2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Nissan Armada

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 was a testament to Mazda's ambition to elevate its brand into the luxury segment. It borrowed the elegant design language from its smaller siblings, the CX-30 and CX-5, and expanded it into a more imposing form. The CX-90's exterior was characterized by a large grille, wide-set front end, and substantial wheels, all of which contributed to its commanding presence. Inside, the top-tier models offered an interior that rivaled luxury brands, with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic accents. The CX-90 was available in 11 different trims, each benefiting from Mazda's stylish design and comfortable layout, although the higher trims truly showcased the brand's luxury aspirations.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Armada presented a bold and business-like exterior, reminiscent of its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80. The high beltline and large grille gave it a striking presence, while the new C-shaped LED lighting added a modern touch. The Armada's side profile was defined by a parallel beltline and distinctive D-pillar accents, with the PRO-4X trim emphasizing its rugged character through black plastic cladding and unique design elements. Inside, the Armada offered a premium feel, even in the more utilitarian PRO-4X trim, with leather seats and a well-appointed cabin. The Platinum Reserve trim elevated the luxury experience with features like quilted leather and a sophisticated color scheme, making the Armada a compelling choice for those seeking both style and substance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The base turbo I6 delivered 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the Turbo S variant increased output to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90's driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Off-Road—allowed for varied driving experiences, with Sport mode enhancing the engine's roar and performance. The PHEV model combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 17.8-kWh battery and a 68-kW electric motor, producing 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It offered an all-electric range of 26 miles and an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe in combined driving. Both powertrains provided impressive handling, with the CX-90's larger platform and double-wishbone front suspension contributing to its agility.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, inspired by the high-performance GT-R, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous seven-speed, and all trims except the PRO-4X offered rear-wheel drive or Nissan's Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive. The PRO-4X trim was equipped with off-road features like an electronic locking rear differential and metal skid plates. The Armada's adaptive electronic air suspension, available on the PRO-4X and Platinum Reserve trims, provided additional ride height and improved off-road capabilities. The Armada's towing capacity reached 8,500 pounds, with standard trailer sway control and other towing aids. On-road, the Armada's electric power steering offered a balanced feel, while the adaptive air suspension enhanced comfort. Off-road, the PRO-4X's suspension and Mud/Rut mode excelled in challenging conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered a variety of seating configurations across its trims. Lower-level Turbo and PHEV models could seat eight passengers, while mid-level trims featured captain's chairs for a seven-seat layout. The Turbo S trim had a two-seat third row, with the base trim seating seven and higher trims seating six. Cargo space varied slightly depending on the seating configuration, with a maximum of 75.2 cubic feet available. The CX-90's interior was thoughtfully designed, with ample storage options and high-quality materials, providing a comfortable and stylish environment.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a push-button transmission, freeing up center console space for a wireless charging pad in all but the base SV trim. The Armada's "Zero Gravity" seats offered comfort, with varying levels of power adjustment across trims. Heated front seats were standard from the SL trim, with cooling and second-row heating available on higher trims. The Armada's three-row seating included a standard second-row bench, with captain's chairs available on Platinum trims. Cargo volume increased across the board, with a maximum of 97.1 cubic feet available. The Armada's interior offered a mix of comfort and practicality, with thoughtful design elements enhancing the overall experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on minimizing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, which used a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the system's quirks could be distracting. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition, adjusting settings to individual profiles. Standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with wireless capability in higher trims, provided familiar and user-friendly interfaces.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured dual large screens, with 12.3-inch displays on lower trims and 14.3-inch screens on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with six USB-C ports. The SL trim added a wireless charging pad and Google Built-In, allowing for native Google Maps integration. A head-up display was optional from the SL trim, and a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio System was standard from the SL trim. The Armada's technology offerings provided a modern and connected experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, Mazda's suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This included features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The top-spec Turbo S Premium Plus trim added cruising and traffic support, blending lane-centering with adaptive cruise control. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well based on the CX-9's accolades.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured Nissan's ProPILOT Assist suite, with varying levels of technology across trims. The basic version included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, while ProPILOT Assist 1.1 added proactive speed management. The most advanced version, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, offered hands-free highway-driving assist. Nissan Safety Shield 360 was standard, with features like traffic-sign recognition and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims included a surround-view camera and Nissan's 3D Around View Monitor, enhancing safety and visibility.