I Drove the 2025 Mazda CX90 & 2025 Ford Explorer, Which One is Finest? Right here's My Brutally Trustworthy Evaluation

So comparable, but so completely different

I used to be shocked to see that on paper, the Mazda CX-90 and Ford Explorer have been so shut in so some ways. Whereas they each sport completely different powertrains and completely different efficiency numbers, they’re remarkably aggressive when it comes to measurements, options, utility, and even pricing. Nonetheless, they cater to very completely different audiences and have fully completely different personalities.

After driving each automobiles inside days of one another, I got here to a easy conclusion: regardless of their similarities, they’re very completely different automobiles. I used to be in a position to take each automobiles on an analogous route, which included a 200-mile loop from Torrance to Santa Barbara, CA, along with different take a look at drives. For sure, these two automobiles characterize a few of the greatest choices on this class. The query is: which one is greatest for you?

2025 Mazda CX-90 ($38,045 – $56,350)

The Mazda CX-90 lately changed the well-regarded CX-9, however make no mistake, that is a completely completely different machine. Constructed on a brand new rear-wheel-drive-biased platform and powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, the CX-90 attracts comparisons to BMW in each structure and driving dynamics. All fashions include normal all-wheel drive, and Mazda has crafted a world-class three-row SUV that’s balanced, participating to drive, and impressively upscale. Whereas not with out flaws, the CX-90 is a standout effort.

Trims & Pricing

Mazda presents a variety of trims throughout its fuel and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) fashions:

Gasoline fashions:

• Choose Turbo – $38,045
• Most well-liked Turbo – $41,145
• Premium Sport Turbo – $46,600
• Turbo Premium Plus – $49,600
• Turbo S Premium – $53,150
• Turbo S Premium Plus – $56,650

PHEV fashions:

• PHEV Most well-liked – $49,945
• PHEV Premium Sport – $54,900
• PHEV Premium Plus – $57,950

These costs could seem steep for a Mazda, however the CX-90 genuinely competes with luxurious fashions from Europe and Asia, particularly relating to refinement, tech, and driving enjoyment.

Powertrains

There are three distinct powertrains:

3.3L Inline-6 Turbo (Delicate Hybrid)

• 280 hp / 332 lb-ft
• 24 mpg metropolis / 28 mpg freeway

3.3L Inline-6 Turbo S (Delicate Hybrid)

• 340 hp / 369 lb-ft
• 23 mpg metropolis / 28 mpg freeway

2.5L PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid)

• 323 hp / 369 lb-ft
• 26 miles of electric-only vary
• 56 MPGe mixed / 25 mpg gas-only
• Max vary: ~490 miles

Whereas the PHEV presents sturdy specs on paper, it is the least refined of the bunch. It feels heavier, has jerky transitions between electrical and fuel energy, and does not ship a driving expertise that justifies its worth premium. With the bottom Turbo fashions already returning strong gas economic system and offering a easy, responsive drive, the PHEV feels just like the odd one out, notably when you think about the minimal real-world gas financial savings.

2025 Ford Explorer ($39,755 – $54,260)

The 2025 Ford Explorer continues to evolve with improved options, sharp styling, and a broad vary of trims that provide one thing for everybody, from each day household hauling to spirited driving. The tuning of the suspension in each 2025 Explorer I sampled was glorious, with sufficient consolation for easy commuting, and simply sufficient firmness for spirited driving. That is very true with the ST.

Trims & Pricing

• Lively – $39,755
• ST-Line – $44,615
• Platinum – $52,250
• ST – $54,260

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is normal throughout decrease trims, whereas all-wheel drive (AWD) is optionally available on higher trims.

Powertrains

There are two distinct powertrains:

2.3-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder

• 300 hp / 310 lb-ft
• 21 mpg metropolis / 28 mpg freeway
• 10-speed automated transmission

3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6

• 400 hp / 415 lb-ft
• EPA-estimated: 18 mpg metropolis / 25 mpg freeway (RWD) – AWD is about 1mpg much less
• 10-speed automated transmission

The V6-equipped Explorer ST feels extra like a muscular grand tourer than a standard SUV, with sturdy acceleration and a refined, aggressive exhaust observe. The Platinum variant, in the meantime, supplies a extra luxurious spin on that efficiency. To be truthful, the 4-cylinder choice is appropriate for many customers, but it surely has to work laborious to maneuver that bulk round. That is very true when passing, below load.

Which One Ought to You Select?

• Efficiency/Towing: Ford Explorer V6/ST – extra torque, sooner straight-line velocity (0–60 ~5.3 s), increased towing at 5,600 lb (the Mazda maxes out at 5,000-lbs).

• Effectivity & Hybrid Tech: Mazda CX‑90 PHEV – sturdy gas numbers and electrical vary
• Inside Really feel: Mazda CX‑90 – luxury-level supplies and design, Ford has a softer trip
• Area & Performance: Ford Explorer – extra cargo and passenger room
• Tech & Options: Tie – The Ford Explorer for display measurement & BlueCruise, and the Mazda CX‑90 for refined controls & sound

Remaining ideas

Though I naturally gravitate towards the Mazda CX-90 for its fantastically crafted inside, smooth exterior, and general premium end, the Ford Explorer would in the end be my decide. It presents a smoother trip, and its beefy twin-turbo V6 is an absolute powerhouse. As somebody who tows ceaselessly, the Explorer’s superior tow ranking can be a significant benefit. That mentioned, each automobiles are glorious selections, and regardless of which trim you choose from both lineup, you are sure to be rewarded with a succesful, comfy, and feature-rich SUV.