2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV extended review

Big and little at the same time! I'm a fan of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV. 

The appearance of this vehicle is striking! Not because of boldness but the refined, confident, strong vibes it gives off. It is clearly a MAZDA! 

My test vehicle secured via DriveShop NYC arrived in the "pearl white" color. The CX-90 PHEV is a 7 passenger vehicle but handles and drives much smaller. 

At slow speeds it can feel tankish, however the performance is there to quickly move you along. Multiple driving modes (Sport, Normal, EV, Off-Road) are noticeable when engaged. The majority of the time was spent in normal mode and the functionality was fine. 

I enjoyed the seating surfaces, they were firm and comfortable. The rear "Captain chairs" were a big hit with the passengers. The drivers side is equipped with lumbar support and multifunctional/positional features. 

Lots of cup holders of various sizes suitable for beverage types for the 7 passengers. 

The CX-90 PHEV ergonomics make it easy for the driver to navigate the technology and preparing the vehicle for the road. 

The infotainment cluster is good, with lots of options. The connectivity with the Bluetooth was a bit wonky. Once connected there was a lengthy delay in making changes from station to station. Possibly a wifi issue but it happened on multiple occasions in different locations. 

I found the cameras to be very good and the birdseye/above the vehicle view is a fantastic addition especially when parallel parking. This along with the vehicles outward site lines, large windows and technology assists in making the CX-90 PHEV feel smaller, and the driver to feel safe and secure. 

The moon roof is a big hit for me. The functionality and operation were simple. The aerodynamics of the CX-90 PHEV are on display when the moon roof is is open. Hearing and communication with passengers was easy and comfortable.

On the road and at home charging options for EV's is growing.  EV's have some charging accessories included.  A large aftermarket network is available for those who do not want OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) products.  BE CAUTIOUS IN WHAT YOU CHOOSE.

Charging stations are being installed in various areas and more big box retailers are installing multiple units in parking lots.  Some lots are offering premium parking spaces for EV charging.  As the infrastructure continues to develop we will see more and more vehicles and charging stations to accommodate the progress.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/FpKJe3LYJ4Ze2Qoz7

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz extended review

Recently I took the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz for an extended test ride.

My focus was to see the practicality of this SUV with a "pickup" bed.

First off, thank you to Hyundai USA for the access and the team at DriveShop NYC for the service, prompt delivery and pickup.

My vehicle came in the California Sand color, reminiscent of a muted tan or a camel color if you are thinking sport coats.  

The vehicle looks good, I would even say striking.  I don't see many of these on the road and I find that appealing. The angles, lines, lighting, wheel design and color works very well. 

The Santa Cruz appears to sit a bit higher than other SUV's of this size and I noticed this while driving. The view is more open and clear, ALL GOOD!  Additionally the ergonomics to enter and exit the vehicle does not give this impression.

In the cockpit everything feels comfortable and where it should be.  Good ease of use and preparing to drive was a pleasure.  All of the typical amenities you would expect in a 2024 vehicle are here.  Technology including apps, maps and entertainment center are very user friendly and easy to navigate. 

A big highlight for me was the safety features including the lane assist and parking camera's!

Seating surfaces are firm but comfortable. Leg room was fine for riders 6' and under in the front and rear seats.

Performance is very good and plenty for daily driving. Cruising at highway speeds and rolling passes are not an issue.  In fact the turbo is smooth and powerful, easily pinning riders back into the seats.

The "pickup" bed is a good feature and I think more people would take advantage if the industry provided more options.  The Santa Cruz bed is smaller than itscompetitors at 27 cubic feet.  But it works!  I wouldn't load mulch or stone.  However you can carry 5 people comfortably and have room for some gear.  Access to the bed is an issue for me.  No pass through other than the small rear window.

Storage creativity in the doorways and under the rear compartment seats are helpful.  Folding the rear seats in the up position also increases the ability to move cargo in the cabin.

Under the bed provides wet and dry storage with a drain plug.  Good for tailgating.  A rolling bed/rooftop cover provides some bed shelter but the locking mechanism and pull strap were cumbersome to operate. 

Mileage was good ~23 MPG as advertised

Towing capacity of 3500 lbs. (Not tested)

If your looking for comparable vehicles;

Ford Maverick, Chevrolet Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma.

I enjoyed this vehicle. The look, performance and feel all resonate with me.

A bigger bed, a pass through the rear seat would be nice additions.