpful.

[@sheldonduffy9442]

Mazda has some software updates for the transmission. After the updates people are saying it is buttery smooth after the update.

[@rdm925]

Thanks, for the continuing reviews and talk about the vibration issues. My family and I have been driving Mazda's for about 20+ years now and We've been very happy with them. Currently drive a 2019 CX-5 Signature and it's been trouble free for over 67,000 miles. I'm not into the big straight 6 models and further move to premium or luxury status, but I wish them well. I'm sure Mazda will work out the transmission issues.

[@riderNdriver]

great genuine time and effort taken review. Good job guys

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thanks, we care a lot about Mazda and wanted to make sure we got it right.

[@nenigma1]

Honesty =Rare. Thank You

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thank you for watching, not everyone appreciates honesty.

[@gibber1944]

Love and appreciate the honesty. Looking at your other vids.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thanks for checking us out. We appreciate it.

[@ec6933]

Man this guy can review a car I don't even care about these mom mobiles but he takes the gloves off and goes technical! Subscribing!

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Thanks! We test them all the same on purpose!

[@mikeboot7409]

I own one. And drive 2000km to Florida. Here the hwy is advertised as 8.5lper 100 hwy. I averaged 8.3 and half the trip was terrible wind. Usually it's more like 8.l per 100 incredible for the HP and size of vehicle

[@rafalpgresiak629]

Love my Mazda

[@slscamg]

The 0-60 is frustratingly slow for a turbo I6 with a mild hybrid. I think getting rid of the torque converter and relying on the electric motor for the few few mpg handicaps the acceleration

[@Stinger430]

That platform was supposed to be a Mazda 6?!? I'm so gutted. Great review guys. First I've heard about the lack of smoothness.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

We were too! So was the Mazda team. There was and is a lot of love for the 6.

[@ohrandyrandy]

Apparently, their top trim powertrain came out the Mazda oven too early. I heard the performance was hokey also. I even heard the hybrid performed much better. Wow!

[@jstrig]

Performance isn't hokey at all. It pulls well from a roll

[@francisgallozzi2595]

You forgot to mention the amazing turning circle.

[@ericschmitz357]

TTC: Thank you for your transparency in sharing your experience with three CX90 S samples. Isolated? I think not. I received a reply from another highly regarded reviewer of the CX90 S who described a similar vibration/resonance issue under hard acceleration between 4000 and 4500 rpm which he attributed (theorized) to originate from either the transmission or rear dif since he felt it sounded to him like it came more from the back of the drivetrain rather than the engine. He described it as most pronounced under hard acceleration in 3rd gear between 4000 and 4500 rpm...I would be interested in what the Mazda engineers shared with you guys...also wonder if some of the CX90 S models that were scheduled to be shipped have been delayed for this reason...do you have any information?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Hi Eric, I do not have any information regarding delayed CX90 S models, now a days that could be for many reasons. While I am glad we are not the only ones coming to this conclusion, I am hopeful that it will get resolved, and that not all units are effected. Mazda takes quality seriously and this will be resolved.

[@josefernandez2722]

Thanks for all the fine details guys. So when you say you are sure Mazda will fix these issues, does that mean even if we buy this 1st gen cx90 and have these problems that Mazda will bring it up to speed or does this mean stay away for now? Because if I need a vehicle now, waiting for 2 more years doesn't solve my problem.

[@paulira7407]

This might be my 40th video review of the CX-90 that I’ve watched because I’ve been debating on whether I will be buying the upcoming CX-70 PHEV model or the CX-70 Turbo S model when both are released late this year. I think I’m leaning towards what the Straightpipes duo were thinking and going with the PHEV model AND waiting until the next model year (2025 vs 2024) for Mazda to work out the kinks with the new tranny.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Jakub and Yuri are awesome, we are aligned on this one. Thanks for stopping by.

[@GooseVan]

I'm on the same boat, one thing for sure I'm not going with first model year when everything is new.

[@paulira7407]

@@TexasTruckChannel I’m a fan of smooth inline-6 engines, but Jakub and Yuri mentioned at the end of their video because of the totality of the CX-90’s size and purpose, the PHEV model might be the one to get because the inline-6 isn’t that exotic enough and is paired to more of a “cruiser” than to a sporty vehicle.

[@paulira7407]

@@GooseVan I usually agree with that, but I went with the all-new 2021 Rav4 Prime in 2021 because after doing my due diligence researching the vehicle, Toyota’s history with hybrid technology and their reliable transmissions was enough to sway me to buy a Prime. So far it’s been trouble-free as my daily driver.

[@GooseVan]

@@paulira7407 I mean the CX-90, new platform, new engine, new transmission. I have first model year Cayenne and it's trouble free after couple software update. The platform was used on other VW group for couple years before Porsche.

[@josefernandez2722]

A thought came to mind. If I wait for the cx70 late in the year, would that be like getting a 2nd year model since this has already been out as a 2023 CX-60 in Europe? Wouldn't that help get the kinks out for the CX-70?

[@francisgallozzi2595]

Artisan Red with the Windsor Tan Nappa Leather Interior is the only way to get the 2-tone steering wheel. This would be my spec.

[@francisgallozzi2595]

2 things I didn't like: brakes were too sensitive (PHEV was so much better), slight delay during acceleration even with hard press on the gas pedal.

[@g.p.courtney8536]

I’ve watched at least a dozen CX-90 reviews. I found your review to be of great interest for a couple of reasons, particularly the discussion and description of some of the mechanics of the drive-train. So now I’m your newest subscriber. I’m not interested in the CX-90 per-sey, I am however interested in the upcoming CX-70 which I expect will use the same engine and technology. Which brings me to my question for you guys; …. Because the CX-70 will be very, very similar to the CX-90, do you believe that the “first-year” bugs will be worked out when the CX-70 production begins? Thanks for your opinion.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

First of all, thank you for watching and subscribing to our little corner of KZbin. In answer to your question, yes we are told that the CX70 will share powertrains, and we do believe that the kinks will be worked out by then. Mazda is not one to rest on its laurels, and they truly care about how their products drive and function. Their passion alone will insure a solution.

[@tomolesnevich9169]

you guys have mentioned this vibration/something being off/not just right, but haven't been able to get in on camera yet (that i've seen - if they have, someone please point me in the right direction)?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Hi Tom, it’s hard to get the floor board vibration on camera. It’s something you feel in you feet, not with your eyes. We did include 0-60 times that reflect the performance issue. And we pointed it out while driving since the camera would not pick it up.

[@michaelkovalsky4907]

iirc, in house can be touch screen. Just have to turn a setting on. At least that's if my recollection of a different review video is correct

[@ShibaCX90]

Are you doing a full review of the PHEV?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Absolutely as soon as it is available. Looking forward to it.

[@UASheva]

I think with the first year production you will have these issues

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Absolutely right, it will get sorted!

[@michaelkemp343]

When do you plan to upload the PHEV Full Review? Is that engine also brand new for the PHEV or does it borrow from one of the existing Mazdas? Thanks!

[@TexasTruckChannel]

As soon as we get it on a week loan. There is currently not one available in our area. We will let you know! As far as it’s engine goes, it is an existing non turbo 2.5 4cyl, and it’s excellent in our experience.

[@HelloHello-yb1rl]

Went to see in person. Didn't need all the options only some, sought mid tier only to find out the styling is completely hideous in all but the top trime due to missing chrome accents

[@locosmiley2008]

For 60k they better have no issues

[@dalepritchard3335]

So I wonder how the non turbo inline six & transmission work together? Hopefully smooth.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Both in-line 6 engines are turbo charged, and are mechanically the same. The phev is a 2.5 non turbo paired with a larger EV motor. We had no issues with the PHEV, it was impressive.

[@dalepritchard3335]

@@TexasTruckChannel thanks for the feedback.

[@lp8969]

Is the powertrain issue resolved if you disable the 'i' assist feature? Is that even an option?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Disabling I assist did not resolve the issue.

[@batgele2796]

I only saw normal, sport, offroad on this turbo s premium plus. I thought it’s supposed to have tow mode as well. Did they mess this up?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

It does have tow mode, but there is not a toggle switch for it. Once the trailer lights are plugged in it is automatically available. Also, I don’t believe this test unit had the tow package.

[@batgele2796]

@@TexasTruckChannel thank you!

[@fx3650]

Never buy new model new engine new transmission for sure. Thank you for the in death review.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

You bet, thanks for watching.

[@justindhillon8887]

Any off-road videos coming?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Yes, we have our off road video as well as a technical break down on the cx90. Stay tuned!

[@batgele2796]

i’m still waiting for my cx-90 - identical to what you tested but im starting to get concerned about this harmonic imbalance. now that i know it exists i’m sure that i will notice it and be annoyed. thank you for the honest review.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

You bet, and keep an eye out for it. Fingers crossed it is a limited issue. All this said, we have faith that Mazda will sort it out. They have excellent follow through.

[@ohrandyrandy]

You pressed the button too fast, lol. The Turbo S has some serious issues. The hybrid however got a thumbs up.

[@Sotrue816]

Hey guys have you noticed this issue on the base engine?

[@TexasTruckChannel]

We have yet to drive the non turbo s model. Mechanically they are identical, but we are not aware of any issues on the 280 hp units, not first hand.

[@Chris-gj7uy]

12:30 | it’s a dual wet clutch, not single clutch.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

It is not a dual clutch. Single wet clutch.

[@Chris-gj7uy]

@@TexasTruckChannel it's structured like this: inline6 > wet clutch > electric motor > wet clutch

[@xxxpensive1415]

Wow this must be very concerning to mazda

[@nandernugget]

Not hugely. It’s a brand new platform + engine, and their first fully in house hybrid system. With this many firsts, a problem was bound to happen. Like these reviewers, hopefully customers who may face problems should report it to Mazda so they can fix and dial in the chassis and improve it.

[@xsej4223]

Too bad,, the car they reviewed has a defect.. mine drives smooth .

[@soheilmortezaeifar8125]

Mazda is great, but unfortunately they have never been able to make a good responsive transmission. I have two Mazda and was thinking to get CX 90, but it seems it's time to go with another brand😢

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Big sad. Maybe give them a year if you have the time to sort it. I promise they won’t ignore it.

[@beri232]

I own a 2022 RX350 and test drove a new CX90 yesterday. It's a huge step up interior-wise for Mazda but to those that are comparing it to the Europeans.... you are delusional! The power is great but it rides rough and there's way more road noise. They aren't even using double-laminate glass (sound deadening). Again, a nice step up for Mazda but this is in no way, shape or form at the same level as a luxury automaker...... or a Lexus for that matter.

[@mbenton6]

Stop hating

[@beri232]

@@mbenton6 I also own a 2016 Mazda CX-5 GT. I am most certainly not hating. Lol

[@GooseVan]

I own 1 X5, 2 X6 and currently Cayenne. The CX-90 isn't as refined for sure but ride isn't rough at all, I purposefully drive it over bad pavement, the suspension handles it really well without any rattle. As for road noise, not as quiet but acceptable, at least much better than other Mazda models, I have a Mazda 3 as well.

[@mbenton6]

@@beri232 cx5 and cx90 huge difference

[@beri232]

@@mbenton6 really? Lol

[@StockIndexFuturesALGO]

You guys are the only ones experiencing this issue.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

We are the only ones reporting this issue.

[@mvnorsel6354]

21" wheels, style before function😅.

[@TexasTruckChannel]

The designers won!

[@ec6933]

This feels like an ad for Mazda lol not that their claims don't seem to be pretty accurate and rwd drive bias is awesome

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Identifying mechanical issues are not what makes a Mazda ad. Trust me we were wanting to report positivity regarding powertrain.

[@ernestogalvan143]

I find it amusing when chunky guys complain about room in the seats. Lose some weight and you will be more comfortable

[@TexasTruckChannel]

Good thing we have chunky and normal build types represented here, we cover it all. We also have patience for those with cacomorphobia. Thanks for watching.

[@ernestogalvan143]

@@TexasTruckChannel whether it you or your partner , America is obese. That why we get special size editions of cars. Lucky us.