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Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

76
BUYARY SCORE

Upscale, powerful, and engaging, though its cramped third row and firm ride limit family practicality.

The Mazda CX-90 (2026) is a family SUV for drivers who need three rows but refuse to settle for a bland people-mover. Its standout turbocharged inline-six feels smooth and eager, while standard all-wheel drive and precise handling make it unusually enjoyable on everyday roads. Reviewers generally support Mazda’s premium ambitions, praising the quiet, well-made cabin and strong value against luxury alternatives, though the firm ride, dated infotainment, and occasional low-speed transmission awkwardness hold it back. The third row and cargo area are better for occasional use than constant full occupancy, and the PHEV’s short electric range is useful but less polished. Overall, its value depends on prioritizing driving character over maximum space and serenity.

$39,300.00
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
Mazda CX-90 (2026)
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Benefits

🛋️
Quiet, Upscale Cabin

Supportive seats and a calm highway cabin make long family drives easier to settle into.

Effortless Passing Power

Strong inline-six acceleration makes merging, passing, and loaded road trips feel less demanding.

🌧️
Confident All-Weather Control

Standard all-wheel drive and composed handling make wet or snowy driving feel more secure.

🔌
Short Electric Errands

The PHEV handles many short commutes electrically, cutting fuel use and engine noise around town.

🎛️
Simple Physical Controls

Traditional physical controls make common adjustments easier without digging through touchscreen menus.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Flexible Family Seating

Seven- or eight-seat layouts and useful cargo access adapt to changing family needs.

Trade-Offs

🪑
Tight Third Row

Adults regularly face tight legroom and difficult access, making longer family trips uncomfortable.

🛣️
Firm Ride Feel

Firm suspension and big wheels transmit rough pavement into the cabin, tiring passengers on roads.

🔄
Jolting Low-Speed Shifts

Cold starts and low-speed shifts can jolt passengers, making stop-and-go traffic feel less polished.

🖥️
Dated Cabin Controls

The dated interface and awkward controls slow simple adjustments, distracting drivers during routine use.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Alternatives

The Mazda CX-90 delivers polished driving and strong, smooth power for families who want three-row practicality without the usual floaty feel, though its tighter third row and modest space behind it can frustrate households carrying adults or bulky gear regularly. Shoppers prioritizing maximum room may lean toward full-size three-row SUVs, while those wanting richer isolation may prefer luxury three-row SUVs.
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Publications

6 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS


78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as polished but held back by important compromises. Its upscale cabin, nimble handling, strong inline-six performance, and impressive fuel economy give it a near-luxury feel, while the 6.3-second 0–60-mph run and 29-mpg highway result stand out in the three-row class. The reviewer especially favors the Premium Sport trim for its equipment and value, rather than paying extra for the quicker S models. Still, enthusiasm is tempered by an edgy ride, heavy steering, rougher high-rpm engine note, and low-speed transmission shudders that undermine the vehicle’s premium aspirations. The third row is realistically for children, though the comfortable second row and useful cargo space help offset that limitation. Overall, the CX-90 is a capable, stylish, and efficient alternative to mainstream rivals, but its powertrain refinement and ride quality keep it from fully matching luxury competitors.

By Austin Parsons

67
Logo of MotorTrend

MotorTrend views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as appealing but not fully polished. Its handsome styling, premium-feeling cabin, leather upholstery, useful features, and $44,480 as-tested price create strong value, while the standard-output six-cylinder provides ample acceleration and nearly matches the more powerful engine in testing. However, the reviewer remains frustrated by abrupt low-speed transmission shifts and unusually heavy steering, problems the lower-powered engine fails to fix. The third row is cramped for adults, and Mazda’s rotary-controller-focused infotainment feels dated. Against roomier, less expensive Korean rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, the CX-90’s upmarket ambitions look increasingly difficult to justify. Overall, it could suit families drawn to its upscale design and driving character, but MotorTrend’s tone is guarded: the CX-90 is a strong-value, attractive option that still needs meaningful on-road refinement.

By Miguel Cortina

February 25, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as polished but held back by important compromises. Its upscale cabin, nimble handling, strong inline-six performance, and impressive fuel economy give it a near-luxury feel, while the 6.3-second 0–60-mph run and 29-mpg highway result stand out in the three-row class. The reviewer especially favors the Premium Sport trim for its equipment and value, rather than paying extra for the quicker S models. Still, enthusiasm is tempered by an edgy ride, heavy steering, rougher high-rpm engine note, and low-speed transmission shudders that undermine the vehicle’s premium aspirations. The third row is realistically for children, though the comfortable second row and useful cargo space help offset that limitation. Overall, the CX-90 is a capable, stylish, and efficient alternative to mainstream rivals, but its powertrain refinement and ride quality keep it from fully matching luxury competitors.

By Austin Parsons

67
Logo of MotorTrend

MotorTrend views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as appealing but not fully polished. Its handsome styling, premium-feeling cabin, leather upholstery, useful features, and $44,480 as-tested price create strong value, while the standard-output six-cylinder provides ample acceleration and nearly matches the more powerful engine in testing. However, the reviewer remains frustrated by abrupt low-speed transmission shifts and unusually heavy steering, problems the lower-powered engine fails to fix. The third row is cramped for adults, and Mazda’s rotary-controller-focused infotainment feels dated. Against roomier, less expensive Korean rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, the CX-90’s upmarket ambitions look increasingly difficult to justify. Overall, it could suit families drawn to its upscale design and driving character, but MotorTrend’s tone is guarded: the CX-90 is a strong-value, attractive option that still needs meaningful on-road refinement.

By Miguel Cortina

February 25, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as polished but held back by important compromises. Its upscale cabin, nimble handling, strong inline-six performance, and impressive fuel economy give it a near-luxury feel, while the 6.3-second 0–60-mph run and 29-mpg highway result stand out in the three-row class. The reviewer especially favors the Premium Sport trim for its equipment and value, rather than paying extra for the quicker S models. Still, enthusiasm is tempered by an edgy ride, heavy steering, rougher high-rpm engine note, and low-speed transmission shudders that undermine the vehicle’s premium aspirations. The third row is realistically for children, though the comfortable second row and useful cargo space help offset that limitation. Overall, the CX-90 is a capable, stylish, and efficient alternative to mainstream rivals, but its powertrain refinement and ride quality keep it from fully matching luxury competitors.

By Austin Parsons

67
Logo of MotorTrend

MotorTrend views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 as appealing but not fully polished. Its handsome styling, premium-feeling cabin, leather upholstery, useful features, and $44,480 as-tested price create strong value, while the standard-output six-cylinder provides ample acceleration and nearly matches the more powerful engine in testing. However, the reviewer remains frustrated by abrupt low-speed transmission shifts and unusually heavy steering, problems the lower-powered engine fails to fix. The third row is cramped for adults, and Mazda’s rotary-controller-focused infotainment feels dated. Against roomier, less expensive Korean rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, the CX-90’s upmarket ambitions look increasingly difficult to justify. Overall, it could suit families drawn to its upscale design and driving character, but MotorTrend’s tone is guarded: the CX-90 is a strong-value, attractive option that still needs meaningful on-road refinement.

By Miguel Cortina

February 25, 2026Visit Source →
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YouTube

17 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS


79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026
79
Youtube IconRedline Reviews

Redline Reviews is strongly impressed by the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport. Its smooth, powerful inline-six, improved transmission, sporty handling, premium cabin, and appealing pricing make it a standout, BMW-like alternative among mainstream three-row SUVs. A week of driving returned 24 mpg combined and 31 highway, while acceleration reached about six seconds to 60 mph. The tradeoffs are meaningful: firm ride, limited storage, cramped third-row and below-average cargo space, awkward shifter, dated infotainment, and some engine noise. Still, for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment over maximum practicality, it earns a strong recommendation.

January 19, 2026
48
Youtube IconThe Car Care Nut Reviews

The Car Care Nut is sharply skeptical of the CX-90, despite admiring its beautiful styling and appealing price. He praises the comfortable interior, 90-degree rear doors, useful spare tire, strong brakes, and quality construction, but considers the inline-six powertrain needlessly complex, laggy, and insufficiently refined for a premium SUV. The rear-mounted timing chains, difficult service access, hydraulic-clutch transmission, extensive underbody covers, and questionable long-term repair costs are major concerns. He sees the lower trims as compelling value around $40,000, while recommending an extended warranty and viewing higher trims as harder to justify.

April 13, 2026

Social

2 INFLUENCER REVIEWS


84
Instagram IconReal Mom Car Tours

Real Mom Car Tours is highly enthusiastic about the 2026 Mazda CX-90, calling it far more luxurious and appealing than many shoppers realize. She likes its upscale styling, 3.3-liter inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain, available plug-in hybrid, family-friendly storage, Nappa leather, sunshades, charging ports, and rear air vents. She also appreciates the seven- or eight-passenger flexibility and extensive safety technology. Her reservations are modest but useful, including the manual third-row folding mechanism, lack of car-seat tilt, and poorly placed lower air vents. Overall, she strongly recommends adding it to a three-row SUV shortlist.

November 14, 2025
77
TikTok IconCarBuzz

CarBuzz views the 2026 Mazda CX-90 favorably, though its family practicality has clear compromises. The reviewer likes the powerful 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six, wide-opening doors, attractive leather, extensive physical controls, and especially the Bose audio system, calling it the best Bose setup they’ve heard in a car. However, storage is limited, the rotary controller is less appealing than a touchscreen, and the third row is difficult to access with cramped head- and legroom. Overall, it feels polished and capable, but not ideal for larger families.

July 10, 2026
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Forum Reviews

CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM


72
Logo of Reddit

Redditors are cautiously positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-90, especially compared with earlier models. Owners upgrading from 2024 vehicles describe a dramatically smoother, quieter, more polished SUV, with improved steering, transmission behavior, engine transitions, controls, and low-speed refinement. Its strong handling, upscale cabin, physical controls, attractive design, and capable inline-six remain major draws. Skeptics counter that most improvements are software-based, with limited mechanical change, and question whether reliability concerns are truly resolved. Overall, the 2026 is viewed as the CX-90 it should have been initially, though buyers remain sensible about long-term durability and value.

Many comments

Scales Icon

In-Depth Review

Highlights Icon

Highlights

  • Strong inline-six power
    Reviewers note smooth, effortless passing power.
  • Engaging road manners
    Designed to deliver controlled, responsive handling.
  • Flexible efficiency choices
    Advertised to support mild-hybrid or electric driving.
  • Upscale cabin feel
    Marketed as premium; reviewers note refined materials.
Considerations Icon

Considerations

  • Cramped third row
    Adult passengers face limited legroom and access.
  • Low-speed drivetrain behavior
    Shifts and stop-start transitions can feel abrupt.
  • Firm ride quality
    Large wheels transmit bumps and road chatter.
  • Limited cargo capacity
    Cargo room trails several space-focused competitors.

Mazda’s 2026 CX-90 brings the brand’s driver-focused reputation into the premium three-row SUV market. Designed for families who want road-trip comfort without settling for a dull appliance, it pairs standard all-wheel drive with smooth inline-six power and an available plug-in hybrid. Compared with space-first rivals such as the Palisade and Telluride, the CX-90 feels more athletic and upscale, though its tighter third row and smaller cargo area matter. The sections ahead examine its Turbo S acceleration, confident handling, fuel economy and 26-mile electric range, along with cabin quality, seating practicality, and towing capability. Those priorities make it especially appealing to driving enthusiasts, growing families, and commuters who can charge at home—but less so to buyers who regularly fill every seat. Review each trade-off closely; the CX-90 may be the family SUV for people who still enjoy the drive.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Ride and Handling

This is one of the CX-90’s defining advantages, provided you value control over softness. Its rear-biased i-ACTIV AWD, direct steering, strong brakes, and restrained body roll make it unusually engaging for a three-row SUV. Highway composure is excellent, and the turning circle helps it feel manageable in town. The tradeoff is a firm, sometimes edgy ride, especially with 21-inch wheels, while heavy steering and chatter over broken pavement can reduce family comfort. Expert feedback supports Mazda’s sporty claim, but not a fully luxury-smooth experience.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Towing Capability

The CX-90 is capable enough for recreational towing, but configuration matters. Select inline-six models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which covers many small boats, campers, and utility trailers while preserving useful road-trip flexibility. The standard AWD system and strong torque also support confident towing in changing weather. The PHEV is more limited at roughly 3,500 pounds, so buyers should not assume every CX-90 has the same utility. For frequent heavy towing, verify the trim rating and equipment rather than relying on the model name alone.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Acceleration and Power

The CX-90 delivers confident acceleration without feeling like a typical family hauler. The standard 3.3-liter turbo inline-six makes 280 hp, while Turbo S versions reach 340 hp on premium fuel, helping produce roughly 6.6-second 0–60 runs. Reviewers generally praise the smooth passing power and rear-biased AWD character, though low-speed shifts, stop-start transitions, and occasional transmission shudders still interrupt polish. The PHEV’s 323-hp system is strong on paper, but testers usually find the turbo-six more refined.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Third-Row and Cargo

The CX-90 works as a three-row SUV, but it does not maximize family space. Its seven- or eight-passenger layouts provide useful flexibility, and the wide-opening rear doors and accessible cargo area are practical strengths. Behind the third row, roughly 14.9 cubic feet is available, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with seats folded. The recurring limitation is a cramped third row, particularly for adults, plus less cargo room than Palisade, Telluride, and other space-first rivals. It suits occasional third-row use better than constant full occupancy.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Cabin Materials and Quality

The interior gives the CX-90 much of its premium appeal. Available Nappa leather, supportive seats, restrained design, physical controls, and a quiet highway cabin make it feel more expensive than Mazda’s mainstream badge suggests. Reviewers also praise construction, camera quality, and the available Bose audio system. Still, dated infotainment and awkward rotary-controller dependence weaken the experience, while isolated complaints target cheap-feeling plastics, hard-to-read controls, or questionable decorative trim. The cabin feels upscale overall, but not consistently equivalent to established luxury competitors.

Mazda CX-90 (2026)

Fuel Economy and Range

The CX-90 offers useful efficiency choices rather than one universally ideal solution. Gas models are rated around 23/28 mpg city/highway, with reviewers sometimes recording 24 mpg combined or over 30 mpg on highways. The PHEV’s 17.8-kWh battery provides up to 26 miles of EV driving, enough for short errands if charging is convenient. However, real-world PHEV results can fall to about 23.5 mpg when depleted, and its hybrid transitions are less polished than the inline-six’s, so regular charging matters.

Conclusion

The CX-90 makes a clear trade: it delivers strong inline-six power and engaging, controlled handling instead of maximizing family-room comfort. Owners and experts appreciate its upscale materials, quiet highway demeanor, and broad efficiency choice, including a PHEV with useful short-trip electric range, though real-world refinement varies. The firm ride, occasional low-speed drivetrain awkwardness, and dated controls keep it short of true luxury polish. Its cramped third row and limited cargo space suit occasional passengers better than a full-time eight-person household, while inline-six models offer up to 5,000-pound towing capability; the PHEV is less capable. That makes the CX-90 a smart fit for drivers who want premium character, standard AWD, and practical towing without luxury-brand pricing—not for shoppers who put maximum space or serene ride quality first. Its balanced strengths and compromises justify a positive but measured recommendation.

Feature Scores Icon

Feature Scores

This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.

Performance

Powertrain Efficiency

4/5

Acceleration and Throttle Response

4/5

Reliability and Durability

3/5

Combined Driving Range

4/5

Charging Convenience

3/5

Value

Purchase Price Competitiveness

4/5

Ownership Cost

3/5

Resale Value

3/5

Feature to Price Ratio

4/5

Design

Interior Space and Packaging

3/5

Exterior Styling Appeal

4/5

Ergonomics and Controls

4/5

Cargo Flexibility

3/5

Ride and Handling Balance

4/5

Health

Cabin Air Quality

TBD

Material Toxicity

TBD

Noise and Vibration

3/5

Safety

Crash Protection

TBD

Active Driver Assistance

4/5

Battery Safety

TBD

Child Safety and Seating Anchors

TBD

Sustainability

Tailpipe Emissions Reduction

4/5

Lifecycle Battery Impact

TBD

Recyclability and End of Life

TBD

Fuel Source Flexibility

4/5

Experience Style

Tech and Connectivity Richness

3/5

Ease of Use and Simplicity

4/5

Comfort and Luxury Appointments

4/5

Specifications Icon

Specifications

This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.

Performance

Design

Safety

Sustainability

Experience Style

Question Mark Icon

Frequently Asked Questions


4 Questions


$39,300