- The 2026 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sets the tone for the brand’s SUV lineup with its near-luxury feel
- Pricing starts at $52,025| Price it your way
- Rivals to the CX-90 PHEV include the Volvo XC90, Kia Sorento PHEV, and others | See Mazda CX-90 PHEV models for sale near you
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) strikes a balance between mainstream and luxury, offering a premium driving experience at a relatively affordable price.
Powerful and athletic, the CX-90 PHEV brings a high-class interior that matches its stylish exterior. With three rows, you can have up to seven passengers or fold the third row down for more cargo. The 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is the most expensive Mazda vehicle in its SUV lineup, but exploring its features might just convince you it’s an excellent deal. The 3-row SUV gets up to 26 miles on electric power before its 4-cylinder gasoline engine kicks in, putting out 323 horsepower from the combination when running on 91 octane gasoline. With standard all-wheel drive (AWD) for added traction, the CX-90 PHEV is a great drive.
However, the CX-90’s cabin steals the show. Let’s take a look inside.
Passenger Room and Comfort
The CX-90 PHEV model showcases Mazda’s dedication to driver and passenger comfort. With the driver in mind, Mazda includes heated and ventilated seats standard across all three trims. Drivers can manage their position with 8-way power-adjustable seats. A heated steering wheel is a nice touch for those cold mornings.
The cabin’s comfort carries through to every row, starting with heated seats in the front and second rows. The front passenger also benefits from an 8‑way power‑adjustable seat. In the second row, buyers can opt for either a bench seat or a pair of captain’s chairs, and passengers there also get retractable window shades.
Head, leg, and shoulder room in the first two rows is about average for the class. The third row features a bench that’s a bit snug, but access is made easier thanks to the second row’s split bench, which tilts and slides for easier entry to the back.
Cargo Room and Flexibility
With three rows, the CX‑90 PHEV offers practical and versatile seating configurations. Higher trims include a hands-free rear power liftgate with programmable height adjustment, making cargo access easier.
Cargo space measures 14.9 cubic feet with the third row upright, but folding it down opens up to 40.0 cubic feet, providing plenty of room for larger items. However, those spaces are a bit smaller than average for this class, but that’s a consequence of Mazda’s attractive styling. Rivals with more cargo space tend to be boxier.
The PHEV battery does not eat up much cargo space — a problem in some other PHEVs.
Features and Tech
The CX-90 PHEV’s cabin offers an impressive array of new technology. The driver faces a display screen in place of old-fashioned gauges, letting you customize the information you’d like to see there.
A 12.3-inch central screen handles entertainment and information functions within the Mazda Connect infotainment system. Its operation is a little curious. Most functions are controlled through what Mazda calls the “multifunction commander controller” on the center console, also known as a big dial. However, you can also use voice commands to handle several functions.
The CX-90 PHEV features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and smartphone charging can be done wirelessly on models. Climate controls, thankfully, get old-fashioned tactile buttons. There’s no need to look away from the road to make adjustments. The base model comes with an 8-speaker audio system, while upper trims feature a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound system. Each row of seats has climate-control vents — a nice luxury at an affordable price.
Materials and Design
Among mainstream automakers, Mazda is known for its near-luxury cabin designs. The CX-90 PHEV fits that bill, with either convincing faux leather or the real thing, depending on which trim level you choose.
More affordable cars often have harder plastics on the dashboard and center console, but Mazda upholsters many of those areas. That lends the CX-90 PHEV an upscale feel. We’re also fans of a center screen placed high on the dashboard so you don’t have to look down from the road to see what it’s showing you.
Build and price your 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV to see this week’s Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price, or check out CX-90 PHEV models for sale near you.
