Comparing the Cutting-Edge 2024 Mazda CX-90 and the Exceptional 2023 Mazda CX-50
Mazda is ushering in a new era of cars and SUVs, and the new 2024 Mazda CX-90 sets the bar pretty high. That doesn’t mean the brand-new 2023 Mazda CX-50 is any less of an SUV, especially considering the price difference. After driving both vehicles for a week, how do the 2024 CX-90 features and the 2023 CX-50 qualities compare?
What is the difference between the 2024 Mazda CX-90 and the 2023 Mazda CX-50?
There are a lot of differences between the 2024 Mazda CX-90 S Premium Plus and the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition we drove around. These are all-new models for 2023 and 2024, but the CX-50 is very different inside. The CX-90 has many lux materials in the cabin and has some very advanced systems. The dashboard is all digital, and our test vehicle was equipped with quilted Nappa leather seats. A large infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay takes up most of the dashboard, but the screen works well and is easy to use.
Hopping into the 2023 Mazda CX-50, it feels like similar Mazda SUVs of the past. The dashboard is still digital but uses less of the space. Graphics appear when changing driving modes but shows the basic speed, gasoline, and temperature gauges otherwise. The 2023 CX-50 trims offer many options for interior customization, but our test vehicle came with Terracotta leather throughout.
One of the biggest differences in the driving dynamics of both SUVs was the head-up display on the 2024 CX-90. Combined with Road Sign Assist and other capabilities, the CX-90 displayed the speed and any necessary road signs in a convenient place. The CX-50 simply presented the speed on the standard odometer. Safety system information is displayed but isn’t quite as sensitive or active as in the CX-90.
2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50: Price
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 S Premium Plus came out to $61,920 with the $1,375 delivery and processing fee. It had an MSRP of $59,950. The total cost for the CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition was $41,620, with the $1,275 delivery and processing fee. It has an MSRP of $39,950.
All 2024 Mazda CX-90 trims and prices are below, along with the 2023 Mazda CX-50 prices and trims. Based on the cost of the two lowest trim levels, the CX-90 starts $12,045 higher than the CX-50.
| 2024 Mazda CX-90 Trim | Price | 2023 Mazda CX-50 Trim | Price |
| 3.3 Turbo Select | $39,595 | 2.5 S | $27,550 |
| 3.3 Turbo Preferred | $43,445 | 2.5 S Select | $28,950 |
| 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus | $45,900 | 2.5 S Preferred | $30,250 |
| 3.3 Turbo Premium | $48,900 | 2.5 S Preferred Plus | $32,690 |
| 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus | $52,950 | 2.5 S Premium | $35,150 |
| 3.3 Turbo S | $51,750 | 2.5 S Premium Plus | $37,150 |
| 3.3 Turbo S Premium | $56,450 | 2.5 Turbo | $37,150 |
| 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus | $59,950 | 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | $39,950 |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium | $40,300 | ||
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | $42,300 |
While the vehicles look similar in size, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a three-row, midsize SUV. The cost for a three-row SUV is usually higher than a compact SUV, such as the 2023 Mazda CX-50. For an extra $20,000, the CX-90 has a lot more going on, but that’s expected for the cost. The list of 2024 Mazda CX-90 features is pretty long, but the Mazda CX-50 isn’t lacking in any area.
2024 CX-90 vs. 2023 CX-50: Engine
The CX-50 has a 2.5L turbo engine with 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It also has a 3,500-pound towing capacity, which is enough for many buyers. It doesn’t feel all that powerful, but Mazda offers different modes to make driving more spirited. When getting up to highway speed, Sport mode was helpful.
After driving the 2023 Mazda CX-50 for a week, it would be easy to live with this SUV. The cargo area had plenty of room, and both rows of seats were comfortable. EPA fuel economy estimates put the CX-50 at $1,750 a year, which is pretty affordable too.
For the CX-90, the 3.3L inline-six engine gets 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It feels quick during daily city driving, and had no trouble getting up to speed on the highway in a lot of traffic. This version can tow 5,000 pounds, too.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 features higher-end materials and an elevated experience. Living with this three-row SUV would be easy, especially with a bigger family. The folding seats were helpful, and the added cargo space made the CX-90 versatile. It does have a higher estimated fuel cost of around $2,600 a year. Mazda recommends premium fuel for the best performance, which adds to the price.
If you can get into the 2024 Mazda CX-90 or the 2023 Mazda CX-50, neither one will disappoint. It is clear Mazda put a lot of thought and care into designing both SUVs, and it makes sense these vehicles have already jumped to the top of the respective segments.
