In 2026, Mazda is stepping boldly into new territory with the CX-90 — a three-row flagship SUV that aims squarely at the premium market. With refined styling, upscale materials, multiple powertrain options (including a strong plug-in hybrid variant), and more space than ever before, the CX-90 signals Mazda’s ambition to be more than just a value-premium brand. In this in-depth review we’ll dissect what makes the CX-90 stand out, where it still needs to prove itself, and why it merits serious consideration for luxury-minded families.
Architecture & Powertrain: From Refined ICE to Electrified Leadership
Platform & Options
The Mazda CX-90 is built on Mazda’s new “Large Product Group” architecture, designed for rear-biased all-wheel drive, long wheelbase and three-row layouts. Wikipedia+2Car and Driver+2 Buyers get a choice of three powertrain families:
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A 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six (280 hp in non-S trims) with mild-hybrid assist. Car and Driver+1
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A “S” version of the same engine tuned to ~340 hp/369 lb-ft for more driving engagement. Car and Driver+1
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A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant pairing a 2.5-litre petrol unit with an electric motor and 17.8 kWh battery, delivering ~323 hp/369 lb-ft combined, and up to ~25–26 miles of EV-only range. Car and Driver+1
Performance Snapshot
In testing, the PHEV version has impressed for its launch-line quickness and everyday usability. Car & Driver highlight that: “the CX-90 PHEV powertrain … proved quicker in C/D testing than the gas version.” Car and Driver Mazda lists the towing capacity at around 3,500 lb for properly equipped units, making the CX-90 genuinely practical for families and active buyers. continental-mazda.com+1
Efficiency & Real-World Implications
For buyers seeking lower fuel cost, the PHEV’s ~56 MPGe rating and ~25 MPG in hybrid mode offer meaningful savings in city driving. continental-mazda.com However, some reviewers note that in traditional ICE modes the efficiency isn’t radically better than many rivals — so the PHEV is likely the smarter choice for buyers prioritising economy. The Wall Street Journal
Design & Interior: Premium Looks, Practical Usability
Exterior Presence
The CX-90 projects upscale competence. Its long hood, short overhangs, strong Kodo design cues and premium detailing (available 21-inch wheels, gloss-black trims) all emphasise Mazda’s up-market intention. continental-mazda.com+1 The three-row layout doesn’t compromise style — the CX-90 remains more elegant than bulky.
Cabin & Materials
Inside, Mazda has delivered a noticeable leap. The cabin features high-grade leather (including Nappa in upper trims), open-pore woods, an 8-inch centre screen (with higher trims offering larger displays), and available second-row captain’s chairs. continental-mazda.com Second- and third-row occupants benefit from flat-floor architecture (in the PHEV and higher trims) and thoughtful family-oriented design such as multiple USB-C ports, three-zone climate control and premium seating comfort. MySA
Practicality for Families
With up to eight seats (seven in more upscale captain-chair configurations), the CX-90 is convincingly family-friendly. Cargo space behind the third row is somewhat constrained for large gear loads, but folding the second and third rows considerably expands practicality. In towing mode the 3,500 lb capacity holds up well for weekend gear or small trailers. MySA
Market Position & Competitive Strategy
Why This Matters for Mazda
With the CX-90, Mazda is trying to elevate its brand perception — shifting from sporty mid-premium to serious contender in the large luxury SUV space. The addition of premium powertrains, upscale finishes and the PHEV option helps widen appeal to buyers previously shopping Audi, BMW, or Lexus.
Competitive Set
The CX-90 goes head-to-head with three-row premium SUVs like the Audi Q7, BMW X7 (entry trims), and the Lexus RX L. Where Mazda has an edge: value pricing, engaging driving dynamics, and newer electrified tech. Where it may lag: brand prestige, decibel-quiet refinement and full EV (battery-only) options.
Buyer Considerations
In markets like the US, Europe, and Asia, where three-row SUVs are popular and emissions regulations stricter, the PHEV version ticks many boxes. Buyers should examine local charging infrastructure (for full advantage of PHEV), resale value assurances, and compare total cost of ownership. For ICE buyers, the inline-six offers genuine performance but at higher cost and fuel penalties than some rivals may offer in hybrid form.
Strengths, Weaknesses & What to Watch
Key Strengths
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Premium construction and upscale cabin environment — Mazda has significantly improved.
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Strong PHEV performance and electrified credentials in a three-row layout.
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Value proposition: lower entry pricing relative to some luxury rivals while offering many premium features.
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Versatile configuration options (6/7/8 seats, captain chairs, etc.).
Noted Weaknesses
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EV-only range in the PHEV is limited (~25 miles) — more of a city commuter benefit than full EV road-trip solution. Car and Driver+1
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Cargo space behind third row is modest compared to some full-size SUVs.
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Premium refinement (noise, ride isolation) may still trail top luxury brands. A review in WSJ calls the hybrid version “slightly under-baked” in response. The Wall Street Journal
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Availability and local dealer/service support for new Mazda premium models may vary by market.
What to Watch
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How Mazda introduces a fully electric (battery-only) version of the CX-90 or a future CX-90 EV in global markets.
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Real-world range, fuel economy and driving refinement for the PHEV when loaded with passengers/luggage.
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Resale value trajectory: how the premium Mazda SUV holds value vs. established luxury brands.
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Dealer network maturity, software update reliability and customer service for newer high-tech powertrains.
Final Verdict: A Strong Step Into the Premium Realm
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 deserves serious attention: it represents a clear strategic step for Mazda, delivering three-row SUV practicality with premium features and multiple electrified powertrains. For buyers who want near-luxury level comfort, refined design, family usability and solid performance without the brand-premium markup, the CX-90 is an outstanding choice.
That said, if full battery-electric zero-emission driving is your top priority, you may find the CX-90’s comparatively modest EV-only range limiting. If ultra-quiet luxury refinement or brand prestige are your top filters, some German or Japanese luxury brands may still edge ahead. But for balanced buyers who value driving dynamics, value and premium feel, the CX-90 ticks very many boxes indeed.
In short: Mazda’s CX-90 is not just “Mazda’s big SUV”—it”’s Mazda’s big statement that they can play at the premium level. And by many measures, they’ve delivered.
