2024 Mazda CX-90 _ Mixed Feelings

**A Detailed Review of the Mazda CX-90: A Unique Driving Experience**

As I sat down to write this review, I couldn't help but think about the immense amount of time and effort that went into creating the Mazda CX-90. It's a vehicle that's been months in the making, and one that's left me with a sense of intrigue and curiosity. As someone who's always been passionate about cars, I was excited to get behind the wheel of this three-row SUV and see what it had to offer.

**A Mixed Bag: The CX-90's Driving Experience**

As I drove the CX-90, I couldn't help but feel a sense of mixed emotions. On one hand, I was impressed by Mazda's commitment to creating a driving experience that's both unique and engaging. They've clearly taken a different approach to designing this vehicle, one that prioritizes driving enjoyment over sheer comfort and practicality. This is evident in the way the car handles, which feels more agile and responsive than many of its competitors.

**The Pilot: A Front-Wheel Drive Powerhouse**

One of the cars I tested alongside the CX-90 was the Toyota Pilot, a front-wheel drive SUV that's been around for years. Despite its architecture, the Pilot still manages to ride softly and feel nimble under most driving conditions. This is no doubt due to its clever torque vectoring rear differential, which helps to improve traction and stability. However, as I drove both cars, I couldn't help but feel that the CX-90's approach was more effective in terms of providing a sense of engagement and connection.

**The MDX: A Comparable Alternative**

Another car I tested was the Honda MDX, a vehicle that shares many similarities with the CX-90. Both SUVs are designed for comfort and practicality, with a focus on hauling and towing. However, as I drove both cars, I couldn't help but feel that the MDX was slightly more impressive in terms of its overall driving experience. The MDX's smooth transmission and responsive steering made it feel like a joy to drive, even if it didn't quite match the CX-90's sense of engagement.

**The Inline 6: A Performance Version with a Few Quirks**

One of the most interesting aspects of the CX-90 is its inline 6 performance version, which I had the chance to test. This car is clearly built for speed and performance, with a powerful engine that delivers impressive acceleration and responsiveness. However, as I drove it, I couldn't help but notice a few quirks that detracted from the overall experience. Specifically, there was an excessive amount of vibration present in the drive line, which made it feel like the car was working harder than it needed to.

**A Focus on Driving Enjoyment: The CX-90's Philosophy**

At its core, Mazda's philosophy with the CX-90 is one of driving enjoyment and connection. They're not trying to create a comfortable, practical SUV that checks all the right boxes; instead, they're focused on creating a vehicle that inspires joy and excitement behind the wheel. This approach is clearly evident in the way the car handles, which feels more agile and responsive than many of its competitors.

**A Special Experience: The CX-90's Unique Charm**

As I sat down to write this review, I couldn't help but feel that the Mazda CX-90 was a truly special vehicle. Its unique approach to driving experience has left me with a sense of intrigue and curiosity, and I'm excited to see how it will fare in the long term. While it may not be perfect – and there are certainly areas where it falls short – the CX-90's commitment to creating a driving experience that's both engaging and enjoyable is something to be commended.

**A Look to the Future: Mazda's Next Steps**

As I look to the future, I'm excited to see how Mazda will continue to evolve this platform. What improvements can they make? How will they address some of the quirks and issues that we've identified in this review? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the Mazda CX-90 is a vehicle that's left an indelible mark on my psyche, and I'm eager to see what the future holds for this innovative SUV.