MODEL
Mazda CX-90
NHTSA safety across every Mazda CX-90 model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Mazda CX-90 we cover (2025 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 96 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2025 at 89. 2 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row midsize SUV aimed squarely at families who want premium refinement without paying a luxury-brand premium. Positioned as Mazda's flagship crossover, it competes in a crowded segment against established three-row heavyweights. For 2025, it carries Mazda's signature driver-focused philosophy into larger, more practical territory, making it a genuine alternative for buyers who prioritize a polished experience.
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 earns a Strong-band MotorCaliber Safety Index score of 89 out of 100, which is a genuinely competitive result in the midsize three-row SUV segment. The crash-test breakdown tells a nuanced story. The side-impact score of 5 out of 5 stars is excellent and reflects well-engineered occupant protection in that critical test. The frontal and rollover scores, both at 4 out of 5 stars, are solid but leave a small gap compared to the best performers in this class. Shoppers with taller seating positions should note that rollover ratings in the 4-star range are common among SUVs, but it is worth acknowledging rather than glossing over. On the recall front, two recalls across the 2025 model year is a modest figure for a relatively new nameplate, and neither alone signals a systemic safety crisis. Still, buyers should verify that any pre-owned or dealer-lot example has had outstanding recall work completed before purchase. Owner complaints total 20 for the 2025 model year, a low absolute number. One reported crash is logged in that pool, though NHTSA notes these are unverified allegations. No fires, injuries, or fatalities are reported. The complaint volume does not suggest an emerging safety pattern at this time. Bottom line: the CX-90's safety profile is genuinely strong, anchored by a perfect side-crash score and a high overall index. The frontal and rollover scores keep it just short of elite status.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the CX-90 as one of the more refined and driver-oriented choices in the three-row midsize SUV segment, praising its upscale interior character and composed driving dynamics. Most professional assessments position it as a strong value proposition at the higher end of the mainstream market, though some note that third-row practicality trails certain competitors.
- The 2025 CX-90 scores a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in side-impact crash testing, which is one of the most important real-world collision scenarios for a family-hauling SUV.
- Frontal and rollover protection both come in at 4 out of 5 stars, meaning the CX-90 is safe but has not yet matched the best-in-class scores some rivals achieve across all three test categories.
- Two recalls have been issued for the 2025 model year. Before taking delivery of any CX-90, confirm with the dealer or check the NHTSA VIN lookup tool that all recall repairs have been completed.
- Owner-reported complaints are low at 20 total, with one reported crash and zero fires, injuries, or fatalities. This is a reassuring early signal, but the 2025 model year is still accumulating real-world data, so monitoring the NHTSA complaints database periodically is worthwhile.
Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Mazda CX-90 with 2 recalls.