We only had the 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 AWD HEV Turbo for 48 hours, its Mazda Philippines’ head honcho’s personal unit, no less—but those two days felt like living a chapter of a life we didn’t know we were missing. This wasn’t just a test drive; it was a quiet revelation. The CX-90 showed us that a car can transcend being a machine, it can become a true companion. One that moves in sync with your rhythm, adapts to your personal pace, and delivers both serenity when you crave calm and strength when you demand power.
From slipping out of Manila’s gridlock into the cocoon of its cabin, to carving through the winding roads of Rizal’s highlands, the CX-90 didn’t just perform—it delivered presence, peace, and power in equal measure.
Mazda has evolved into something more than a carmaker—it’s become a symphony of humanity and craftsmanship. Under the skillful hands of Mazda’s Takumi, or master craftsman, each vehicle is treated as an artist’s canvas. Every curve, stitch, and surface is infused with meticulous detail rooted in Japanese tradition. The result is a design philosophy that feels timeless, authentic, and deeply personal connecting with you on a human level.
The CX-90 embodies this philosophy. It doesn’t just look refined—it feels intentional, like it was built to understand you.
The first time I walked up to the Mazda CX-90, it was hard not to pause and take it all in. The design carries Mazda’s Kodo: Soul of Motion philosophy, and you can really feel it—the sculpted lines and flowing curves give the SUV a sense of movement even when it’s standing still. Its wide stance and elongated proportions make it look powerful yet refined, while the bold front grille and chrome accents add a touch of sophistication.
What struck me most were the details: the sleek LED headlights that frame the face with confidence, the sharp taillights that leave a lasting impression, and the available 21-inch alloy wheels that complete its athletic presence. 
Seeing it in person, the CX-90 doesn’t just look like another SUV—it feels like a statement. Elegant enough for city streets, commanding enough for open highways, and versatile enough to match the personality of whoever’s behind the wheel.
Manila Rush Hour: Calm in the Chaos
We started in the thick of it—Metro Manila’s infamous rush hour, where stress usually comes standard. But inside the Mazda CX-90, it felt like stepping into a different world. The mild hybrid system, paired with its 8-speed automatic transmission, transformed the stop-and-go traffic into a smooth, almost effortless rhythm. In Normal mode, the drive felt intuitive—like the car was syncing with your breath. Switch to Sport, and it came alive, responding with sharpness and urgency, as if it had something to prove. Steering tightened up little, the transmission held the gears longer for max rpms in every gear.The suspennsion was conntrolled but supple in any mode. the transition of power from the ICE and electric was so seemless that I couldn’t detect the ICE engine was activated. The CX90 has a 48volt hybrid system.
When the road demanded more grit, engaging Off-Road mode gave the CX-90 the confidence to tackle uneven terrain and rough patches with ease, proving that this SUV isn’t only just built for the city—it’s ready for wherever the journey takes you.
Even in gridlock, the CX-90 felt therapeutic. Light yet precise steering, refined suspension, and a cabin that muted the outside world—it was calm in the storm.
Once we broke free from the city and headed toward the mountains, the CX-90 revealed its true nature. The 340 hp turbocharged inline-6 and 450 Nm of torque made every climb effortless and every curve a thrill. The AWD system gripped the road with quiet confidence, turning winding roads into a playground.
It didn’t just drive—it flowed. Every turn felt like a conversation between driver and machine. It was composed, agile, and deeply satisfying.
Machine Grey: Understated Elegance
Our test unit came in Machine Grey, and under the mountain sun, it shimmered with quiet confidence. It didn’t scream for attention—it earned it. 
The long hood, sculpted sides, and premium stance made it look equally at home parked at a roadside café or gliding through provincial towns.
Inside: A Cabin That Feels Like Yours
Step inside, and the Mazda CX-90 immediately feels personal. Wrapped in luxurious Nappa leather, the cabin is elevated by the iconic 12-speaker BOSE surround sound system, designed to make every drive feel like a private concert hall. With BOSE Centerpoint, stereo tracks are expanded into immersive surround sound; Stereo Mode keeps things crisp and balanced for purists; and Audiopilot subtly adjusts audio levels to match road noise, so the music never fades. Hidden neatly at the back, the subwoofer tucked into the spare tire well adds depth without sacrificing space, proving that design and function can coexist beautifully.
A crisp 12.3-inch infotainment display anchors the tech experience, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep the soundtrack flowing seamlessly no matter your device. 
Comfort is equally prioritized—especially with the second-row captain’s chairs, which earned high praise for their spaciousness and premium amenities. Together, these details make the CX-90’s interior feel less like a cabin and more like a curated sanctuary for every journey.
At the center of the second row, the captain’s chair console elevates the passenger experience with premium amenities. It offers storage compartments for small items, dedicated air vents for personalized climate control, and in select trims, seat ventilation controls that draw air away for added comfort. Multiple USB-C ports and cupholders are also integrated, ensuring convenience for longer trips.
The third row adds two additional seats, each equipped with its own Type-C charging socket—a thoughtful touch for passengers who want to stay powered up on the go. If you don’t need the extra seating, the space easily transforms into a generous storage area, perfect for gear, luggage, or quick stops. It’s this kind of versatility that makes the CX-90 more than just an SUV—it’s a companion built around the way you live and travel.
It’s the kind of cabin that makes you want to take the long way home—just to stay inside a little longer.
Mazda’s i-Activsense suite gave us quiet confidence. The 360° camera made tight spots a breeze, and adaptive cruise control took the edge off long stretches.
It felt like the CX-90 was watching out for us—so we could focus on the journey.
For all its refinement, performance, and premium features, the Mazda CX-90 3.3 AWD HEV Turbo is available in the Philippines at ₱3,680,000—a compelling price for an SUV that delivers luxury, capability, and connection in every drive.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth and Powerful Turbocharged inline-6 engine | Third-row space best suited for cargo or short trips |
| Elegant and Quiet Cabin with Premium Materials | Fuel economy really varies depending on driving style |
| Refined Ride Quality, even in noisy city traffic | Limited color options for those wanting bolder hues |
| Strong Safety Tech and intuitive Driving Modes | Price may stretch budgets outside the premium segment |
| AWD confidence and Hybrid Efficiency |
Final Thoughts
Final ThoughtsTwo days—that’s all we had. Yet in that short span, the Mazda CX-90 managed to make every moment feel purposeful. It was serene when we needed calm, commanding when we craved power, and effortlessly elegant throughout. More than just transporting us, it turned each drive into an experience worth remembering.
For anyone searching for an SUV that feels less like a machine and more like a trusted companion, the CX-90 might just be the one you didn’t realize you were waiting for.
A heartfelt thank you to Steven Tan of Mazda Philippines for giving us the chance to experience the CX-90 up close, even if only for a limited time—it was a drive that left a lasting impression. The query in my mind definitively answered by the drive.