Comparison between the 2023 Mazda CX-9 and the 2023 Volvo XC90

Most automakers fall into neat categories. The same goes for most of their products.

However, some blur the lines or define their own identities. Mazda, for example, often lines up with other major automakers such as Toyota and Ford. But all of the vehicles it makes emphasize performance in a way that competitors often don’t. Some can even threaten luxury cars when well equipped.

Volvo is often compared to other European luxury car manufacturers such as BMW or Audi. But their products answer a different question, they are known for safety and unique Scandinavian design more than anything else.

So perhaps it shouldn’t be surprising that some shoppers are comparing Mazda’s flagship to Volvo’s. The Mazda CX-9 and Volvo XC90 are unique, while they’re also three-row SUVs with enough room for a family and enough soul to stand out in a parking lot.

Let’s compare them.

2023 Mazda CX-9

Mazda makes cars that are fun to drive. So perhaps Mazda’s greatest achievement is building a car that can carry up to seven passengers and cut a corner. The 2023 Mazda CX-9 has all the sporty spirit of a Mazda but resembles a minivan’s seating. It starts at $38,750.

Mazda CX-9 features

It’s more fun to drive (with standard engines): It’s incredible to think that a mainstream car can be more fun than a luxury car, but the CX-9 is something special. Mazda engineers have created truly excellent steering and suspension systems, and together they make the CX-9 handle like something smaller. Volvo can beat it in a race with more powerful (and more expensive) optional engines, but the Mazda driver will have more fun.

Less expensive: The reason the CX-9 is compared to luxury cars in the first place is the price. Fully equipped, the top-of-the-line CX-9 Signature offers luxuries like heated and ventilated seats (even heated in the second row) and flexible Nappa leather seats — and a loaded CX-9 costs less than an entry-level XC90. . What can you do with the money you saved on your luxuriously equipped, fun-to-drive SUV?

Elegant style and jewel-like colors: The XC90 looks sharp and buttoned up in a three-piece suit. But so is the CX-9 Beautiful. This is something different and may mean that you like the look of your car better in year five. Mazda also does the deep, gem-like paintwork better than Volvo. Volvo offers six shades of gray and one blue.

Check it out this week Fair purchase price Or see Mazda CX-9 models For sale near you.

2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 is an old but great platform. The current version has been Volvo’s best car since 2015. It’s known for its elegant style, spacious cabin, and of course, strong safety scores. Volvo has a new flagship electric car taking its place next year, but the powerful XC90 still has a lot of fans. Prices for the XC90 start at $56,000.

Volvo XC90 features

High security levels: Both vehicles received five stars in government safety tests. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests are a little more difficult. They gave the Mazda CX-9 their second highest award. The XC90 received its highest award, Top Safety Pick+. Volvo still knows what’s best.

A higher level of luxury available: The CX-9 is a well-equipped car in a luxury neighborhood. However, a well-equipped XC90 is still a more luxurious place to spend time. Volvo, for example, can build an adjustable air suspension system. The Mazda’s suspension is excellent, but there’s only one, and it’s mechanical. Volvo will also sell you a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system that beats the Bose system available in the Mazda.

More powerful and PHEV models available: The CX-9’s engine can hold its own against the standard engine in the XC90, but the XC90 has more options. It includes a 295-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 455-hp hybrid powertrain that can travel up to 36 miles on electricity alone. Mazda doesn’t have an answer (yet — its first hybrid, the CX-90, will go on sale soon).

Check it out this week Fair purchase price Or see the Volvo XC90 models For sale near you.

Similarity

Both are 3-row SUVs. They get similar power from their base engines, and a fully equipped CX-9 is just as luxurious as an XC90. Both are also about to see other flagship phones replace them next year, which could help bring down prices.

Conclusion

You might not think the Mazda CX-9 competes with the Volvo XC90. But the well-equipped CX-9 is no less luxurious than the entry-level XC90, and both get five stars in government crash tests. If you’re willing to spend the money for true luxury, Volvo can create some separation with more powerful engines. But do you want to spend this money or keep it for another use and enjoy driving your Mazda?

There is no wrong answer.

Specifications