SUV PHEV Battle: 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV vs. 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

2024 Mazda CX-90

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) SUV? You're in the right place. Join SB Mazda Alexandria, VA. as we compare the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV with the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV.

Powertrain and Performance

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

2024 CX-90 PHEV powertrain
  • Engine & Power: The CX-90 PHEV is Mazda’s first entry into the PHEV market. Utilizing a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, the CX-90 PHEV delivers a robust 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
  • Acceleration: The CX-90 PHEV can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class.
  • Electric Range: Offers an electric-only range of 26 miles, ideal for most daily commutes.
  • Fuel Economy: Combines a fuel economy of 56 MPGe/25 mpg, balancing power and efficiency.
  • Driving Dynamics: Features Standard AWD and Mazda's Kinematic Posture Control for enhanced handling around the corners.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

  • Engine & Power: The Santa Fe PHEV employs a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 261 horsepower.
  • Acceleration: While not as powerful as the CX-90, it still delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, especially in EV mode.
  • Electric Range: Surpasses the CX-90 with an electric-only range of 31 miles.
  • Fuel Economy: Impressive 76 MPGe in electric mode and 33 mpg in hybrid mode.
  • Driving Dynamics: Known for comfort, with standard all-wheel drive, downhill brake control, and an electronic parking brake for enhanced practicality and safety.

Interior and Comfort

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Interior of the 2024 Mazda CX-90
  • Interior Quality: Mazda aims for luxury with high-quality materials like genuine leather upholstery, including Nappa leather in higher trims. The interior features stitching inspired by Japanese bookbinding, giving it a refined feel.
  • Space: Offers seating for up to eight (seven with captain’s chairs), with 39.4 inches of legroom in the second row and 30.4 inches in the third row.
  • Infotainment: Equipped with either a 10.25-inch or a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display.
  • Cargo Capacity: Provides 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

2023 Hyundai SANTA FE PHEV Interior
  • Interior Quality: The Santa Fe PHEV emphasizes quality, especially in the Limited trim, which includes leather seating surfaces, heated/ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
  • Space: With two-row seating, the Santa Fe comfortably accommodates five passengers. Rear legroom is generous at 39.5 inches.
  • Infotainment: Features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with dynamic voice recognition, over-the-air updates, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is also standard.
  • Cargo Capacity: Matches the rest of the Santa Fe lineup with 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.1 cubic feet with them folded, despite the larger battery.

Technology and Features

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

wireless charging pad 2024 cx-90
  • Key Features: Includes wireless phone integration, a digital driver display, a powered tailgate, Mazda Connect, a head-up display, and heated second-row seats.
  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Offers a suite of safety features designed to keep you and your passengers away from harm.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

2023 SANTA FE PHEV buttons
  • Key Features: Boasts Hyundai Digital Key, Highway Driving Assist, a hands-free tailgate with auto-open, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
  • ADAS: Includes advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control with navigation-linked functionality, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Driving Assist as standard.

Concluding Thoughts

Both the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offer compelling features for anyone in the market for a compact SUV. While the CX-90 PHEV is a powerhouse with impressive luxury and convenience, the Santa Fe PHEV offers excellent range and technology. Ready to take the next step? Learn more about our Mazda vehicles or schedule a test drive today at SB Mazda Alexandria, VA. Give us a call and discover your next ride!