When it comes to three-row SUVs, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2024 Mazda CX-90 are among the top choices. The fifth-generation Santa Fe features refreshed and bold styling, while the CX-90 debuted in the segment this year. Like the Santa Fe, the CX-90 is an excellent upgrade in passenger and cargo capacities.
The Santa Fe and the CX-90 offer an exciting driving experience and impressive luxury features. But which one should you buy? Let’s have a Santa Fe vs. CX-90 comparison to help determine which three-row SUV is the best. We’ll examine each vehicle’s interior, safety features, and performance. After that, we’ll let you know which one you should choose.
The 2024 Santa Fe’s new look goes beyond appearances. It has a longer wheelbase and three-row seating configuration. Its third row can comfortably accommodate adults, while the third row of the 2024 CX-90 is better suited for children.
Second-row captain’s chairs are also available for the 2024 Santa Fe and the 2024 CX-90. For a business-class experience, the bench seat is replaced by two individual power-adjustable seats with armrests. Trunk space with all the seats up is similar in both models. However, when the second and third rows are folded, the Santa Fe gains bigger cargo space at 79.6 cubic feet, compared to the Mazda’s 74.2 cubic feet.
The 2024 Santa Fe’s dashboard has two 12.3-inch displays under a single sheet of glass. A digital instrument cluster is located directly in front of the driver. Using a second touch-enabled display, you can control the car’s Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ on the infotainment system. SiriusXM and HD Radio are also standard on all Santa Fe trims. The cabin has USB charging ports and a 12-volt power outlet at the front and cargo compartment. Most of these interior features are also available in the 2024 CX-90.
Both SUVs come standard with a tri-zone climate control system and air vents. The front seats are also power-adjustable and heated. Moreover, buyers can choose between a heads-up display, premium sound systems, and rear entertainment systems.
Hyundai offers two engine options for the 2024 Santa Fe: a regular engine and a hybrid engine. Regular powertrains come with powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines, which produce 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. A dual-clutch eight-speed automatic gearbox drives the front wheels. Manual gear selection is available on some trims via paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Additionally, Hyundai offers its HTRAC all-wheel-drive system for better traction on slippery or snowy surfaces.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine coupled with an electric motor. All-wheel drive is the only option available for this variant. Hyundai claims the system produces 226 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
Meanwhile, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 range has a 3.3-liter in-line six-cylinder engine. It’s Mazda’s first engine with two outputs available. Trims without the S badge produce 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. When running on regular pump gas, the S trim produces 319 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is Mazda’s eight-speed e-SKYACTIV®-DRIVE automatic.
Every 2024 Santa Fe comes standard with Hyundai’s SmartSense safety suite. The system features adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Additionally, automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning are standard. Meanwhile, the 2024 CX-90 offers some of these as optional features.
There are child safety locks on both SUVs’ rear doors. A stability control system, tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lamps are also included.
With its smooth ride, thoughtful cabin, and bold design, the 2024 Santa Fe is a solid choice. Additionally, the powertrains are simplified, and there are better safety features. With these features, the 2024 Santa Fe is the better choice for your next family SUV.
At Tuscaloosa Hyundai, we can also provide you with information about the new Hyundai Santa Fe range. Our convenient location in Tuscaloosa, AL, makes it easy to find us, and we can help you decide which trim level is right for you. We’ll even schedule you for a test drive. You can also take advantage of our 2024 Santa Fe specials.
