Introduction: Mazda’s Premium Push
Mazda has spent the last few years transitioning from a mainstream Japanese automaker into a genuine premium contender. Nowhere is this ambition more evident than in the 2025 Mazda CX-90. As the brand's flagship three-row crossover, the CX-90 rides on a rear-wheel-drive-biased platform, utilizes a silky-smooth turbocharged inline-six engine, and features an interior that easily rivals luxury brands like Acura, Lexus, and even Volvo.
However, with over a dozen trim levels spread across three distinct powertrains—the standard 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo S, and the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)—choosing the right CX-90 can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we will break down the best 2025 Mazda CX-90 models, evaluate their real-world value, and help you decide which one deserves a spot in your driveway.
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Understanding the Three Powertrains
Before diving into specific trims, you must choose what's under the hood. Mazda offers three distinct engines for the 2025 CX-90:
1. 3.3 Turbo (Standard Output): A 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular unleaded fuel. 2. 3.3 Turbo S (High Output): The same inline-six engine, but tuned to pump out 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (when using premium fuel). 3. PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid): A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery pack, delivering a combined 323 horsepower and 26 miles of pure electric driving range.
All models come standard with an excellent rear-biased i-Activ AWD system and a crisp 8-speed automatic transmission.
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The Top 2025 Mazda CX-90 Models to Buy
To make your decision easier, we have selected the four standout trims that offer the best balance of features, performance, and price.
1. The Budget Champion: Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select
* Approximate Price: $39,300 * Best For: Families seeking maximum space, safety, and style on a budget.If you want the presence and driving dynamics of a premium three-row SUV without crossing the $40,000 threshold, the base Turbo Select is an absolute steal. Unlike many base-model SUVs that feel stripped down, the CX-90 Select comes generously equipped.
You get standard synthetic leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 19-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mazda’s full suite of i-Activesense safety features (including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring) is also standard. It drives just as quietly and smoothly as the more expensive trims, making it the smartest financial play in the lineup.
2. The Smart Money Sweet Spot: Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus
* Approximate Price: $50,400 * Best For: Tech-savvy buyers looking for near-luxury features at a mainstream price.If your budget stretches a bit further, the 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus is the absolute sweet spot of the entire CX-90 lineup. This trim elevates the cabin experience to a level that will make BMW and Audi owners double-check the badge on your steering wheel.
Step up to the Premium Plus, and you are treated to buttery-soft Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and a heated steering wheel. On the tech front, it upgrades the central screen to a larger 12.3-inch display with wireless smartphone integration, adds a gorgeous 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, and includes a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system. It also features a 360-degree view monitor, which is incredibly helpful for parking this large SUV in tight suburban spots.
3. The Eco-Conscious Commuter: Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium
* Approximate Price: $54,900 * Best For: Drivers with short daily commutes who want to slash their fuel bills.The PHEV Premium is a compelling option for those looking to transition toward electrification without the range anxiety of a full EV. With 26 miles of all-electric range, the average American can complete their daily commute and school runs without burning a single drop of gasoline.
When the battery depletes, the CX-90 seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, averaging a solid 25 mpg combined. The PHEV Premium trim comes highly equipped with 21-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free power liftgate, and wireless phone charging. It also boasts a 5,000-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped), proving that eco-friendly doesn't mean compromise.
4. The No-Compromise Luxury Cruiser: Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus
* Approximate Price: $57,950 * Best For: Enthusiasts who want maximum performance and top-tier luxury.If you want the absolute best that Mazda has to offer, the Turbo S Premium Plus is the crown jewel. By unlocking the high-output version of the inline-six engine, this model sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just under 6 seconds—accompanied by a glorious, sporty exhaust note reminiscent of a sports sedan.
This top-tier trim features exclusive interior options, including quilted Nappa leather, genuine maple wood trim, and a suede-wrapped dashboard. It also features ventilated second-row seats, a massive head-up display (Active Driving Display), and upgraded adaptive front lighting. While creeping close to $60,000, it easily competes with luxury SUVs costing $15,000 to $20,000 more.
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Interior Tech and Family Practicality
No matter which trim you choose, the CX-90 is a masterclass in interior design. Mazda’s layout is highly tactile, retaining physical buttons for climate control and heated seats rather than burying them in touch menus.
However, there is one important caveat for families: interior space. While the front and second rows are incredibly spacious and comfortable, the third row is tighter than competitors like the Kia Telluride or Toyota Grand Highlander. If you plan on carrying adults in the third row daily, you may find the legroom a bit cramped. But for younger children or occasional use, it is perfectly adequate, leaving a respectable 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row (which expands to 74.2 cubic feet with all seats folded flat).
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Our Verdict: Which CX-90 Should You Buy?
While every 2025 Mazda CX-90 model offers a premium driving experience, two specific trims stand out as the best buys for most consumers:
* Buy the 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus ($50,400) if you want the ultimate luxury experience. It packs Nappa leather, high-end Bose audio, advanced safety tech, and a smooth inline-six engine into a package that undercuts European luxury rivals by tens of thousands of dollars. * Buy the PHEV Premium ($54,900) if you have a garage plug and a short daily commute. The ability to drive on pure electricity during the week while retaining a gas engine for weekend road trips offers the best of both worlds.
Mazda has built a stunning, athletic, and genuinely premium family hauler. Whichever trim you choose, you will be getting one of the most stylish and rewarding three-row SUVs on the market today.