2025 Mazda CX-90 vs. Hyundai Palisade: The Ultimate SUV Showdown

Are you an SUV enthusiast who is considering the best option for driving around Orange County, California? The 2025 Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai PALISADE represent two compelling choices in the midsize SUV category. With both models offering unique strengths, a detailed comparison can help you make an informed decision. Whether your priority is performance, space, or cutting-edge technology, understanding the nuances of these vehicles can help you choose your ideal ride.

In-Depth Look at Technology and Connectivity Features

Both vehicles feature advanced technology that enhances the driving experience. A detailed look at the technological features shows how each caters to modern connectivity and infotainment demands. The Mazda CX-90 offers a sleek 12.3-inch user-friendly infotainment display on all but the base trim. Seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes daily Orange County commutes more convenient. The Hyundai PALISADE offers a similar setup, ensuring you stay connected wherever your journey takes you.

Driver-Assistance and Safety Features

Mazda and Hyundai prioritize safety, each bringing a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Mazda’s i-Activsense and Hyundai’s SmartSense suites offer adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. These features ensure peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Comfort, Cargo, and Seating Capabilities

The Mazda CX-90 offers seating for up to eight, with the following interior dimensions to ensure your comfort:

• Front legroom: 41.7 inches
• Second-row legroom: 39.4 inches
• Third-row legroom: 30.4 inches
• Cargo space: 14.9 cubic feet (behind third row), 40 cubic feet (behind second row), 74.2 cubic feet (maximum)

Hyundai PALISADE

When it comes to a Hyundai PALISADE size comparison, the PALISADE also has seating for up to eight with the following interior dimensions:

• Front legroom: 44.1 inches
• Second-row legroom: 42.4 inches
• Third-row legroom: 31.4 inches
• Cargo space: 18 cubic feet (behind third row), 45.8 cubic feet (behind second row), 86.4 cubic feet (maximum)

Exterior dimensions play a role in the interior space and comfort each model offers. The 2025 Mazda CX-90 specifications are as follows:

• Length: 201.6 inches
• Width: 77.6 inches
• Height: 68.2 inches
• Wheelbase: 122.8 inches
• Ground clearance: 8 inches

Specifications for the Hyundai PALISADE are as follows:

• Length: 196.1 inches
• Width: 77.8 inches
• Height: 68.9 inches
• Wheelbase: 114.2 inches
• Ground clearance: 8 inches

Road Capability: Performance and Powertrain

The Mazda CX-90 features a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque in the S models. A plug-in hybrid variant is also available that makes 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. S models have a 0-to-60 mph time of approximately 6.3 seconds. Fuel economy figures for the CX-90 average 24 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with standard all-wheel drive.

The Hyundai PALISADE has a 3.8-liter V-6 engine producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel-drive models have a 0-to-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds. The base model with standard front-wheel drive gets up to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 has a starting MSRP of $37,845. It comes in six trim levels: Select, Preferred, Premium Sport, Premium Plus, S Premium, and S Premium Plus.

The 2025 Hyundai PALISADE starts at $36,800 and offers seven trims: the SE, SEL, XRT, SEL Premium, Limited, Calligraphy, and Calligraphy Night.

Driving Experience

Choosing between the Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai PALISADE may ultimately come down to the driving experience. Mazda’s CX-90 prioritizes a sporty, engaging drive with precise handling and a quieter cabin. The PALISADE offers a comfortable, smooth journey, providing a relaxed ride with slightly more body roll in corners.

Warranty and Ownership Costs

Ownership costs in terms of warranty coverage favor the Hyundai PALISADE with its five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Mazda CX-90, while offering quality assurance, has a slightly shorter three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, Mazda’s reliability and build quality may mitigate long-term maintenance concerns.

Pros Based on Expert Reviews and Consumer Feedback

Both vehicles have received positive reviews from experts, highlighting their respective strengths. Consumers appreciate the Mazda CX-90’s agile handling and premium interior finishes, regularly praising its sporty feel and refined cabin. Many laud the Hyundai PALISADE for its practicality and spaciousness, with numerous accolades for its value-focused features and family-friendly design.

Make Your Choice: Visit Capistrano Mazda

If you’re leaning toward the Mazda CX-90’s performance-driven, sleek design for your daily Orange County commute or family adventures exploring the rest of California, we encourage you to visit Capistrano Mazda for a test-drive. You can also explore financing options or schedule a service appointment with our welcoming team. Discover why the Mazda CX-90 may be the perfect fit for your driving lifestyle.