There’s Already a Dangerous Recall for the New 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV serves as the Japanese automaker’s first plug-in hybrid, but already the company has issued a notable recall for the all-new model. Impacting several thousand CX-90 models, the recall has been issued for the potential of the powertrain shutting down unexpectedly.
The CX-90 PHEV’s powertrain could shutdown ‘unexpectedly’
Mazda North America Operations has recalled 4,252 CX-90 plug-in hybrid 2024 models due to a software error. The recall states the gasoline engine and electric motor “may shut down unexpectedly,” resulting in a loss of power and increasing the risk of a crash. Models impacted were produced between Dec. 28, 2022, and June 20, 2023.
According to the NHTSA’s recall notice, issued Oct. 26, the PHEV system inverter temperature may rise “above a specific threshold” and activate the CX-90’s failsafe mode, which stops the engine and electric motor’s operations. Failsafe mode is activated without warning to the driver. Engine and hybrid system warning lights will illuminate after the failsafe mode has been activated, the recall notes.
Owners with CX-90 PHEV models included in the recall should soon receive notification by mail of the recall. To remedy the issue, owners will need to take their CX-90 PHEVs to an authorized Mazda dealer, where the powertrain and engine control modules will be reprogrammed with updated software. The update will be completed at no charge to owners.
To note, CX-90s with the 3.3-liter inline-six engine with a 48-vold mild hybrid system are not included in the recall.
This CX-90 recall was the second to be issued for the model in late October. Another recall was issued for 10,782 CX-90 models manufactured between Dec. 27, 2022, and Sept. 5, 2023, for models equipped with the rearview monitor (digital rearview mirror) and the 360-degree view monitor. The recall states images from front, side, and rearview cameras displayed on the infotainment screen may flicker, “and in some cases,” may no longer display.
Again, owners of impacted models will be notified by mail and should take their CX-90 to an authorized Mazda dealer to reprogram the view monitor control module with “improved software” at no cost.
The early recalls have dampened the CX-90’s debut
The recalls issued have resulted in a somewhat inauspicious start, at least in terms of reliability, for the CX-90, which replaces the outgoing CX-9 as Mazda’s flagship SUV.
The CX-90 is slightly larger and more upscale than the model it replaces, and it’s the first Mazda to offer a new turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six with a mild hybrid system and the brand’s first plug-in hybrid model. A high-output inline-six is also offered, delivering 340 horsepower, up from 280 as standard.
The CX-90 PHEV is motivated by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor for a total output of 323 horsepower with premium fuel. The PHEV model delivers an estimated 56 MPGe with an all-electric driving range of 26 miles.
The CX-90 is also available in several configurations with seating for either six, seven, or eight passengers. With its larger overall dimensions over the CX-9, the CX-90 offers an additional 2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, 3 added cubic feet behind the first row, and slightly larger passenger accommodations.
The CX-90 is also more premium compared to the CX-9. Some notable standard features of the CX-90 include 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and a 7-inch driver’s display, and a suite of active driver aids.
Pricing for the 2024 Mazda CX-90 starts at $40,970 MSRP. The PHEV version starts at $48,820 MSRP.
