Mazda CX-90 Review 2026: A Practical Three-Row SUV for Daily Life

2026 Mazda CX-90 is a three-row midsize SUV designed for families and daily commuters who want comfort, space, and modern technology without moving into the luxury price range. It offers a clean design, efficient engines, and a balanced driving feel that focuses on everyday usability. With seating for up to eight passengers and available hybrid options, the Mazda CX-90 2026 aims to compete strongly in the midsize SUV segment in the USA.

The Mazda CX-90 2026 continues Mazda’s push into larger, more refined SUVs for American buyers. It replaces older models by offering more space, better efficiency, and improved safety features. This SUV is built mainly for families, long highway drives, and daily city use. Mazda keeps the approach practical, focusing on comfort and reliability rather than flashy performance.

For buyers looking at a three-row gasoline or hybrid SUV, the CX-90 stands as a sensible option. It does not try to be a full luxury SUV, but it feels more premium than many mainstream rivals. This balance makes it appealing to families who want value without sacrificing quality.

Mazda CX-90 Exterior Design & Styling

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 exterior design looks clean and mature. It follows Mazda’s simple styling approach with smooth lines and a wide stance. The front grille is large but not aggressive, and the slim headlights give it a modern appearance. Overall, the design feels calm and upscale.

From the side, the CX-90 three-row SUV looks long and well-proportioned. The roofline stays fairly straight, which helps with interior space. Wheel designs vary by trim, but even base models look well-finished. Chrome and black accents are used carefully, not excessively.

At the rear, the taillights are slim and horizontally aligned. This makes the SUV look wider and more planted on the road. The design may not stand out dramatically, but it ages well and suits family buyers who prefer a timeless look.

Mazda CX-90 Interior & Cabin Space

Inside, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 interior focuses on simplicity and comfort. The dashboard layout is clean, with physical buttons still available for common functions. Materials feel solid, especially in higher trims where soft-touch surfaces are more common. The cabin design feels calm and driver-focused.

The CX-90 offers seating for six, seven, or eight passengers, depending on configuration. The first and second rows are comfortable for adults, even on long drives. Legroom and headroom are good, making it suitable for taller passengers. The third row is best for children or short trips.

Cargo space is practical for daily family use. With all seats up, storage is limited but usable for groceries. Folding the third row creates enough space for strollers or luggage. With the second row folded, the CX-90 becomes suitable for moving larger items.

Mazda CX-90 Engine & Performance

The Mazda CX-90 2026 engine options are designed for efficiency and smooth driving. Buyers can choose between a turbocharged gasoline engine and a plug-in hybrid option. Both engines are tuned for daily driving rather than sporty performance. Power delivery feels smooth and predictable.

The gasoline engine offers enough power for highway merging and city driving. It does not feel fast, but it is confident and stable. Acceleration is adequate for a family SUV, especially when driving with a full load of passengers.

The CX-90 plug-in hybrid focuses on fuel savings and quieter operation. It allows short-distance electric driving, which is useful for city commutes. Overall, performance is calm and controlled, matching the SUV’s family-oriented nature.

Mazda CX-90 Fuel Economy & Mileage

Fuel efficiency is an important strength of the 2026 Mazda CX-90. The gasoline version delivers competitive mileage for a midsize three-row SUV. It performs well on highways, making it suitable for long-distance travel. City mileage is reasonable for its size.

The CX-90 hybrid mileage is better suited for buyers who want lower fuel costs. Short daily trips can often be completed using electric power alone. This reduces fuel use and emissions, especially in urban driving conditions.

Overall, the CX-90 offers good balance between performance and efficiency. It may not lead the segment in mileage, but it stays competitive. For families concerned about fuel costs, the hybrid version makes sense.

Mazda CX-90 Technology & Features

The Mazda CX-90 2026 features focus on usability rather than overwhelming screens. The infotainment system includes a large display, controlled mainly by a rotary dial. This setup reduces distractions while driving. Smartphone connectivity is standard on most trims.

Higher trims add premium features like a larger screen, upgraded audio, and additional USB ports. Climate controls remain easy to use with physical buttons. This is helpful for drivers who prefer simple controls over touch-heavy systems.

Other useful features include keyless entry, push-button start, and available wireless charging. The technology feels modern but not complicated. For family buyers, this straightforward approach is a positive.

Mazda CX-90 Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is a key focus for the 2026 Mazda CX-90 safety features. Standard driver assistance systems include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help reduce stress during daily commuting. They work quietly in the background.

Adaptive cruise control is available and performs well on highways. It maintains a safe distance from other vehicles and handles stop-and-go traffic smoothly. Rear cross-traffic alert is useful in parking lots and tight spaces.

The CX-90 is built with a strong body structure and modern safety systems. While no vehicle can prevent all accidents, the CX-90 provides good support for family safety. This makes it a reliable choice for parents and daily drivers.

Mazda CX-90 Driving Experience & Ride Quality

The Mazda CX-90 driving experience feels stable and comfortable. Steering is light, making it easy to handle in city traffic. The suspension absorbs road bumps well, keeping passengers comfortable on rough roads. It feels controlled without being stiff.

On highways, the CX-90 remains quiet and smooth. Wind and road noise are well-managed for its class. Long drives feel relaxed, which is important for family road trips. The SUV feels confident at higher speeds.

This SUV is not designed for sporty driving. Instead, it focuses on balance and comfort. For daily commuting and family use, this driving style works well.

Mazda CX-90 Pricing & Trim Levels

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 price is positioned in the middle of the midsize SUV segment. Base trims are competitively priced, offering good value for the features included. Higher trims add comfort and technology but also increase the cost. Pricing remains reasonable compared to luxury SUVs.

Trim levels range from basic to more premium options. Entry trims focus on practicality and safety. Mid-level trims add convenience features that many families appreciate. Top trims offer a more refined interior and advanced technology.

The plug-in hybrid version costs more upfront. However, it may save money on fuel over time. Buyers should consider their driving habits when choosing between trims.

Mazda CX-90 Competition & Rivals

The Mazda CX-90 2026 rivals include popular three-row SUVs like the Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Kia Telluride. These competitors offer similar space and features. Each has its own strengths in reliability, technology, or brand reputation.

Compared to rivals, the CX-90 feels slightly more refined in interior design. It may not offer the largest third row or the strongest engine. However, it balances comfort, efficiency, and quality well.

Buyers should compare test drives and pricing. The CX-90 stands out for those who value a calm driving feel and clean design. It competes best with buyers who want a practical but slightly premium family SUV.

Mazda CX-90 Who Should Buy This

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is ideal for families who need three rows of seating. It works well for school runs, grocery trips, and long highway drives. Daily commuters will appreciate its comfort and safety features. The hybrid option suits eco-conscious buyers.

This SUV is also good for buyers upgrading from smaller crossovers. It offers more space without feeling too large or difficult to drive. Owners who value interior quality and smooth driving will feel satisfied.

However, buyers needing a very large third row or maximum towing may want to look elsewhere. The CX-90 focuses more on balance than extremes.

Mazda CX-90 Final Verdict

The Mazda CX-90 2026 is a well-rounded midsize three-row SUV designed for everyday family life. It offers comfortable seating, good fuel efficiency, and modern safety features. The design is clean, and the driving experience is calm and predictable. It does not try to impress with flashy performance.

Strengths include interior quality, smooth ride, and available hybrid efficiency. Weaknesses include a third row that is better for kids and a higher price on top trims. Still, it delivers strong overall value.

For families and commuters looking for a reliable gasoline or hybrid SUV, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 is a sensible and practical choice in the competitive midsize SUV segment.