Skip to main content

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is coming to battle with rivals in the midsize SUV vehicle segment. The CX-9 wasn’t a good match for the Telluride, but the CX-90 three-row SUV could take the throne. There’s still plenty to learn about the Mazda CX-90, but the Japanese automaker has released power and gas mileage specs. How does it compare to the popular Kia Telluride? Time for 2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2023 Kia Telluride.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has an impressive standard powertrain

A red 2024 Mazda CX-90 midsize SUV is driving.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 | Mazda

Mazda fans worldwide are rejoicing over the 2024 Mazda CX-90’s engine options. The Mazda CX-90 Turbo starts at $39,595. It comes standard with a 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 that makes 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It’s assisted by My-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The midsize SUV achieves 24 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.

The CX-90’s standard power output may not seem remarkable, but it’s a huge change from the Mazda CX-9’s power output and driving dynamics. According to U.S. News & World Report, the CX-9 uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to make 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

The Mazda CX-90 makes 53 more horses and 22 more lb-ft of torque than the CX-9. The best part is that there are still more powerful CX-90 options available to consumers. CX-90 PHEV models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 17.8 kWh battery to make 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (when using premium fuel). Fuel economy numbers aren’t out for the PHEV yet.

The final three CX-90 trims come standard with Mazda’s e-Skyactiv G 3.3-liter Inline 6 Turbo engine. This engine makes a massive 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This is Mazda’s most powerful production engine thus far. CX-90 models with the final engine option get 24 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon combined.

The 2023 Kia Telluride is at the top of its segment

The Kia Telluride is the top dog in its segment. Many experts and automotive publications agree that the Telluride is the best midsize SUV in its segment for most drivers. There are plenty of contenders, but the Telluride offers value that’s practically unparalleled at an affordable price.

The 2023 Kia Telluride starts at $35,890. It uses a 3.8-liter V6 engine to make 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The midsize SUV achieves 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. There’s only one Telluride engine option available.

2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2023 Kia Telluride

A red 2024 Mazda CX-90 (L), a blue 2023 Kia Telluride (R).
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 (L), the 2023 Kia Telluride (R) | Mazda (L), Kia (R)

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 base model isn’t as powerful as the 2023 Kia Telluride. That being said, Mazda offers two additional powertrain options that both produce more torque than any Telluride model.

The two midsize three-row SUVs have similar fuel economies. The CX-90 is more expensive by $3,705, but it’s a newer model year, so the price comparison is unfair.

Ultimately it’s too early to tell which SUV provides more value for the money, but it’s clear that the two models are evenly matched. The Kia Telluride has found a real rival after a few years of dominance. Is it time for another SUV to dethrone the South Korean model?

Let us know which midsize SUV you think will emerge victorious in the comment section below.

Related

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Solves Every Mazda CX-9 Issue