The phrase A for effort is apropos for this week’s vehicle. Mazda, a brand I’ve had many issues with, continues to make good effort to improve their product and does a good job of listening to criticism and making changes as needed. Mazda is a brand that seems to know its customer base and knows what they want. And then they focus on that.
Judging by the 2026 Mazda CX-90, what the customer wants and what Mazda delivers is a near-premium SUV with just enough driving personality to help separate it from the pack.
Mazda has spent the last few years convincing buyers that it deserves a seat at the premium table, and the 2026 CX-90 PHEV may be its strongest argument yet. Combining three-row practicality with plug-in hybrid efficiency and a surprisingly upscale driving experience, this flagship SUV continues to blur the line between mainstream and luxury.
Most notable when it comes this SUV’s looks is the long hood. It gives an elegant appearance. The CX-90 is not overly stylized either, meaning this should age gracefully.
Rather than relying on oversized grilles and aggressive bodywork, Mazda lets clean lines and well-executed details do the talking. The result is a vehicle that looks more expensive than its badge might suggest.
Mazda has always been a driver-focused brand. And it’s this philosophy that shines through in the CX-90. Despite being a PHEV, there’s still plenty of power with 323 horsepower thanks to a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motor assist. The 323 hp is adequate for the size and the 369 pound-feet of torque brings some enthusiasm to the driver. It’s not dull at all, but that’s almost always the case with any Mazda. There’s an eight-speed automatic transmission and my tester had all-wheel drive.
Inside, the cabin continues Mazda’s march toward high-society (sort of). Material quality is impressive with a premium look and feel. For 2026, additional equipment and technology enhancements improve the ownership experience, while available high-end touches help the CX-90 compete with vehicles wearing luxury badges. This still feels like a bit of hyperbole, and it’s hard to convince the average consumer, but if interior quality, and best “bang for your buck”, then Mazda has a slew of vehicles for you, including this impressive CX-90.
That said, practicality remains the CX-90’s biggest compromise. The third row is tighter than many competitors, and cargo capacity trails several segment leaders. Families who frequently carry adults in all three rows, or who prioritize maximum cargo volume, may find rivals like the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade more accommodating.
For 2026, Mazda has also worked to address criticisms of earlier models. Updated technology, additional standard equipment, and refinement improvements help make the CX-90 PHEV feel more complete. Features such as larger digital displays and expanded comfort amenities add value without changing the vehicle’s core identity.
My tester was the Premium Sport trim with a base price of $55,500. It’s hard to justify dropping that kind of money on a Mazda, but again, there is a lot of value to be found in both the driving and the interior. It’s not flawless by any stretch, but it has merit too. One such merit, as the PHEV is the fuel economy. When fully charged, you can get around 27 miles of pure EV driving range. Which makes the overall fuel economy impressive at 56 MPGe. The standard 2.5-liter gas-powered engine is rated at 24 mpg/city and 28 mpg/highway. For an SUV this size, that alone is fairly impressive, but with the extra electric boost, it can help justify with far fewer trips to the gas station.
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is not the most spacious three-row SUV, nor is it the most efficient plug-in hybrid. What it offers instead is a compelling blend of style, premium character, engaging road manners, and electrified versatility. For families who still enjoy driving and want something more distinctive than the typical midsize SUV, the CX-90 PHEV remains one of the segment’s most interesting choices. It won’t fit every lifestyle perfectly, but it succeeds in delivering something increasingly rare in this class: personality with a touch of elegance.
Jimmy Dinsmore is a syndicated, freelance automotive journalist. Email him at jimmydinsmore73@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @driversside
2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Sport
Price/As tested price………………… $55,550/$55,5590
Mileage…………………………………… 24 mpg/city; 28 mpg/hwy; 56 MPGe
Engine……………………………………… 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with electric motor assist
Horsepower……………………………… 323 hp/369 lbs./ft.
Transmission……………………………. 8-speed automatic
Drive Wheels……………………………. All-wheel drive
Final Assembly Point………………… Hofu, Japan
