Consumer Reports Ranked This SUV As One Of The Least Reliable (And There's More Than One Reason)

Finding the right SUV in a world of seemingly endless options can be challenging. While there are plenty of seemingly reliable SUVs on the market, it's important to take note of new models deemed unreliable by authoritative sources like Consumer Reports. This independent nonprofit frequently provides information on the most and least reliable products available — including vehicles — and the reasons behind the agency's findings can sometimes surprise you. Recently, Consumer Reports ranked the Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) as one of the least reliable options in its class — and it cited more than one reason for making the decision.

Owners have reported a number of issues with their CX-90 PHEVs, which have ultimately led to its poor ranking as an unreliable model. From EV battery problems to issues with the transmission, complaints from drivers of this model have piled up. Consumer Reports predicts that 2025 CX-90 PHEV SUVs will be less reliable than the average new car, based on its review of the 2024 model. So, before you decide on a Mazda CX-90 PHEV model — and deal with the implications of interest rates on new car payments – you may want to consider the long-term financial and safety implications of Consumer Reports' claims.

In 2024, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration issued 11 recalls for the 2024-25 Mazda CX-90 PHEV and received 120 complaints. Many drivers were concerned by the inaccurate fuel gauge reading, which can cause the SUV to unexpectedly run out of fuel while in traffic — something that can lead to accidents. Another major problem that warranted a recall is that the engine start-stop system would sometimes fail to actually restart the vehicle after shutting down at a stop. Since the Mazda CX-90 is a PHEV, it can run for only a short time on purely electric power. However, the vehicle is at risk of losing drive power when in EV mode as a result of the vehicle's faulty inverter software. Worst of all, this problem requires replacement by a dealer which can be an inconvenience to owners. 

Additionally, the vehicle's automatic braking system is at risk of falsely detecting objects — and applying the brakes unexpectedly as a result — which can similarly make the SUV more prone to accidents. Other recalls for the CX-90 PHEV issued by the NHTSA were for power steering system problems, camera images not displaying properly, and function errors related to the instrument cluster display. All of these issues can lead to higher collision rates and insurance claims — which could subsequently also increase your auto insurance rates.

Despite Consumer Reports ranking the CX-90 PHEV as one of the least reliable SUVs for more than one reason, there are still consumers who appreciate a few of the vehicle's better features. Plus, many of the recalls and problems with this model can be remedied with software updates and fixes at a local dealership — provided you don't mind the inconvenience. Owners on CX-90 forums often say they love how the SUV handles, and rave about its exceptional acceleration and overall performance. The vehicle's fuel economy is another aspect that drivers appreciate about the model, with many claiming to get around 30 miles per gallon, depending on the driving conditions.

With up to 26-miles of EV-only range, some drivers can even get to work and back without having to use any fuel. Drivers also mention the responsive infotainment system and good sound quality as being an advantage of owning the Mazda CX-90 PHEV. However, the CX-90 definitely isn't one of Consumer Reports' best cheap cars – the base MSRP for a 2025 model can range anywhere from $49,945 to $57,950 – so make sure to weigh the pros and cons before you decide if this is the right car for you.