2025 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2025 Volvo XC90 Comparison

Although one is from a mainstream brand and the other is from a luxury brand, the Mazda CX-290 and Volvo XC90 are more direct rivals than you might expect. Their common ground goes well beyond their eerily similar names. Both are midsize SUVs with 3-row seating, upscale interior quality, modern technology, and available plug-in hybrid powertrains.

If you’re in the market for an upscale midsize SUV, you may find yourself cross-shopping these two, so let’s compare them and see which is a better fit for your wants and needs.

2025 Mazda CX-90

With room for up to eight in its decidedly premium interior, you might mistake the Mazda CX-90 for a luxury SUV if there was no Mazda logo on the steering wheel. The brand’s flagship SUV combines comfort and serenity with a little bit of driving athleticism that Mazda is famous for, especially in its Turbo S trims. Even the efficient plug-in hybrid variant has some verve while going up to 25 miles on electricity alone.

Mazda CX-90 Highlights

Still some zoom-zoom: Mazda has imparted the CX-90 with a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine that puts out 280 horsepower, but if you move up to the top-of-the-line version, the ponies jump to 340 hp. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard across the board. If you’re eco-conscious, get the hybrid and enjoy 323 hp.

Fancy interior: The SUV features an open, somewhat minimalist, contemporary cabin full of high-quality materials. Don’t worry, the design team left an appropriate number of buttons and dials to keep you from losing your mind.

Simple yet advanced tech: The infotainment system is smartly arranged, and it’s controlled mainly by a knob on the center console. It’s pretty easy to operate. It also features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connect, including voice control for the infotainment system, Pandora integration, and automatic emergency notifications.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-90 models for sale near you.

2025 Volvo XC90

It’s a bit confounding to apply the word “graceful” to an SUV, but it fits in the case of the XC90. With room for seven, it’s the brand’s flagship SUV. It’s laden with technology, safety, and comfort. The interior features the contemporary, clean look associated with the brand. The current version has been Volvo’s top-of-the-line vehicle since 2015. Its spacious cabin, commanding performance, handsome exterior, and strong safety scores make it a tough combo to top. This Volvo has a plug-in hybrid version that goes up to 32 miles on electricity alone.

Volvo XC90 Highlights

A reputation for safety: The XC90 secured a 5-Star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the XC90 its highest award, Top Safety Pick+. Volvo knows where its bread is buttered — safety first.

Another level of luxury: The XC90 is a luxurious experience, especially with its 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, which was enhanced for 2024. New laminated side windows keep out road noise and make the cabin quieter — or louder when you crank the audio.

Variety is the spice of life: The XC90 features several options under the hood beyond the standard 250-hp 4-cylinder, including a 295-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder and a plug-in hybrid with 455 hp that can travel up to 36 miles on electricity alone.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the XC90 models for sale near you.

Similarities

They are both 3-row SUVs. They get similar power from their base engines, and a fully equipped CX-90 has about as much luxury as an XC90. Also, they’re both available with plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 MAZDA CX-90 vehicles and New 2025 Volvo XC90 vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

Conclusion

The Mazda CX-90 is sleek and contemporary outside and comfortable and impressive inside — everything the XC90 has been for years. If you can find a CX-90 equipped the same as the XC90 for cheaper, you may have your choice.