2026 Mazda CX90 PHEV Premium Plus Review

Mazda continues its aggressive push upmarket with the 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus, a three-row SUV that looks and feels far more expensive than its badge might suggest.

During my week with the CX90 PHEV, several people commented on the vehicle’s styling, including one gentleman who walked up and asked if it was a BMW. When I told him it was a Mazda, he admitted he didn’t realize Mazda even made luxury SUVs.

Daryl Killian

That reaction perfectly summarizes what Mazda is trying to accomplish with the CX90.

Finished in Deep Crystal Blue Mica with a bright White Nappa leather interior, this CX90 Premium Plus has the kind of color combination typically associated with premium European SUVs. The rich blue exterior gives the vehicle an elegant, upscale presence. At the same time, the white interior creates a modern, luxurious atmosphere that immediately stands out from the sea of common family crossovers.

Mazda has done an excellent job elevating interior materials, overall design, and cabin presentation. The dashboard layout is clean and elegant, while the Premium Plus trim includes enough comfort and technology features to satisfy most luxury SUV shoppers.

Upscale Interior with Family-Friendly Features
Inside, the CX90 PHEV Premium Plus delivers a modern-luxury feel with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The contrast between the dark blue exterior and bright white interior gives this SUV a sophisticated personality that feels much more premium than many buyers may expect from Mazda.

This trim includes:

• White Nappa leather seating
• Panoramic moonroof
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated second row seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Bose 12 speaker premium audio system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wireless phone charging
• Power liftgate
• Three row seating

Daryl Killian

Families will appreciate the charging capability throughout the cabin, with USB charging ports available in all three rows.

Daryl Killian

Interior space is also competitive for the segment. The third row is more usable than expected, although access to it could still be improved compared to some competitors. Cargo room behind the third row is limited, but that is typical for midsize three-row SUVs. Fold the third row down, and the cargo capacity becomes much more practical for road trips and daily family use.

Daryl Killian

Driving Impressions: Smooth Ride, Less Smooth Powertrain
Once underway, the CX90 PHEV rides comfortably, with an upscale, refined feel. Highway ride quality is impressive, and the chassis feels solid and composed.

Where the CX90 PHEV loses some points for me is with the plug-in hybrid drivetrain calibration.

Mazda’s plug-in hybrid system enables approximately 26 miles of EV-only driving and delivers up to 56 MPGe combined.

Daryl Killian

However, at lower speeds, the transition between gasoline and electric power can occasionally feel awkward or hesitant. The drivetrain sometimes feels confused during those transitions, interrupting what would otherwise be a smooth, premium driving experience.

It is not a deal breaker, but drivers sensitive to drivetrain refinement will notice it.

For buyers prioritizing fuel economy while still wanting style and luxury, the CX90 PHEV deserves consideration. But personally, I would choose the CX-90 equipped with Mazda’s 3.3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with i-Active AWD. That powertrain simply feels more natural and better aligned with this SUV's premium personality.

Safety Technology
The 2026 Mazda CX90 PHEV Premium Plus includes an impressive suite of safety and driver assistance technologies, including:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Lane keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Smart brake support
• 360-degree camera system
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Traffic sign recognition
• Head-up display
• Driver attention alert
• Emergency lane keeping assist
• Front cross traffic alert

I would still like to see Mazda offer a more advanced semi-autonomous driving system comparable to what some competitors now provide in this price range.

AutoNsider Buyer’s Guide

Best For:

Families wanting luxury styling without luxury brand pricing
Buyers looking for something unique in the school pickup line
Drivers interested in plug-in hybrid efficiency
Consumers wanting premium interior quality without stepping into European ownership costs

Consider Alternatives If:

You want the smoothest hybrid drivetrain in the segment
Maximum cargo space behind the third row is important
You want advanced hands-free highway driving technology

Competitor Comparison

2026 Mazda CX90 PHEV Premium Plus
Best for upscale styling and premium cabin feel

Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Best for interior space and efficiency

Kia Telluride
Best for value and technology features

Hyundai Palisade
Best for comfort and family usability

Volvo XC90 Recharge
Best for buyers wanting a true European luxury badge

2026 Mazda CX90 Trim Levels and Pricing Guide

Standard Powertrain Models

3.3 Turbo Select AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $40,000
Best for buyers wanting the CX90 design and inline six-cylinder performance at the lowest entry price. Includes AWD, three-row seating, 19-inch wheels, and Mazda safety technology.

3.3 Turbo Preferred AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $43,000
Adds leather seating, heated front seats, power moonroof, wireless charging, and additional convenience features. This is likely the sweet spot for value-focused family buyers.

3.3 Turbo Premium Sport AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $48,000
Adds larger 21-inch wheels, Bose audio, panoramic moonroof, ventilated seats, adaptive lighting, and upgraded technology features. This trim begins to push the CX90 into near-luxury territory.

3.3 Turbo Premium Plus AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $51,000
Adds Nappa leather, additional driver assistance systems, a 360-degree camera, and more premium finishes throughout the cabin.

High Output Turbo Models

3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $55,000
Upgrades output to 340 horsepower and 369 lb. ft of torque using premium fuel. Best for buyers wanting stronger acceleration and more personality.

3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $58,000
The most luxurious gasoline-powered CX90 available. Includes high-output inline six performance, captain’s chairs, premium materials, and advanced technology.

Plug-in Hybrid Models

PHEV Preferred AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $50,000
Entry point into the CX90 plug-in hybrid lineup with approximately 26 miles of EV range and standard AWD.

PHEV Premium Sport AWD
Starting MSRP: Around $55,000
Adds larger wheels, panoramic moonroof, Bose audio, and upgraded interior trim while retaining the efficient plug-in hybrid system.

PHEV Premium Plus AWD
Starting MSRP: $58,500
As Tested: $60,030
The trim tested for this review. Includes White Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seating, premium technology, and upscale styling that visually competes with much more expensive luxury SUVs.

Final Thoughts
The 2026 Mazda CX90 PHEV Premium Plus successfully blurs the line between mainstream and luxury SUVs. It looks expensive, feels upscale, and offers impressive efficiency for families wanting something different from the usual crossover crowd.

While the plug-in hybrid drivetrain could use refinement at low speeds, the overall package remains attractive thanks to its design, premium interior, and practical family features.

If fuel economy is your primary goal, the CX90 PHEV deserves a test drive. But if driving refinement matters most, Mazda’s turbocharged inline six may ultimately be the better choice.

Vehicle Information

2026 Mazda CX90 PHEV Premium Plus
Exterior Color: Deep Crystal Blue Mica
Interior: White Nappa Leather
Powertrain: Plug-in Hybrid AWD
EPA Rating: 56 MPGe Combined

Total MSRP: $60,030, including destination