The CX-90 Select introduces the foundation with a clean exterior profile, LED lighting signatures, and a wide, confident stance that already feels more premium than typical entry trims in the segment. Preferred refines that presence with more polished exterior accents and subtle visual enhancements that sharpen its overall sophistication. Premium Sport moves into a darker, more assertive aesthetic, introducing gloss-black exterior elements and sport-leaning wheel designs that tighten its visual identity. Premium Plus continues that refinement with a more upscale exterior finish, balancing brightwork and body-color integration for a more executive appearance. At the upper end, Turbo S Premium and Turbo S Premium Plus deliver the most commanding exterior expression. These trims emphasize unique detailing, stronger visual contrast elements, and available larger wheel options that reinforce the CX-90’s long, planted proportions. Across the lineup, available wheel sizes typically range from 19-inch to 21-inch designs, enhancing both stance and road presence without disrupting the SUV’s composed silhouette.

At its core, the CX-90 is powered by a 3.3-liter Inline 6 Turbo engine paired with mild hybrid assistance. This configuration produces up to approximately 340 horsepower in Turbo S variants, delivering smooth, continuous acceleration rather than abrupt power spikes. The inline-six layout, mounted longitudinally, contributes to natural balance and refined mechanical flow. Torque is delivered early and steadily, giving the CX-90 a composed surge under acceleration. The mild hybrid system assists during low-speed operation and transitional load conditions, improving responsiveness and overall efficiency. Power is routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission tuned for seamless gear transitions, prioritizing refinement over aggressive shifting behavior.

On the road, the CX-90 feels distinctly rear-biased in character, unusual for a three-row SUV in this class. Steering input is precise and linear, with a measured weight that enhances driver confidence without feeling artificially heavy. The SUV responds predictably through corners, maintaining composure even when road surfaces become uneven. Acceleration builds in a controlled arc, with power delivery remaining steady and progressive rather than sudden. At highway speeds, the CX-90 settles into a stable, planted posture that minimizes unnecessary correction. Suspension tuning absorbs imperfections while still preserving road feedback, striking a balance between comfort and engagement. When properly equipped, towing capability reaches up to approximately 5,000 pounds, reinforcing its utility without compromising its composed driving behavior. The CX-90 is engineered not for aggressive sport driving, but for controlled, confident motion across varied conditions.

Inside, the CX-90 embraces a minimalist, craftsmanship-driven design. Depending on configuration, seating accommodates up to eight passengers, while available second-row captain’s chairs shift the cabin into a more refined, lounge-like layout. The design prioritizes horizontal flow, creating a sense of openness and calm. Materials vary by trim, with available Nappa leather, soft-touch surfaces, and real wood accents contributing to a premium tactile environment. Surfaces are restrained and intentional, avoiding visual clutter in favor of balanced composition. Even lower trims maintain a cohesive sense of refinement through careful material pairing and layout consistency. The infotainment system is integrated into a wide central display supported by a digital instrument cluster. Controls are designed for clarity and reduced distraction, blending touchscreen functionality with physical inputs depending on driving needs. Cargo capacity expands significantly with rear seats folded, allowing the CX-90 to shift seamlessly between passenger comfort and utility demands.

The CX-90 incorporates Mazda’s i-Activsense suite as a continuous driver-assist system designed to support awareness without intrusion. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping support, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision mitigation. These systems are tuned for natural intervention timing, enhancing safety while preserving driver control. Structural reinforcement within the platform further strengthens occupant protection and improves stability under dynamic conditions. The result is a layered safety environment that operates quietly in the background, stepping forward only when necessary. The 2026 Mazda CX-90 ultimately delivers a cohesive experience built around balance, restraint, and engineered precision, positioning it as a standout option in the modern three-row SUV landscape.