Mazda has a rich and diverse history that traces back to its founding in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd. Initially established in Hiroshima, Japan, the company began as a cork manufacturing business. Mazda produced its first three-wheeled truck in 1931, setting the stage for its automotive journey. Today, Mazda stands as a recognizable automaker, appreciated for its emphasis on design, engineering, and a unique driving experience. In this article, we will look at the most expensive Mazda for the 2024 lineup.

What is the most expensive Mazda?

Plug-in hybrids help bridge the gap between gas-powered cars and fully electric cars. Many American families aren’t ready to switch to electric vehicles (EVs) yet. So, for now, many car makers are offering a compromise. 

The Mazda CX-90 Hybrid is a new product that replaces the CX-9. Along with its nonhybrid sister, it fills the role of the brand’s family-friendly three-row SUV. The Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid stands out as the most expensive vehicle in their lineup, with a starting price of $47,445, according to Mazda.

Why is it the most expensive Mazda?

The Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid is the largest vehicle in Mazda’s lineup, which makes sense considering it is the most expensive. It has room for up to eight passengers. Opt for the second-row captain’s chairs, and the total seating drops to seven. 

The CX-90 is longer than its predecessor, the CX-9, but its third row is also cramped. Also, getting in and out of the third row can be a chore. The CX-90’s roofline causes reduced headroom in the third row, and a low hip point puts adults’ knees up by their chins.

What you get for the price

The Mazda CX-90’s 2.5-liter engine makes 189 hp, and the electric motor makes 173 hp. Together, they give the Mazda 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of power, which is a lot. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is pretty good for its size. At 95.8 mph, the CX-90 finished the quarter-mile sprint in 14.6 seconds. Just behind the CX-90 Turbo S engine, this is the second most powerful engine Mazda has ever made.

The CX-90 Hybrid’s base trim comes well-equipped with high-end features like leather seating, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power rear liftgate, three-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, and heated front seats. Additionally, with the Premium trim, you get captain’s chairs in the second row, a panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection, a Bose sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a wireless device charging pad.

The advantage of Mazda’s small 17.8-kWh battery pack is you won’t spend a lot of time charging it. It takes about two and a half hours for the CX-90 to charge from zero to 100 percent using a Level 2 charger with speeds you usually find in a home charger, which is comparable compared to others in this segment.

You won’t get complimentary scheduled maintenance as you do with the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, but you do get a limited warranty that covers three years or 36,000 miles, a powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles, and hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles.

Although Mazda has been slow to enter the hybrid game, they have a strong showing with the CX-90. Although some areas could use some improvement, they are definitely heading in the right direction.