2025 Mazda CX-90 PLUG-IN Hybrid

After driving >2000 miles or about a month, I could hear a loud, grunting/grinding noise when accelerating aggressively from 1st to 2nd gear when on EV or gas mode. Brought the vehicle at the dealership service department 4 times already, each time MAZDA Headquarters in California confirmed that this is a known and documented condition. According to Mazda, the grunt noise you’re hearing when the vehicle shifts from first to second gear under medium to aggressive throttle is considered normal operation. It has been determined that this does not affect the drivability or reliability of the vehicle, and it is safe to drive. The transmission is operating as designed and performing within normal parameters. Mazda is continuing to collect data on this condition as part of their ongoing commitment to improvement. However, I totally disagreed to their answer and that the truth is that they don't know how to fix it, unless tearing down completely the transmission to find out what the cause is! I feel it is a safety problem as explained by a top transmission repair shop: "In most cases, a loud, grunting or grinding noise when accelerating from 1st to 2nd gear would likely be considered a defect that substantially impairs the vehicle's use and could also affect safety, particularly under the context of Oregon's Lemon Law. Here's why: •Impact on Use: Grinding and grunting noises suggest that the transmission is not functioning properly, according to Top Notch Transmissions. This makes the vehicle less reliable and less enjoyable to drive. If the problem persists or worsens, it can hinder the vehicle's ability to operate safely and effectively, potentially leading to hard or delayed shifting, or even transmission failure."

The day after purchase, with 216 miles on the odometer, a major failure of the hybrid electrical system occurred. The car immediately shut down, not allowing the car to be moved (it could not be shifted out of "Park"). The message indicated that a high voltage leakage was detected and that the system was hazardous. It required a tow to the dealer. The dealer's service center cleared the error and refused to take further action. If this should happen again, on a busy street, serious injury could result.