2025 Mazda CX-90 vs. Kia Telluride

When shopping for a three-row midsize SUV, two names likely top your list: the 2025 Mazda CX-90 and the 2025 Kia Telluride. Both vehicles offer an impressive blend of style, performance, and practicality, but they cater to different priorities. Whether you value luxurious refinement or family-friendly versatility, this comparison will help you determine which SUV best suits your needs.

Design and Aesthetics

Here’s how these two plush SUVs differ when it comes to design and aesthetics.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 makes a bold statement with its sleek, elongated profile and minimalist design language. Inspired by Mazda’s Kodo philosophy, its long hood and set-back cabin evoke a premium aesthetic reminiscent of high-end European SUVs. Thoughtful details such as LED lighting, chrome accents, and available 21-inch wheels enhance its sophistication, while its sculpted curves convey a sense of motion even when stationary.

The Kia Telluride, in contrast, leans into rugged charm. Its boxy design, prominent grille, and sharp LED headlights project a tough, off-road-ready image. The squared-off wheel arches and contrasting skid plates further emphasize its adventure-oriented character. While stylish, its utilitarian approach feels more functional than luxurious. With its upscale, elegant design, the CX-90 outshines the Telluride’s practical, rugged exterior.

Interior Design and Comfort

Inside, the CX-90 delivers a near-luxury experience. Soft nappa leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and unique fabric accents create a refined cabin that feels bespoke. The design emphasizes a sense of openness and serenity, making every ride feel special. Mazda has also incorporated ambient lighting, added a 12.3-inch infotainment system that seamlessly integrates into the dashboard, and meticulously crafted switchgear to further elevate your experience.

The Telluride’s cabin prioritizes space and practicality while offering a contemporary and inviting design. High-quality materials, especially in higher trims, provide comfort, though they lack the premium finish of the CX-90. With a more straightforward layout, intuitive controls, and superior passenger room — particularly in the third row — the Telluride caters to larger families. Its rugged details, such as the grab handles on the center console, underscore its adventurous spirit. Despite its practicality, the CX-90 edges ahead with superior materials and an upscale ambiance that exudes elegance.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Performance is another key item to consider when shopping for your next SUV. Here’s how these SUVs differ in engine options, performance, and fuel economy.

Engine Options and Powertrain Performance

The CX-90 offers a dynamic powertrain lineup. The standard turbocharged inline-six generates 280 horsepower, with an upgraded version producing 340 horsepower. A plug-in hybrid variant delivers 323 horsepower while prioritizing efficiency. These engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive for responsive performance.

The Telluride’s 3.8-liter V-6 produces a respectable 291 horsepower, offering consistent power delivery. However, it lacks the variety and excitement of the CX-90’s lineup.

Ride Quality and Handling

The CX-90 excels in driving dynamics, offering sharp steering, smooth cornering, and an engaging ride. Mazda’s commitment to creating a driver-centric experience is evident in its refined suspension and confident handling. The Telluride prioritizes comfort over sportiness. While its suspension effortlessly absorbs road imperfections, it lacks the athleticism of the CX-90, feeling more suited for leisurely drives.

Fuel Efficiency

The 2025 Mazda CX-90’s gasoline engine achieves an impressive 25 mpg combined, outperforming the Kia Telluride’s 21 mpg combined. While both SUVs are relatively fuel-efficient for their size, the CX-90’s higher fuel economy is a significant advantage over the long term, especially if you frequently embark on long trips or daily commutes.

The long-term benefits of a higher fuel economy rating go beyond the initial savings at the pump. Over the years, those extra miles per gallon can translate into substantial savings, particularly if you drive long distances or use your SUV for road trips. The CX-90’s superior efficiency not only reduces the number of fuel stops but also lowers the overall cost of ownership. In addition, fewer visits to the gas station contribute to a more convenient and hassle-free driving experience.

Furthermore, the improved fuel efficiency of the CX-90 is better for the environment, reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to sustainability over time. The combined savings on fuel and the reduced environmental impact make the CX-90 a more economical choice in the long run, especially when considering the overall lifecycle of the vehicle.

Safety and Reliability

Both SUVs come equipped with advanced safety features, including automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE suite stands out with features such as rear cross-traffic alert and driver attention monitoring as standard. The CX-90 also earns top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration with a five-star overall safety rating. The Telluride offers a comprehensive suite of safety features as well, but it doesn’t outpace the CX-90’s tech-forward offerings.

In addition to their safety systems, both vehicles excel in reliability, but the Mazda CX-90 edges ahead with its reputation for precision engineering and long-term durability. Mazda’s meticulous attention to detail in both manufacturing and quality control contributes to its consistent reliability scores. The Telluride, backed by Kia’s industry-leading warranty, offers peace of mind with extensive coverage, making it a strong contender if you’re seeking value. Ultimately, while both SUVs prioritize safety and reliability, the CX-90’s advanced technology and meticulous build quality give it a slight edge in this category.

Price and Value for Money

Here’s a price breakdown for each SUV.

Mazda CX-90’s Pricing

The MSRPs for each trim level of the CX-90 are:

• Select: $37,845
• Preferred: $40,945
• Premium Sport: $46,400
• Premium Plus: $49,400
• S Premium: $52,950
• S Premium Plus: $56,450

Kia Telluride Pricing

The MSRPs for each trim of the Telluride are:

• LX: $36,390
• S: $39,390
• EX: $42,090
• SX: $46,190
• EX X-Line: $46,485
• EX X-Pro: $47,385
• SX X-Line: $51,390
• SX Prestige X-Line: $52,785
• SX Prestige X-Pro: $53,685

While the Telluride offers a slightly lower starting price, the CX-90’s added luxury makes it a better long-term investment if you’re seeking refinement and versatility.

Want To Take the 2025 Mazda CX-90 for a Spin?

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 elevates the midsize SUV experience with its luxurious design, dynamic performance, and advanced technology. While the Kia Telluride remains a solid family-friendly option, the CX-90’s premium features and driving pleasure make it the standout choice. Visit Capistrano Mazda in Orange County, California, today to experience the 2025 Mazda CX-90 for yourself. Schedule a test-drive and discover why this SUV is the perfect blend of style, power, and luxury.