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What’s New for 2026?
The 2026 Mazda CX90 arrives with a refreshed look and a handful of new trims that keep the lineup competitive. The base model remains the same as the 2024 launch, but the 2026 version adds a new poly‑metal gray paint option and a premium sports trim that now comes standard on the more powerful inline‑six engine. The price gap between the base and the preferred trim has widened to over $4,100, making the base a sensible choice for buyers who want the essentials without the extra cost.
Exterior Styling and Practicality
Visually, the CX90 keeps Mazda’s signature “Kodo” design language, but the new paint and trim options give it a more upscale feel. The premium sports trim adds black accents around the exterior, giving the SUV a subtle, sporty edge. Inside, the cabin is spacious enough for seven passengers, with the third row accessible via a simple strap‑release mechanism. While the third‑row seats are a bit tighter than some competitors, they are still functional for children or short trips.
Storage solutions are generous: door pockets hold cups and small items, and the center console, though shallow, opens independently on each side, allowing easy access to sunglasses or a phone. The rear seats can be folded flat to create a 15.9‑cubic‑foot cargo area when the third row is in use, and 14.9 cubic feet when the third row is folded down.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior feels restrained yet premium. Leather‑trimmed seats offer firm support and lateral stability, especially in the front. The second‑row seats slide and recline, and the cabin features a 10.25‑inch infotainment screen on the base trim, with a larger 12.3‑inch wireless option available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired on the smaller screen and wireless on the larger one.
Control of the infotainment system is handled by a large knob located just ahead of the center console. While the knob is functional, it can feel a bit out of reach for some users. The vehicle also includes a 12‑speed automatic transmission on the base trim and an 8‑speed on the higher trims, both paired with all‑wheel drive as standard.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
The CX90’s base engine is a 3.3‑liter inline‑six turbocharged unit that also serves as a mild hybrid. It delivers smooth, effortless power and is paired with an 8‑speed automatic transmission. A more powerful version of the same engine is available, but it requires premium fuel to achieve its full output. The plug‑in hybrid variant, while available, was noted to lack refinement compared to the gasoline models.
On the road, the CX90 feels stable and locked‑in. The steering is precise, with a slightly slower ratio that gives a sophisticated feel. The vehicle’s handling encourages a confident driving style, and the inline‑six engine’s smoothness is evident even at low speeds. Some minor transmission quirks were noted at low speed, such as brief engine shut‑off moments, but these did not significantly affect the overall driving experience.
Safety, Features, and Value
Safety is a strong point for the CX90. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded it five stars, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also rated it highly, citing its eight standard airbags and a suite of active driver‑assist technologies. The vehicle also includes a seat‑belt reminder that beeps when the car starts, adding a layer of driver awareness.
When it comes to value, the base trim offers a solid set of features: power driver seat, leather‑trimmed surfaces, zone climate control, and key‑less access. The preferred trim adds many extras, but the price jump makes the base a more attractive option for most buyers. Compared to rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Hyundai Palisade, the CX90 offers a competitive mix of performance, interior quality, and safety, especially for those who appreciate Mazda’s driving dynamics.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Mazda CX90 positions itself as a near‑premium SUV that delivers a refined driving experience without the premium price tag. Its smooth inline‑six engine, stable handling, and well‑thought‑out interior make it a compelling choice for families needing three rows of seating. While the higher trims add desirable touches, the base model remains the best value for those who want a capable, safe, and stylish midsize SUV.