Three-row SUVs tend to follow a predictable formula: maximize room, soften everything, add cupholders, repeat. The 2026 Mazda CX-90 paves its own way.
It still seats up to 8 passengers and offers substantial cargo capacity, but Mazda has also given it standard AWD, an available 340 hp Inline-6, a plug-in hybrid option, and chassis technology aimed at making the drive itself worth thinking about.
For families around Vancouver, Washington, the CX-90 is worth checking out.
Big Enough for 8, Without Feeling Like a Box
Mazda's KODO: "Soul of Motion" design philosophy gives the CX-90 proportions that look more composed than bulky. Available Piano Black accents and dark chrome badging can push the exterior in a sportier direction. Inside, configuration is important.
The CX-90 can seat up to 8 passengers, with a second-row bench or available captain's chairs depending on trim. Cargo capacity begins at 14.9 cu. ft. behind the third row and expands to as much as 74.2 cu. ft. with the second and third rows folded. With the available 2-person second-row captain's chairs, maximum cargo capacity reaches 75.2 cu. ft.
Available Nappa leather-trimmed seating, a panoramic moonroof, Bose® audio, and a hands-free rear power liftgate add comfort without changing the fundamental usefulness of the cabin.
An Inline-6 Still Has Something to Say
The standard powertrain is an e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 paired with an e-SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-speed automatic transmission. Standard 3.3 Turbo versions produce up to 280 hp and 332 lbs. ft. of torque. Turbo S models raise output to 340 hp and 369 lbs. ft. of torque when using recommended premium fuel.
EPA-estimated fuel economy for 3.3 Turbo and Turbo S models is 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. Mazda also offers the CX-90 PHEV. Its e-SKYACTIV®-PHEV system combines a 2.5L engine with a 68-kW electric motor for 323 hp of total system output. Every CX-90 gets i-ACTIV AWD® as standard.
The Chassis Gets Attention, Too
Power figures only tell you how quickly an SUV can move. Mazda has also spent time considering what happens once the road bends. Kinematic Posture Control helps reduce body roll during cornering, while Mi-Drive provides different operating modes depending on powertrain and trim. Select inline-6 models offer Sport and Off-Road modes, with Towing mode added on applicable higher trims.
PHEV versions add EV mode, with Towing mode available on select configurations. Properly equipped inline-6 models can tow between 3,500 and 5,000 lbs., depending on trim and configuration. That's useful capability, but the more interesting part is the combination: a three-row SUV with AWD, towing ability, and chassis systems designed to preserve some connection between driver and road.
Six Inline-6 Trims, Plus Three PHEVs
The gasoline CX-90 range begins with 3.3 Turbo Select, which includes leatherette-trimmed seating and standard i-ACTIV AWD®. 3.3 Turbo Preferred adds leather-trimmed heated front and second-row seats, 21-inch alloy wheels, and a power sliding-glass moonroof.
Premium Sport raises maximum towing capacity to 5,000 lbs. and adds Mi-Drive Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes.
Premium Plus brings Nappa leather-trimmed seating and a 360° View Monitor with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View.
The Turbo S models introduce the 340 hp version of the 3.3L Inline-6. Turbo S Premium Sport adds the Mazda Driver Personalization System, while Turbo S Premium Plus brings equipment including ventilated front and second-row seats and available second-row captain's chairs.
PHEV shoppers have 3 separate choices: Preferred, Premium Sport, and Premium Plus.
Safety Goes Beyond a Long Equipment List
The 2026 CX-90 earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Its i-ACTIVSENSE® technologies include features such as Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist, and Driver Monitoring, with equipment varying by trim.
Available systems include Cruising and Traffic Support with lane centering, Head-On Traffic Avoidance Assist, and a 360° View Monitor. Vehicle Exit Warning is standard and can alert occupants to vehicles or bicycles approaching from behind before they open a door.
Connectivity Changes with the Powertrain
Mazda Connect™ provides Bluetooth® connectivity along with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. A 3-month SiriusXM® trial subscription and 1 year of Mazda Connected Services are also included. On Inline-6 models, Mazda Connected Services can provide Remote Engine Start through the MyMazda app.
PHEV models use connected functionality for features including remote charging and climate control instead. Select models also provide USB-C charging outlets in the second and third rows, because an SUV full of passengers inevitably becomes an SUV full of dying phones.
Choose the CX-90 Around the Job
Alan Webb Mazda in Vancouver can help you compare the current CX-90 inventory, including the 280 hp 3.3 Turbo, 340 hp Turbo S, and 323 hp PHEV configurations.
Compare the seating layouts and equipment that fit your family, then schedule your 2026 Mazda CX-90 test drive online. A three-row SUV must be practical, but it doesn't have to stop there.
