The Mazda CX-90 is a relatively fresh face in the crowded midsize 3-row SUV market. By comparison, the Honda Pilot stands as a seasoned veteran in the segment, now in its fourth generation after more than two decades of family hauling.
Let’s examine how these two midsize family SUVs stack up against each other and find the right one for you.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The Mazda CX-90, in typical Mazda fashion, is one of the more fun-to-drive SUVs and handles like a smaller vehicle. It also has the refinement comparable to a more expensive luxury SUV without the more premium pricing. Along with the standard turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, a plug-in hybrid powertrain is also available, and all-wheel drive (AWD) comes standard with both.
Mazda CX-90 Highlights
Powertrain options: The Honda Pilot only has one engine option, while the Mazda CX-90 has three. The standard turbo inline-6 engine is available with two different tunings, with the Turbo S models making a respectable 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a plug-in hybrid option that can go up to 26 miles on pure electricity.
Standard AWD: All-wheel drive is optional in the Honda Pilot but comes standard in every Mazda CX-90. This confidence-inspiring system improves grip during spirited driving and provides better traction in slippery conditions.
Classy interior: We like the Honda Pilot’s interior, but the Mazda CX-90’s cabin feels a tad bit nicer. It has an upscale design with quality materials and modern technology, which combines to deliver a more premium experience that would almost rival a German luxury brand.
Read our Mazda CX-90 Expert Review or see 2026 Mazda CX-90 models for sale near you.
2026 Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a trusted name in family SUVs. It has a well-earned reputation for minivan-like functionality and practicality in the form of a stylish SUV. Impressive capabilities, a roomy and comfortable cabin, and modern technology put the Pilot at the top of its game.
Honda Pilot Highlights
More interior space: The Honda Pilot has four additional cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row and two more inches of third-row legroom than the Mazda CX-90. If you frequently use the third row, your passengers will appreciate the extra room in the Pilot.
Family-friendly features: The Honda Pilot shares similarities with the Honda Odyssey minivan, with some of its family-oriented features. CabinTalk is a built-in intercom system that allows front row passengers to talk to the rear without yelling, and a removable middle second-row seat gives you the option of seating for eight or the comfort of captain’s chairs.
Rugged TrailSport trim: The capable Honda Pilot TrailSport has standard all-wheel drive, hill descent control, all-terrain tires, steel skid plates, and the TrailWatch camera system, making it ready for off-road adventures. The Mazda CX-90 doesn’t have a comparable rugged off-road trim.
Read our Honda Pilot Expert Review or see 2026 Honda Pilot models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Mazda CX-90 and Honda Pilot are both midsize SUVs with three rows of seats. They’re also both well decorated with impressive safety scores and awards.
Pricing
New 2026 MAZDA CX-90 Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$40,330 |
$39,200 |
|||
$44,480 |
$43,200 |
|||
$48,510 |
$47,200 |
|||
$51,800 |
$50,400 |
|||
$55,470 |
$53,900 |
|||
$58,900 |
$57,300 |
New 2025 Honda Pilot Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$41,650 |
$40,001 |
|||
$44,950 |
$42,676 |
|||
$48,950 |
$46,496 |
|||
$50,850 |
$48,256 |
|||
$54,530 |
$51,907 |
|||
$56,030 |
$53,407 |
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 2025 Honda Pilot 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.
Specifications
| 2026 MAZDA CX-90 | 2025 Honda Pilot | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.3-liter turbo 6-cylinder | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds | 3,500 pounds |
| Horsepower | 280 hp @ 5,000 rpm | 285 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm | 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 8-speed skyactiv-drive w/manual mode | automatic, 10-speed |
| Fuel Economy | 23 city/28 highway/25 combined mpg | 19 city/27 highway/22 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Wheelbase | 122.8 inches | 113.8 inches |
| Overall Length | 201.6 inches | 199.9 inches |
| Width | 84.9 inches | 78.5 inches |
| Height | 68.3 inches | 71.0 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 37.8 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 40.5 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.3 inches | 40.2 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 36.9 inches | 39.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 41.0 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.4 inches | 40.8 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 30.4 inches | 32.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 59.2 inches | 61.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.1 inches | 61.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 53.3 inches | 59.5 inches |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | 14.9 feet | 21.8 feet |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 40.0 feet | 59.5 feet |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 74.2 feet | 111.8 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Honda Pilot makes a strong case as the more practical of these two family SUVs with a roomier third row and more cargo space. However, the Mazda CX-90 is more fun to drive in the Turbo S variants and offers an efficient plug-in hybrid option. If you want minivan-like practicality in an SUV, the Pilot will serve you and your family well. If you want a hybrid or would like to make the daily commute a little more exciting, check out the more engaging and upscale Mazda CX-90.
