We enjoyed the merits of the Mazda CX-9, sampling the three-row midsize SUV on multiple occasions during its near two-decade old history.
So, when the CX-9 was discontinued after the 2023 model, we were a bit confused. The SUV had record sales of 34,580 in 2023 and gave Mazda a reliable SUV hauler, capable of transporting seven passengers.
That was three years ago and during that time our consternation quickly faded once we drove the replacement for the CX-9. After two solid sales years, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 arrives with no major changes. It remains a versatile midsize SUV that is available as a gas-powered model (with a mild-hybrid system) and as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
The CX-90 is larger, faster, more comfortable and luxurious than the CX-9 and has a much larger third row of seating, transporting up to eight people. It debuted in 2024 with sales of 54,676 and a year ago had a moderate increase of 55,156.
Thanks to its strong driver engagement, solid power and interior makeup, it’s been suggested the CX-90 has some luxury qualities. Yet the base model comes at a very reasonable price – starting at $38,900. When fully loaded, the PHEV model sticker price can climb as high as $58,600. It has an electric range of 26-27 miles.
The PHEV combines a single electric motor with a turbocharged 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine to generate 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It’s faster than the standard CX-90 (turbo 3.3-liter, V6, 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque), going 0-60 mph in roughly 6.4 seconds. The V-6 gets 23-28 mpg and the plug-in hybrid 26-27 mpg.
The ease of driving any version of the CX-90 is another plus. It’s quick and handles well, providing more overall stability than the CX-9. All CX-90s come standard with the following safety features: smart brake support; blind spot monitoring; lane keep assist; driver monitoring system; vehicle exit warning; radar cruise control; emergency lane keeping; traffic sign recognition; and automatic high beams.
Mazda did a nice job designing the CX-90 cabin, giving it both style and functionality. It has a standard 7-inch digital instrument cluster display and a user-friendly 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. However, not everyone will like that the touchscreen needs to be controlled with a rotary knob on the center console. There are several physical buttons that control major functions, including the climate control system.
AT A GLANCE – 2026 MAZDA CX-90
- Performance: turbocharged 3.3-liter, V6, 340 horsepower; electric motor, turbo 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 323 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 23-28 mpg; 26-27 mpg
- Price estimate: $38,900 to $58,600
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; Drivetrain: 5 years/60,000 miles; Roadside Assistance: 3 years/36,000; Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited; battery
Mazda did a nice job designing the CX-90 cabin, giving it both style and functionality.
Standard interior features include eight-way driver and passenger seating; automatic tri-zone climate control; eight-speaker audio system; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration; HD radio; Bluetooth; four USB ports; and voice recognition.
The front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of head and leg room even for taller folks. The second row is either a bench or more stylish captain’s chairs. Even though the CX-90’s third row is more spacious than the CX-9, it’s not a place where adults will want to reside for too long.
The cargo area behind the third row measures either 14.9 cubic feet (three-seat third row) or 15.9 cubes (two-seat third row). It expands to approximately 40.1 cubic feet with the third row down and the space grows to around 75.2 cubes with the two rows folded to the floor.
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 has quickly been embraced. It has many fine qualities and is being hailed as one of the best midsize SUVs amongst some stiff competition.
Weidel on Wheels is featured regularly on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.bsky.social
