Mazda Premium Explained: How the CX-90 Competes With Luxury SUVs on Technology

Buyers in Burnaby cross-shopping a three-row SUV often end up comparing Mazda against entry luxury nameplates, and the comparison holds up better than some expect. Rather than launching a separate luxury brand, Mazda has built its case for the CX-90 around technology, materials, and driving dynamics that are standard equipment rather than paid upgrades on many rival badges.

For buyers who've already narrowed their search to the CX-90 and are deciding which trim makes sense, understanding what each level adds — and how it stacks up against the features luxury shoppers expect — makes the decision easier.

CX-90 GS: The Foundation

The GS trim starts with the mechanical case for Mazda's premium positioning. It's built on Mazda's Large Platform with double wishbone front suspension, a multilink rear end, and standard i-Activ AWD, paired with Mazda's Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) technology, which suppresses body lift through corners to help keep the ride composed. The GS engine produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque from a 3.3-litre turbocharged inline six with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist.

• Standard i-Activ AWD and KPC technology for composed, stable handling
• Eight-passenger seating with second and third-row bench configurations
• A foundation that already includes the driving dynamics luxury shoppers look for, before adding a single option package

Best for: Buyers who want the CX-90's driving character and space without paying for upper-trim styling extras.

CX-90 GT: Where the Technology Case Builds

Moving up to GT adds the features that typically separate a mainstream SUV from an entry luxury one. The GT trim includes a 12.3-inch centre display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a power panoramic moonroof, Bose premium audio with 12 speakers, and a head-up Active Driving Display. Exterior touches include LED front signature lighting, an Adaptive Front Lighting System, and 21-inch alloy wheels.

• 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration
• Bose 12-speaker premium audio and a head-up Active Driving Display
• Expanded i-Activsense safety features, including a 360° View Monitor and Blind Spot Monitoring with Vehicle Exit Warning

Best for: Buyers who want the full technology suite — screen size, audio, and driver-assist features — without moving to a higher-output engine.

CX-90 GT-P: Performance to Match the Materials

The GT-P trim pairs the CX-90's high-output engine — 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel — with black or white Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a power panoramic moonroof, and three-zone automatic climate control. Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist joins the safety suite standard on GT.

• High-output 3.3 L turbocharged inline six: 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque
• Nappa leather seating with heated and ventilated front seats
• Three-zone automatic climate control with third-row AC vents

Best for: Buyers who want both the engine output and cabin materials associated with a luxury-tier SUV.

CX-90 Signature: The Top of the Lineup

At the top of the range, the Signature trim adds Pure White Nappa leather with Maple Wood accents, Mazda's Kakenui stitching pattern, and an available Windsor Tan interior with Grand Luxe Suede panels. It's also the only trim with Mazda's Driver Personalization System and a fully digital 12.3-inch TFT instrument display, alongside the most complete i-Activsense suite, including Secondary Collision Reduction and a 360° View Monitor with See-Through View.

• Nappa leather with Maple Wood cabin accents and Kakenui stitching detail
• Driver Personalization System with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display
• The most complete i-Activsense safety suite in the CX-90 lineup

Best for: Buyers who want the closest match to a luxury flagship cabin, without leaving the Mazda badge.

Comparing the CX-90 Trims

Your New CX-90 Is Waiting

No matter which CX-90 trim fits your priorities, Mazda Premium is built into the standard equipment list at every level. Visit our sales team at Metrotown Mazda in Burnaby to secure yours today and see which trim lines up with the luxury features that matter most to you.