The Mazda CX-90, a stylish and family-friendly SUV, has become a favorite among parents thanks to its spacious interior, advanced features, and versatile car seat configurations. Replacing the CX-9, the CX-90 offers a three-row setup with various powertrain options, including two turbocharged inline-six engines and a plug-in hybrid version. But how well are Mazda CX-90 car seats accomodated?
Here’s a breakdown of how the 2025 model performs in real-world car seat tests.
Second Row: A Solid Choice for Families
Latch System: Grade A
Mazda CX-90 car seats excel in the second row with an accessible and easy-to-use Latch system. The lower anchors are tucked under flip-off covers, making them quick to locate, while the top tether anchors are clearly marked on the seatbacks.
Infant Seat: Grade A
Installing an infant seat is a breeze in the second row. With ample legroom, even taller front passengers won’t feel cramped.
Rear-Facing Convertible: Grade A
Rear-facing convertible Mazda CX-90 car seats fit just as easily as infant seats without compromising space for the front passengers.
Forward-Facing Convertible: Grade A
After removing the head restraint, the forward-facing convertible fits securely. Connecting to the Latch and tether anchors is straightforward, ensuring a snug and safe installation.
Booster Seat: Grade B
While the booster seat fits well, the short buckle stalks could be tricky for children to use independently. Removing the head restraint ensures the seat sits flush against the backrest, improving overall fit.
Third Row: Limited Flexibility
Third-Row Access: Grade B
Accessing the third row can be a challenge. The second-row seats slide and tilt, creating a narrow opening suitable for kids but not ideal for adults. Alternatively, climbing between the second-row seats is possible, though tight spaces or a center console in some configurations might block the way.
Third-Row Latch System: Grade A
The third row features a set of lower anchors on the passenger side, which are exposed and easy to use. Tether anchors are present on the seatbacks for Mazda CX-90 car seats, but the middle tether is buried in the carpet, complicating installation.
Forward-Facing Convertible: Grade C
The third row struggles to accommodate a forward-facing convertible. Fixed head restraints interfere with the seat’s positioning, making securing the seat flush against the backrest difficult. Legroom is tight, and routing the tether strap around the head restraint can be confusing for parents.
Booster Seat: Grade C
Booster seats face similar challenges in the third row, with fixed head restraints impacting fit and floppy buckles that are hard for children to manage. Limited legroom makes the third row less comfortable for longer journeys.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 shines in the second row, offering excellent space, easy-to-use Latch anchors, and good car seat compatibility. However, the third row poses challenges for parents needing to install forward-facing convertibles or booster seats, with issues like limited legroom and headrest interference.
For families primarily relying on the second row for car seats, the CX-90 is an excellent choice. If frequent use of the third row for child seats is required, it may be worth considering other options.
Tips for Parents
- Know Your Anchors: The CX-90 provides flexible installation options with its Latch system and seat belts. Familiarise yourself with the car’s manual to ensure proper use.
- Plan Seat Placement: Use the spacious second row for most Mazda CX-90 car seats and reserve the third row for older children or occasional use.
- Adjust for Comfort: Remove head restraints where necessary to improve car seat fit, but ensure they’re securely stored for future use.
Whether you’re a growing family or just need extra space, the Mazda CX-90 offers a well-rounded experience with standout features for safety and convenience.
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