2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 presented a bold step towards luxury, challenging traditional high-end brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Mazda's design and material quality surpassed its Japanese competitors, aligning more closely with luxury brands such as Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus. The CX-90's exterior was an elegant expansion of Mazda's design language, featuring a prominent grille, wide front end, and large wheels that commanded attention. Inside, the top-tier models boasted interiors with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic, rivaling luxury vehicles in appearance and feel.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer maintained its sleek, balanced design with a refreshed front end that enhanced its rugged appeal. The rear featured new LED taillights and a trim strip with the SUV's name. Interior updates significantly improved the Explorer's ambiance, making it competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the trim levels to four, focusing on quality over quantity, with the ST-Line offering sporty aesthetics and the Platinum trim providing luxury. The Explorer's design updates and interior enhancements made it a strong contender in the midsize SUV market.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The base turbo I6 delivered 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the Turbo S variant offered 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 excelled in handling, with a double-wishbone front suspension and agile cornering capabilities, reminiscent of Mazda's sporty heritage.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 400 horsepower. All Explorers came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport, and more, catering to various driving conditions. The ST-Line's performance was enhanced with larger wheels and brakes, while the ST model showcased the V6's power on an autocross course. The Explorer's handling was firm yet comfortable, with commendable grip from its tires.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Turbo S models featured a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet, with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. Despite improvements over the CX-9, the CX-90's cargo space and third-row legroom were less than some competitors. However, the interior's quality materials and panoramic sunroof contributed to a comfortable experience.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim included features like heated seats and a power-folding third row. The Explorer's front and second-row seats were comfortable, though the third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with a maximum of 85.8 cubic feet. The Explorer's interior offered practical storage solutions, including a useful dashboard tray.

Mazda's approach to technology in the 2024 CX-90 focused on minimizing distractions with a rotary control knob instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was safety, the system's quirks could be distracting. However, personalization software using facial recognition enhanced convenience. The CX-90 included standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with touchscreen controls for these systems in higher trims.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience, featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Google Built-in. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Explorer's infotainment was user-friendly, with Google Maps and app downloads available. The B&O sound system varied by trim, with the Platinum offering a superior audio experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, offering comprehensive ADAS features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The top-spec model included advanced lane-centering and traffic support. While crash test ratings were pending, expectations were high based on the CX-9's performance.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. Higher trims included BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. BlueCruise performed well in testing, though it occasionally struggled with large trucks. Safety ratings were incomplete, but side-impact and rollover resistance scores were promising.