Mazda CX-90 Azami G50e

A near perfect large and luxurious SUV – The CX-90 is the most powerful production Mazda ever created. Sorry RX-7 owners, but a large SUV holds that title. Although when you have a large inline-six turbocharged motor hauling a family SUV, a RX-7 is still capable of out performing it on the street. But the CX-90 won't be far behind, as Mazda has worked to make this large SUV not just good to look at, but also great to drive.

It boasts a rear-drive bias, meaning power is ideally sent to the rear more often than to the front in this AWD set-up.

There's a sea of space in the second row, and a bigger than average third row too.

The front seats benefit from a mix physical and digital interactions, making it an easy cabin to master only after a few minutes of driving. There's nothing confusing about operating the CX-90.

It's exciting to see 'Inline-Six' badged on the side of this SUV too. It's a fully in-house developed engine, paired to a mild-hybrid system and a unique automatic gearbox.

The CX-90 isn't lightning quick, but it does pack pace when you demand power using that floor-mounted accelerator pedal.

Cornering is a delight too. The CX-90 moves like a powerlifter in casual attire. You might think it's a large and lumpy SUV in the corners, but instead it hides handling talent under its grand exterior.

The lack of a torque converter in place of a mild-hybrid system can allow for some choppy gear changes at low speeds, which can cheapen the luxury appeal of the CX-90. And those larger wheels and dynamic suspension set-up can result in a harsh ride over some ruts and ridges in the road.

What the CX-90 does best is combine the reality of owning a large SUV with the aspiration of owning a car that's actually enjoyable to drive.

The CX-90 is no Porsche Cayenne rival, but it offers a blend between the uber-luxury class of SUVs and practical family 'school buses' at a relatively affordable price. Even if it's Mazda's most expensive vehicle...ever.

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