2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV vs. 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge Comparison

What’s better than a luxury midsize sport utility vehicle? A plug-in hybrid luxury midsize sport utility vehicle … or, in this case, two of them: the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV and the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge.

Technically speaking, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV isn’t considered a luxury model, but in its top trim level, it’s certainly laden with enough high-end materials, cutting-edge technologies, and a performance powertrain to hang with the likes of the Volvo XC90 Recharge.

Shall we take a closer look? Yes.

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

The all-new CX-90 PHEV is the brand’s first-ever plug-in hybrid. More importantly, it features a bigger battery and more powerful engine than most of its competition. That’s one way to catapult to the top of the heap in an already crowded segment. Like its gas-only sibling, it boasts room for up to 8 passengers. Pricing begins at $49,945.

Mazda CX-90 PHEV Highlights

Very flexible: The aforementioned big battery/powerful engine combo is tough to beat. Owners can travel 26 miles in electric-only mode, but combined it produces 323 horsepower, plenty of punch for getting around town or further.

Making an impression: Mazda is pushing more toward the luxury sector with each new vehicle. For example, the CX-90’s dashboard has stitching inspired by Japanese bookbinding, which is most Lexus-like. The rest of this SUV follows a similar path.

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

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

2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge

Volvo enjoys a pretty lofty perch among automakers, seen by many as forward-thinking, environmentally conscious, and safety focused. The XC90 Recharge only enhances that reputation.

That said, all of those things don’t mean you can’t have some fun. The XC90 recharge is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor that puts out a combined 455 hp. You may not beat an all-electric SUV off the light, but you’ll get to 60 mph nearly 2 seconds faster than the CX-90 PHEV.

Volvo does have a large, 3-row electric SUV coming next year in the EX90, but the stalwart XC90 still has a lot of fans. XC90 Recharge prices start at $71,900.

Volvo XC90 Highlights

Safe and fun: With one-pedal drive and all-wheel drive, the XC90 Recharge is agile and powerful while offering the driver plenty of control. Plus, it enjoys a 5-Star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+.

Tech you expect: Google is the XC90 Recharge’s friend, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. You can organize your life from the driver’s seat. Apple CarPlay is also on board. Additionally, this 3-row SUV features an air purifier, a 360-degree camera, a head-up display, a blind-spot information system, and a plethora of additional driver assistance technologies.

Further and faster: The XC90 Recharge is plenty fast, hitting 60 mph in just 5 seconds, but you can also travel 32 miles in electric-only mode — 6 miles farther than the Mazda above.

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

Similarities

Much like their gas-only siblings, these 3-row midsize premium utes offer plenty: performance, comfort, and technology — plus improved mileage. There’s a lot to like here.

Conclusion

There are no wrong answers here, perhaps only better answers. The Mazda CX-90 offers a lot of premium amenities and starts over $20,000 below the XC90 Recharge. That said, the XC90 Recharge edges the Mazda in horsepower, MPGe, towing, and 0-to-60 mph time — and price. Which of these aspects you prioritize will lead to the right answer for you.

Specifications