The Mazda CX-90 PHEV: A Luxurious Ride with a Paws for Thought

Discover the Intersection of Luxury and Pet-Friendly Practicality in the Mazda CX-90 PHEV.

Elegant Design Meets Practicality

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV, adorned in its Premium Plus attire, may not exude the aura of an ultra-luxury vehicle, yet it masterfully mimics one. Behind the wheel, the experience is delightful, though our furry companion Bramble showed less enthusiasm. Despite this, the vehicle boasts ample space for a plethora of pet toys and treats.

As a substantial SUV, it comfortably accommodates six passengers, or even eight with strategic seating arrangements. The driving experience is unexpectedly agile for its stature, offering a smooth and luxurious journey. While it's no sports car, the CX-90's nimble nature and plush ride are commendable achievements for its class.

Interior Elegance with a Caveat

The CX-90's cabin features second-row captain's chairs, mirroring the front seating in comfort and style, while a sturdy third-row bench offers additional seating. Even with the third row in use, a modest cargo area remains, though it's not quite spacious enough for pet transport.

The dashboard and center console exude sophistication, with a wide infotainment screen nestled among sleek lines of faux wood and plastic. Touchpoints such as the steering wheel and door handles maintain a premium feel, though the wood trim's soft texture slightly diminishes the illusion of opulence.

Comfort and Concerns for Canine Companions

The CX-90's seats, draped in supple leather, offer a sanctuary of comfort. However, the delicate nature of the material raises concerns about its durability against the rigors of pet travel. While no damage occurred during our time with the vehicle, the leather's vulnerability to wear and tear is a point of caution for pet owners.

Our canine companion, Bramble, made several attempts to ascend the center console, a testament to its robust construction. Yet, the potential for damage from pet interactions remains a lingering worry.

Navigating the Highs and Lows of Entry and Exit

While our athletic dogs had little trouble boarding the CX-90, the elevated rear seats and cargo area may pose challenges for less agile pets. The design prioritizes legroom over ease of access, which could complicate entry and exit for some animals.

Despite this, the SUV offers ample storage for a pet ramp, providing a solution for owners of larger, less nimble pets.

Bramble's Backseat Blues: A Dog's Perspective

Our dog Bramble's reaction to the CX-90 was tepid at best. While some vehicles instantly put her at ease, the Mazda's split rear seating seemed to disrupt her comfort. Typically enjoying the freedom to move with the vehicle's motion, Bramble appeared unsettled when confined to one side of the second row.

However, this may not be an issue for all pets. In fact, the configuration could be advantageous for families traveling with children and a pet, keeping the furry friend securely between the second-row seats.

Driving Dynamics and Dog-Friendly Design

The CX-90 PHEV's steering response is impressively firm, providing a tactile reminder of the driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle glides effortlessly, while hybrid mode delivers robust acceleration when needed.

However, to fully leverage the hybrid system's capabilities, regular charging is essential. The vehicle's battery depletes quickly, and while it manages adequately on a low charge, its performance is noticeably less spirited.

Maneuverability Magic in the Mazda

An unexpected delight in the CX-90 PHEV is its remarkably tight turning radius. The ability to execute sharp maneuvers in a vehicle of this size is a rare and valuable feature, particularly in urban environments where space is at a premium.

Canine Chaos with Captain's Chairs

The presence of second-row captain's chairs introduced an element of disorder when transporting multiple dogs. The pets seemed indecisive, torn between occupying the seats or the floor, leading to a tumultuous ride.

Positioning the dogs in the third row offered a semblance of stability, though they expressed a preference for proximity to the driver. A full complement of passengers, with humans in the second row to accompany the canines in the rear, might present an ideal arrangement.

Kennel Carrying Capabilities

For those who prefer to secure their pets in kennels during travel, the CX-90 can accommodate a large kennel with the third row folded. The second-row seats can also support a medium-sized kennel, though stability is a concern.

With flexible seating configurations, the vehicle can transport a combination of passengers and a contained pet, offering versatility for various travel needs.

Final Verdict on Fido-Friendliness

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV excels as a transporter for up to six individuals, with driving dynamics that infuse personality into the large SUV segment. For those who prioritize driving pleasure alongside passenger capacity, this vehicle merits consideration.

From a practical standpoint, the CX-90 offers generous cargo space, particularly with the rear seats down. While capable of ferrying pets, its design may not be the most conducive to their comfort. The elevated entry points and divided second row may not suit all dogs, and the delicate interior materials could be a source of concern for owners. Nevertheless, with the right accessories and adjustments, the CX-90 can be adapted to better accommodate our furry friends. But for those for whom pet transport is paramount, alternative options may be more fitting.