2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Comparison

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 and Chevrolet Traverse are close competitors in the midsize SUV market. Both offer ample passenger and cargo space, but each has very different capabilities and attitudes. Both models have minimal updates from the 2025 model year.

Let’s see how the CX-90 and Traverse compare.

2026 Mazda CX-90

The CX-90 has a refined interior and seating for up to eight people, making it a family-friendly vehicle with a touch of class. It uses an inline-6-cylinder engine — a type usually found in luxury cars — and torque vectoring to make it handle with poise. Those are rarities in this price range, making it the choice for those who need a family hauler but love to drive.

Mazda CX-90 Highlights

Mazda’s signature athletic ride and handling: The CX-90 is powered by a 280-hp turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Turbo S models are equipped with a 340-hp turbocharged engine, making for a sportier drive.

Mazda’s Kinematic Posture Control subtly applies braking to the inside rear wheel during cornering, reducing body roll and enhancing stability. It’s a small but effective touch that makes the CX‑90 feel more composed in corners than many SUVs in this class.

Up-to-date tech: The CX-90 is equipped with a 10.25-inch infotainment display, which can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen. A knob controls the system and has a bit of a learning curve. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and, new for 2026, Alexa integration are standard.

Mazda provides a few additional amenities, including an eight-speaker sound system, dual USB-C ports, a seven-inch LCD multi-information display, push-button start, a remote keyless entry system with illuminated entry, and climate control.

Advanced safety: Every CX-90 is equipped with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of driver-assistance features, including full-speed adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see CX-90 models near you. 

2026 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2026 Traverse is a carryover of the 2025 model. It has one of the most spacious interiors in its class, and an available advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that can take over some of the work of highway driving. Chevrolet has two new paint options: Polar White and Sandstone Gray.

Traverse Highlights

More base engine power: The Traverse is powered by a 328-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It comes with either standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD). That’s a lot more power than the base CX-90, though the optional turbocharged engine in the Mazda has even more. The steering and brakes are adequate, and, overall, it’s a pleasant SUV to drive.

Big everything: The Traverse has a whopping 17.7-inch diagonal color touchscreen with Google Maps built in, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. That’s one of the largest screens in the segment.

It’s not the only big thing about the Traverse. The Chevy’s interior is larger in every dimension. It has more head-, leg-, and shoulder room in all three rows, plus more cargo space.

Super Cruise: One of our favorite features is Super Cruise, which allows for eyes-on-the-road, hands-off-the-wheel driving on approximately 750,000 miles of North American highways. It can even do hands-free lane changes.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see Traverse models near you. 

Similarities

The Mazda CX-90 and Chevrolet Traverse have similar infotainment tech and starting prices.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 MAZDA CX-90 vehicles and New 2026 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Conclusion

For a sleeker, classier exterior and athletic driving manners, the CX-90 takes the lead. Choose the Traverse if you need more space or want the convenience of Super Cruise.