Blog

Mazda CX-90 vs. BMW X5: A Luxury SUV Showdown

Mazda CX-90

Mazda CX-90 vs. BMW X5: A Luxury SUV Showdown

If you’re considering a luxury SUV in New Bern, NC, the Mazda CX-90 and BMW X5 are two standout options. Both offer premium styling, impressive performance, and advanced technology—but which one delivers the best value?

At Mazda of New Bern, we’re breaking down key differences in performance, technology, safety, and overall value to help you make the right choice.

From luxury materials to advanced driver assistance features, this side-by-side comparison will show why so many BMW owners are rethinking their next purchase and considering the Mazda CX-90.

Overview: Trims, Powertrains, and Pricing

2025 Mazda CX-90

Mazda’s flagship SUV, the CX-90, offers a range of trims and powertrains designed to cater to diverse preferences:

  • Starting MSRP: $37,845
  • Trims and Powertrains:
    • 3.3 Turbo Select: 280-hp, 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 engine with i-ACTIV AWD®
    • 3.3 Turbo Preferred: Enhanced features with the same robust engine
    • 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport: Luxury upgrades and advanced technology
    • 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus: Top-tier amenities for a premium experience
    • 3.3 Turbo S Premium: 340-hp, 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 engine for increased performance
    • 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus: Flagship model with all available features
    • PHEV Preferred: Plug-in hybrid with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
    • PHEV Premium Sport: Enhanced hybrid features and luxury touches
    • PHEV Premium Plus: Top-tier plug-in hybrid model

2025 BMW X5

The BMW X5 continues its legacy with a lineup that emphasizes performance and luxury:

  • Starting MSRP: $66,300
  • Trims and Powertrains:
    • sDrive40i: 375-hp, 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 engine with rear-wheel drive
    • xDrive40i: All-wheel drive variant of the sDrive40i
    • xDrive50e: Plug-in hybrid combining a 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 with an electric motor, delivering a combined 483 hp
    • M60i: 523-hp, 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 engine for high-performance enthusiasts
    • M Competition: Top-of-the-line performance with exclusive features

Unique Highlights

  • Mazda CX-90:
    • Standard i-ACTIV AWD®: Ensures optimal traction and handling across all trims.
    • Diverse Seating Configurations: Options for 6, 7, or 8 passengers, accommodating various family sizes and needs.
    • Premium Interior Materials: Available Nappa leather and real wood accents elevate the cabin’s luxury feel.
  • BMW X5:
    • Advanced Performance Options: High-output engines, especially in the M60i and M Competition trims, cater to those seeking exhilarating drives.
    • Plug-in Hybrid Efficiency: The xDrive50e offers an all-electric range of up to 40 miles, blending performance with eco-conscious driving.

Performance & Powertrain: Luxury Meets Efficiency

Mazda CX-90BMW X5
  • • 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 engine – 280 hp / 332 lb-ft torque (standard)
  • • 3.3L Turbo S Inline-6 engine – 340 hp / 369 lb-ft torque (higher trims)
  • • Available Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) with 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
  • • Standard i-ACTIV AWD for enhanced traction
  • • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • • 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 engine – 375 hp / 398 lb-ft torque (standard)
  • • 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (M60i) – 523 hp / 553 lb-ft torque
  • • Plug-in Hybrid (xDrive50e) – 483 hp combined
  • • Standard xDrive AWD
  • • 8-speed automatic transmission

Winner: The BMW X5 offers more power in its high-performance trims, but the Mazda CX-90 delivers turbocharged performance, AWD standard, and a plug-in hybrid option at a significantly lower price.

Technology & Interior: Premium Features Without the Premium Price

Mazda CX-90BMW X5
  • • Upscale interior with Nappa leather and real wood trim
  • • Available captain’s chairs for second-row comfort
  • • 12.3-inch center display with Mazda Connect infotainment
  • • Available Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system
  • • 75.2 cu. ft. of cargo space
  • • Standard synthetic leather (SensaTec) with optional Merino leather
  • • 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with iDrive 8
  • • Available Harman Kardon® premium audio system
  • • 72.3 cu. ft. of cargo space

Winner: The Mazda CX-90 offers premium materials and high-end features without the luxury price tag of the BMW X5.

Pricing & Value: A Luxury SUV Without the Luxury Price Tag

FeatureMazda CX-90BMW X5
Starting MSRP$37,845$66,300
AWD StandardYesYes
Turbo Inline-6YesYes
Plug-in Hybrid AvailableYesYes
Premium MaterialsYes (Nappa Leather, Real Wood)Yes (Optional)
Warranty5 years / 60,000 miles4 years / 50,000 miles

Winner: With a starting MSRP nearly $25,000 lower, the Mazda CX-90 delivers luxury, performance, and technology at a much better value.

Test Drive the Mazda CX-90 at Mazda of New Bern!

Looking for a luxury SUV with unbeatable value? Experience the Mazda CX-90 at Mazda of New Bern, serving drivers in New Bern, Jacksonville, Morehead City, and beyond.

Recommended Posts

2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Why Choose the Mazda MX-5 Miata for Open-Air Driving in North Carolina

Drivers dreaming of cruising winding roads with the top down will find their perfect match in the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Mazda designed this iconic convertible to deliver an engaging and rewarding experience. North Carolina's scenic backroads and mild weather make the drive even better. Reach out to the team at Mazda of New Bern to discover how this roadster can elevate your daily commute. more What Makes the Mazda MX-5 Miata a True Driver's Car Mazda engineered the MX-5 Miata around a simple concept. The connection between driver and road must feel natural. This sports car delivers responsive handling, making every turn feel intentional. You can enjoy the drive commuting through town or exploring the countryside. A lightweight design and low center of gravity give the roadster a nimble, planted feel. The car prioritizes precision over raw power, providing a driving experience that reminds you why you love being behind the wheel. Two Ways to Enjoy the Open Air The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata offers two distinct configurations. The classic soft-top version provides a traditional roadster experience, allowing you to drop the roof in seconds. The MX-5 Miata RF features a retractable fastback roof folding away at the touch of a button. Both versions deliver a spirited sports car experience and a sleek appearance, standing out in any parking lot. They also feature seamless technology like Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© to keep you connected on the go. Safety You Can Count On Choosing a fun vehicle does not require sacrificing safety. Consumer Reports© named Mazda the Safest New-Car Brand. The manufacturer also consistently leads the industry in IIHS© TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards. This commitment to driver protection runs through every model. Thoughtful safety engineering adds a vital layer of confidence to every drive. Fuel Efficiency That Goes the Distance The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata achieves an EPA-estimated 29 miles per gallon combined. Weekend road trips across North Carolina require fewer stops at the gas station. This efficiency in a two-seat roadster lets you chase the horizon without constantly watching the fuel gauge. Mazda perfectly balances performance and practicality. Visit Your Mazda Dealer in North Carolina Getting behind the wheel remains the best next step to experience the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Drivers can explore the full 2026 lineup, ask questions, and schedule a test drive at Mazda of New Bern. The open road is calling, and the MX-5 Miata provides the perfect answer. Stop by today to discover what makes this roadster a standout choice for open-air driving in North Carolina.

CX-90 Interior

What Interior Features Make the Mazda CX-90 a Great Three-Row SUV?

Are you searching for a three-row SUV that perfectly blends comfort, advanced technology, and everyday practicality? The Mazda CX-90 demands a closer look. This flagship SUV delivers a refined interior experience that feels significantly more upscale than its competitors. It provides an exceptional choice for families and drivers desiring more from their daily commutes or weekend road trips. Contact our Mazda dealer in New Bern, NC, to learn more about this remarkable vehicle. more A Cabin Designed With Comfort in Mind The Mazda CX-90 interior embraces a driver-focused philosophy called Jinba Ittai, promoting a seamless connection between driver and vehicle. Soft-touch surfaces and available genuine wood trim line the cabin, creating a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. Seating configurations vary by trim. Available semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery adds a genuinely luxurious touch that elevates the vehicle within the three-row SUV segment. Technology That Keeps Everyone Connected The CX-90 features a large 10.25" center display supporting wireless Apple CarPlay© and wireless Android Auto©. Passengers stay connected easily without fumbling for cables. A heads-up display projects key driving information directly into your line of sight. The available Bose© premium audio system delivers rich, concert-quality sound across all three rows. These features make long drives much more enjoyable. Thoughtful Space for All Three Rows A common question regarding any three-row SUV is if the third row provides actual utility. Mazda addressed this by designing the CX-90 with a longer wheelbase to create genuine legroom in both the second and third rows. Second-row passengers enjoy available captain's chairs or a bench seat, depending on the chosen trim. Accessing the third row remains surprisingly easy for a vehicle with such premium positioning. Climate and Ambient Comfort Features The CX-90 interior offers available tri-zone automatic climate control, allowing the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to independently set their preferred temperatures. Select trims offer ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats, making this luxury SUV adaptable to all seasons. Soft ambient interior lighting provides a subtle visual warmth to the cabin at night, establishing an atmosphere that outshines most comparable SUVs. Driver Assistance and Safety Technology Mazda packed the CX-90 with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology. The standard Mazda i-Activsense safety package includes Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, and Driver Attention Alert. An available 360-degree view monitor assists with parking and tight maneuvering. These systems operate quietly in the background, adding confidence without intruding on the calm, driver-centered cabin character. Find the Mazda CX-90 Near You The Mazda CX-90 masterfully combines premium materials, smart technology, and flexible seating to earn its place as a standout luxury SUV. Families needing spacious seating or individuals seeking a refined daily driver will find that the CX-90 interior delivers on its promises. Visit our Mazda dealer in New Bern, NC, to explore the full CX-90 lineup and discover how this three-row SUV perfectly fits your lifestyle.

2026 Mazda CX-50

2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: A Capable, Fuel-Conscious SUV Built for Your Lifestyle

For Eastern North Carolina drivers looking to save at the pump with a hybrid SUV, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid deserves a close look. With its all-wheel drive capability, strong fuel efficiency, and refined interior, it’s a well-rounded option for commuting and brings the possibility of road trips along the North Carolina coast back into the realm of possibility. This guide covers everything New Bern drivers need to know before visiting the showroom. more How the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Performs The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid delivers up to 219 total hp while giving you an impressive 38 MPG combined. That's a meaningful efficiency advantage for anyone doing a lot of daily driving around Craven County. Unlike the standard CX-50, the Hybrid model features an on-demand e-AWD system. This setup pairs an electric motor with the gasoline powertrain to distribute power to the rear wheels when conditions call for it. It's a smart system designed to balance efficiency and traction without adding unnecessary weight. What Makes the Hybrid Different From the Standard CX-50 The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid isn't just a standard CX-50 with a battery pack bolted on. Mazda made thoughtful changes to set it apart. The exterior proportions are slightly revised to accommodate the hybrid powertrain, and the Hybrid carries its own distinct badging, as well as unique 19” alloy wheels. Inside, you'll find unique interior color options  including an available Red leather choice  that aren't offered on the non-hybrid models. With cargo space of up to 56.3 cu. ft., you’ve plenty of room for gear, groceries, or whatever the week ahead requires. Safety Features and Recognition The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid has earned a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, thanks to the robust standard safety features in all 3 trims. These include Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert to enhance awareness, as well as Smart Brake Support to step in when you need it most. More standard features and additional available ones work together to keep you and your passengers safer on the road, whether you're navigating New Bern, North Carolina traffic or merging onto the highway. Technology and Connectivity on the Road Staying connected is easy in the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid—essential for New Bern drivers. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out with controls positioned within easy reach and designed to minimize distraction. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility come standard, so your phone connects seamlessly from the moment you get in. Alexa Built-in lets you manage tasks hands-free, and the MyMazda app gives you remote access to features like engine start, door locks, and vehicle location  all from your smartphone. Why It's a Strong Choice for Eastern NC Drivers The combination of fuel efficiency, standard electronic all-wheel drive, and award-winning safety makes the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid a practical, well-equipped crossover SUV for drivers throughout the region. Whether you're navigating everyday errands or planning a longer road trip, this Mazda hybrid SUV Eastern NC shoppers are considering holds up well across a wide range of driving situations. Come See the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid in New Bern, NC If the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid sounds like the right fit, the team at Mazda of New Bern, NC, is ready to help you explore your options. You can browse current inventory, compare trim levels, and schedule a test drive online at Mazda of New Bern. Seeing it in person is the best way to experience what makes this hybrid crossover worth your attention.