I thoroughly enjoyed my week with the Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus, an all-wheel-drive powerhouse that provided an exceptional driving experience. My exploration of the Washington DC metropolitan area, including the Washington Beltway, northern Virginia, and inner-city DC, showcased the CX-90’s versatility. I embarked on a scenic journey going west on I-270 through Appalachia in western Maryland, past Hagerstown, and into the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, eventually reaching Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, home to our startup focused on gamified STEAM education.
I had the unique opportunity to interview the product manager of the CX-90, delving into Mazda’s visionary approach to creating a luxury brand in the 90s, with the CX-90 embodying the culmination of that grand vision. We are also able to feature our interview in our videogame Dah-Varsity and teach students how they can begin a pathway to careers in the automotive industry.
The model I drove featured NAPA leather seats, boasting impeccable fit and finish that rivals any luxury SUV. With the ability to comfortably seat seven adults, I spent quality time with my brother and son, enjoying the spacious cabin enhanced by the panoramic roof. The tan interior, complemented by the rhodium white exterior paint, created a visually stunning and luxurious atmosphere.
Safety technology in the CX-90 is comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, contributing to an overall secure driving experience. Under the hood, the 3.3-liter turbo inline-6 engine produces an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, complemented by an e-hybrid system for added power. The powertrain is mated to a responsive Skyactiv 6-speed automatic transmission. The exterior features 21-inch alloy wheels and a striking, broad, aggressive grille design.
Inside, the CX-90 offers a plethora of features, including paddle shifters, heated and cooled seats, and a 12.3-inch telematics system seamlessly integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sound system, exemplified by the incredible Bose sound system, provided a crisp and immersive audio experience. I even enjoyed playing the soundtrack to our video game, Dah-Varsity: Origins of Superhero Rap, created with the music department at Carnegie Mellon.
The base price for the Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus package is $59,950. The only additional option on the model I drove was the rhodium white paint, bringing the delivered price to $61,920. While the Mazda CX-90 is assembled in Japan, it’s worth noting that it is not in Hiroshima but at the Hofu plant. For more information, visit www.MazdaUSA.com