Mazda has released full details for the 2026 Mazda CX-90, its largest crossover and a critical player in the three-row SUV segment. The updated lineup brings new pricing, packaging, and technology changes, designed to improve customer value and keep pace with rivals from Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda.
Key Updates for 2026
Mazda applied targeted upgrades across all trims:
- Alexa voice integration standard across the lineup.
- New Polymetal Gray Metallic paint option ($595).
- Expanded Premium Sport trims with blackout styling.
- Towing capacity increased to 5,000 lbs. on select models.
- More standard tech, including larger infotainment displays and ventilated seats in mid-trims.
CX-90 Powertrain Options
Mazda keeps two core powertrains for 2026, split between mild-hybrid turbocharged six-cylinder and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
3.3L Turbo Inline-Six
- 280 hp / 332 lb-ft on regular fuel.
- EPA rating: 23 city / 28 highway / 25 combined mpg.
- Mild-hybrid system improves throttle response.
- Towing: up to 5,000 lbs with accessories.
3.3L Turbo S Inline-Six
- 340 hp / 369 lb-ft on premium fuel (319 hp on regular).
- Same 25 mpg combined rating as standard turbo.
- Positioned as the performance option.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
- 2.5L four-cylinder + electric motor.
- 323 hp / 369 lb-ft with premium fuel.
- 17.8 kWh battery provides 26 miles of EV range.
- Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Mazda’s 2026 CX-90 lineup includes nine trims. Pricing (before $1,530 destination fee) starts under $40,000 and stretches beyond $57,000.
| Trim | Powertrain | Seating | Starting MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.3 Turbo Select | 280 hp I6 | 8-passenger | $38,800 |
| 3.3 Turbo Preferred | 280 hp I6 | 8-passenger | $42,950 |
| 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport | 280 hp I6 | 7 or 8-passenger | $46,980 |
| 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus | 280 hp I6 | 7 or 8-passenger | $50,270 |
| PHEV Preferred | 323 hp hybrid | 7-passenger | $50,495 |
| PHEV Premium Sport | 323 hp hybrid | 7-passenger | $55,300 |
| PHEV Premium Plus | 323 hp hybrid | 7-passenger | $58,500 |
| 3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport | 340 hp I6 | 7 or 8-passenger | $53,940 |
| 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus | 340 hp I6 | 7-passenger | $57,370 |
Premium paint colors cost an additional $595 (Artisan Red, Rhodium White, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Gray Metallic, Polymetal Gray Metallic).
Trim Analysis
3.3 Turbo Select
Entry-level but well-equipped.
- 10.25-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Black leatherette seats, 19-inch wheels, and standard AWD.
- Full suite of i-Activsense safety features.
- EPA: 25 mpg combined.
3.3 Turbo Preferred
Adds higher-value features for family buyers.
- Larger 12.3-inch infotainment display with touchscreen.
- Ventilated front seats, heated second row.
- Wireless phone charging.
- New 21-inch wheels standard.
3.3 Turbo Premium Sport
Introduces blackout styling.
- Sport, Off-Road, and Towing drive modes.
- Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Bose 12-speaker system, panoramic moonroof.
- Adds OTA navigation updates.
3.3 Turbo Premium Plus
Moves toward luxury territory.
- Nappa leather seats (black or white).
- Adaptive Front-lighting System.
- 360° View Monitor and advanced braking assists.
PHEV Preferred
Balances electrification and value.
- 26-mile EV range.
- 12.3-inch display with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Heated first and second row seats.
PHEV Premium Sport
Adds performance styling cues.
- Blackout design with gloss black grille.
- Bose audio, head-up display, navigation upgrades.
- 1,500-watt charging outlet in cargo.
PHEV Premium Plus
Top PHEV choice.
- Driver Personalization System adjusts seat, steering wheel, and mirrors.
- Signature headlights/taillights.
- Expanded safety suite, including fatigue detection.
3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport
New for 2026.
- 340 hp engine standard.
- Blackout styling and premium interior.
- Six USB-C ports, panoramic moonroof, Bose system.
3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus
Flagship model.
- Standard captain’s chairs, Nappa leather.
- Ventilated second row seats.
- Two-tone steering wheel.
- Price tops at $57,370 before fees.
Market Positioning
Mazda positions the CX-90 against three-row leaders like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Honda Pilot. Pricing undercuts luxury crossovers but offers features that creep into premium territory.
Key advantages:
- Inline-six engine rare in this class.
- Plug-in hybrid with usable EV range.
- Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs.
- Standard AWD across the board.
Areas to watch:
- Limited EV range (26 miles) may trail upcoming competitors with larger batteries.
- Pricing overlaps with premium brands, which may challenge resale values.
Sales Outlook
Mazda expects CX-90 to drive growth in the U.S. and Canada. The strategy combines volume trims like Turbo Preferred with margin-rich Premium Plus models.
- Starting price under $39,000 keeps CX-90 competitive.
- PHEV trims push Mazda into electrified family vehicles without abandoning traditional engines.
- Blackout-styled Premium Sport trims target younger families and buyers who prioritize design.
Conclusion
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 expands its reach with sharper trims, stronger towing, and electrified options. Mazda positions the SUV as a family hauler with premium features, priced to compete with mainstream rivals but spec’d to tempt buyers from above.
The strategy is clear: more technology, more powertrain choice, and stronger visual differentiation at each step. For buyers, the CX-90 delivers options from under $40,000 to nearly $60,000, with hybrid and high-output six-cylinder choices that broaden its market appeal.
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