2024 Mazda CX-90 vs Hyundai Palisade - Worth the $10k Difference?

Summary

In this comparison of the Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai Palisade, the reviewers dive into handling, comfort, and value. The Mazda is praised for its sporty driving experience, with excellent cornering and rear-biased all-wheel drive, while the Hyundai is favored for its comfort and smoother ride, especially for those on winter tires. Despite the Palisade's lower price, the Mazda’s premium features and performance make it a compelling choice. The video concludes with a teaser for a future review of the plug-in hybrid CX-90, leaving the door open for more options in the lineup.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has a more powerful 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 hybrid engine, producing 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, offering strong acceleration and driving performance.
• 😀 The Hyundai Palisade, with its 3.8L naturally aspirated V6, produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, delivering a smoother but slower driving experience compared to the Mazda.
• 😀 The Mazda CX-90's interior is described as premium with high-quality materials, but the seats are firm, and some of the tech, like the rotary dial infotainment, can be less intuitive.
• 😀 The Hyundai Palisade stands out in terms of comfort with its softer Nappa leather seats, more spacious third-row seating, and user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system.
• 😀 Both SUVs are all-wheel drive, but the Mazda has a more rear-biased system, making it feel sportier in performance, while the Palisade is more front-biased and provides a more stable ride.
• 😀 The Mazda CX-90 offers a more engaging driving experience, particularly in handling corners with less body roll, though it may not be as comfortable for everyday driving.
• 😀 The Hyundai Palisade is more practical for families, offering more third-row space, better cargo capacity, and overall passenger comfort.
• 😀 Mazda's 2024 CX-90 features modern luxury elements like a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control, though some systems (like lane-centering) can be overly cautious.
• 😀 The Hyundai Palisade offers advanced tech features like turn signal cameras and automatic parking, enhancing convenience and ease of use in daily driving.
• 😀 In terms of fuel economy, the Mazda CX-90 is more efficient, returning 28 mpg combined, but it requires premium fuel, whereas the Palisade, while using regular fuel, delivers only 21 mpg combined.
• 😀 The Mazda CX-90 is priced higher at $63,950 CAD in top trim, while the Hyundai Palisade Urban Edition starts at $53,199 CAD, making the Hyundai a more affordable option with similar luxury features.

Q & A

What are the main performance differences between the Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai Palisade?

The Mazda CX-90 has a more powerful engine, with 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 3.3L inline-six, offering a more dynamic and engaging drive. In comparison, the Hyundai Palisade has a 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, making it less powerful but more oriented toward comfort and stability.

How does the driving experience of the Mazda CX-90 differ from that of the Hyundai Palisade?

The Mazda CX-90 offers a more responsive and sporty driving experience, with rear-biased all-wheel drive, better handling, and reduced body roll. It’s more suited for enthusiastic driving. The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort with its front-biased all-wheel drive and more relaxed handling, making it better for those seeking a smooth, stable ride.

What is the significance of the Mazda CX-90's rear-biased all-wheel-drive system?

The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system in the Mazda CX-90 enhances its handling and performance, making it feel more agile and sportier. It offers better cornering capabilities and overall dynamics, which is beneficial for drivers who enjoy a more connected driving experience.

How does the Hyundai Palisade's interior comfort compare to the Mazda CX-90?

The Hyundai Palisade offers superior comfort, particularly in the rear seats and third-row. It has more space, including features like a reclining second row and lumbar support. In contrast, the Mazda CX-90 has a more premium interior but sacrifices some comfort for sporty handling, with a tighter third-row space and a firmer ride.

Which vehicle offers better third-row seating and why?

The Hyundai Palisade excels in third-row seating, offering more space, better headroom, and legroom, making it a more comfortable option for adults or taller passengers. The Mazda CX-90, while offering three rows, is less spacious in the third row, making it better suited for children or shorter trips.

How do the two vehicles compare in terms of fuel economy?

The Mazda CX-90 is more fuel-efficient, offering 28 mpg combined, thanks to its mild-hybrid turbocharged engine. However, it requires premium fuel. The Hyundai Palisade delivers 21 mpg combined and uses regular fuel, which may result in lower fuel costs for everyday use.

What role does the Mazda CX-90’s premium features play in its appeal?

The Mazda CX-90’s premium features, including its luxurious interior, high-resolution 360-degree camera, rotary dial controller, and advanced tech, position it as a more upscale option. These features attract buyers looking for a more refined and sophisticated driving experience, particularly in terms of aesthetics and in-car technology.

What is the price difference between the top trims of the Mazda CX-90 and Hyundai Palisade?

The Mazda CX-90 in its top trim costs CAD $63,950, reflecting its premium features and luxury appeal. In comparison, the Hyundai Palisade Urban Edition is priced at CAD $53,199, making it about $10,000 cheaper, offering better value for buyers looking for comfort and practicality at a lower price.

What specific driving traits make the Mazda CX-90 more 'fun to drive' compared to the Hyundai Palisade?

The Mazda CX-90 is described as more 'fun to drive' due to its sharper handling, rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, and dynamic suspension, which allows for a more engaging and responsive driving experience. It can navigate corners with more agility and feels more connected to the road than the more comfort-oriented Hyundai Palisade.

What are the key selling points of the Hyundai Palisade Urban Edition?

The Hyundai Palisade Urban Edition stands out with its aggressive design, featuring a blacked-out grille and wheels. It also offers superior interior space, especially in the third row, along with a focus on comfort, ease of use, and practicality. The more affordable price makes it an attractive option for families looking for a spacious, well-equipped three-row SUV.