2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo

Mazda, the little company that could (and often does, with driver-focused flair), isn’t playing coy anymore.

They’re striding confidently into premium territory, aiming squarely at established luxury players while hoping to lure mainstream buyers seeking something more special.

Their weapon of choice in the hotly contested three-row SUV arena? The Mazda CX-90. Launched for the 2024 model year, it represents a significant leap – a new platform, new engines, and a distinctly upmarket vibe.

Now, you might be searching for insights on the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo. As of Spring 2025, concrete details and specific reviews for the 2026 iteration are still under wraps, typically arriving later in the year.

However, based on industry patterns and early whispers (like Edmunds suggesting “no major changes expected”), the 2026 model is likely to be a continuation of the first generation, possibly with minor tweaks and package adjustments.

Therefore, diving deep into the reviews and experiences of the current (2024/2025) Mazda CX-90 Turbo provides the clearest picture of what potential 2026 buyers can likely expect.

So, let’s dissect what the critics and owners are saying about Mazda’s big bet, focusing specifically on the Turbo models.

The Heart of the Matter: That Inline-Six Turbo Powertrain

The headline act is undoubtedly Mazda’s all-new 3.3-liter inline-six turbocharged engine, augmented by a mild-hybrid system (MHEV). This marks a return to a beloved engine configuration known for smoothness and power, signaling Mazda’s premium intentions. It comes in two flavors:

1. Turbo: Producing a healthy 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.
2. Turbo S: Dialing up the excitement to a robust 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (using premium fuel).

Paired with a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission designed without a traditional torque converter (it uses a wet clutch), the powertrain promises both efficiency and direct engagement.

What The Reviews Say:

• Power Delivery: The Turbo S variant earns consistent praise for its potent acceleration. Figures like 0-60 mph in the mid-6-second range (Car and Driver clocked 6.6 seconds for a 20k-mile test car) are genuinely quick for a hefty three-row SUV. It provides effortless highway merging and passing power, accompanied by a satisfying, if sometimes subtly muted, inline-six growl at higher revs. The standard Turbo is generally considered adequate for most family hauling duties but lacks the assertive punch of its S-badged sibling.
• Refinement Quirks: Here’s where opinions diverge slightly. While the inline-six promises smoothness, some long-term tests (notably Car and Driver’s 40,000-mile run) have noted a “crass side.” This includes some grumbling at idle and occasional low-speed transmission hesitation or slight shudders as the clutch engages/disengages. It’s not universally flagged as a deal-breaker, but it suggests the powertrain’s calibration, particularly at lower speeds, might lack the final polish found in some German rivals. Others find the MHEV system “almost imperceptible.”
• Fuel Economy: Real-world results seem respectable, if not chart-topping. Car and Driver observed 22-23 mpg overall in their long-term tests, slightly below the EPA combined estimate of 25 mpg (for the Turbo S). That’s decent for a powerful, AWD three-row, but competitors like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offer significantly better figures.

Mazda’s Soul: Handling and Ride Dynamics

Mazda built its reputation on making cars that are enjoyable to drive, regardless of segment. The CX-90, built on their new “Large Platform” architecture with a longitudinal engine layout and standard rear-biased i-Activ All-Wheel Drive, aims to continue this legacy.

It features a sophisticated double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension setup, along with Mazda’s Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) technology, which subtly brakes the inside rear wheel during cornering to reduce body roll.

What the Reviews Say:

• Engaging Handling: This is a standout strength. Reviewers consistently praise the CX-90’s sharp steering response and controlled body motions. For a large vehicle, it feels surprisingly agile and composed on winding roads, inspiring driver confidence. Terms like “sporty handling,” “dynamic,” and “outperforms its class” frequently appear. One user review even compared it favorably to a Porsche Cayenne (perhaps a touch hyperbolic, but indicative of the positive impression).
• Ride Comfort: Generally described as comfortable, especially on the highway. The suspension effectively smooths out most road imperfections. However, some reviewers, particularly during extended testing, noted that the ride, especially on models with the larger 21-inch wheels, can feel firm over sharper bumps or broken pavement, perhaps betraying its athletic tuning. It might not be as plush as some competitors focused purely on comfort.
• Big Car, Nimble Feel: Despite its considerable size, drivers report the CX-90 doesn’t feel overly cumbersome to maneuver or park, aided by good visibility and responsive controls.

Inside Story: Premium Ambitions Meet Practical Realities

Mazda has poured effort into making the CX-90’s cabin feel genuinely premium. High-quality materials, thoughtful design, and solid-feeling switchgear are hallmarks.

What the Reviews Say:

• Atmosphere and Materials: Across the board, reviewers commend the interior’s upscale ambiance. Soft-touch surfaces, available Nappa leather, genuine wood trim (on top trims), and tasteful metallic accents create an environment that punches above its price point, convincingly rivaling entry-level luxury brands. The design is clean, driver-focused, and avoids gimmickry.
• Infotainment & Tech: Here lies the CX-90’s most polarizing aspect. It features a landscape-oriented screen (10.3 or 12.3 inches) running the Mazda Connect system. While bright and clear, it relies primarily on a central rotary control knob, with touchscreen functionality often limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (which are standard wirelessly). Many reviewers find this system less intuitive and more cumbersome than touch-centric interfaces in rivals, calling it overdue for an overhaul. On the plus side, the retention of physical buttons for climate control is widely appreciated. Standard driver-assist features are comprehensive.
• Space and Practicality: While the cabin feels spacious up front and offers comfortable seating (though some find the front seats slightly narrow), the CX-90 isn’t the most cavernous three-row on the market. Reviewers consistently point out that third-row legroom and overall cargo capacity lag behind segment leaders like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Grand Highlander. Cargo space behind the third row is adequate (around 257 liters) but not expansive. Access is good, with large door openings.

The Mazda CX-90 Turbo is a compelling, stylish, and dynamically rewarding entry into the premium three-row SUV space.

Pros:

• Strong performance from the Turbo S inline-six engine.
• Sharp, engaging handling that belies its size.
• Genuinely premium interior design and materials.
• Attractive exterior styling.
• Good roster of standard features.

Cons:

• The powertrain can exhibit some low-speed lack of refinement.
• The infotainment system relies heavily on a rotary controller, which frustrates many.
• Third-row seating and cargo space are tighter than key competitors.
• The ride can be firm on rough surfaces, especially with larger wheels.

Who is it For?

The CX-90 Turbo appeals most to drivers who prioritize driving enjoyment and interior style over maximum passenger and cargo volume.

It’s for the family who doesn’t want to give up feeling connected to the road, the buyer seeking near-luxury refinement without the luxury badge price, and someone who appreciates Mazda’s distinctive design philosophy.

Looking Towards 2026

While we await official confirmation, expect the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo to largely mirror the vehicle reviewed here.

Potential minor refinements might address some powertrain smoothness concerns or perhaps offer slight infotainment tweaks, but the fundamental strengths (driving dynamics, interior quality) and weaknesses (relative lack of space, infotainment interface) are likely to carry over.

If you value how an SUV drives and how its cabin makes you feel, the Mazda CX-90 Turbo remains a must-test, even as we anticipate any subtle enhancements the 2026 model year might bring. It’s Mazda’s ambitious play, and for the right buyer, it hits a definite sweet spot.

Estimated Release Date:

• Most sources, including Edmunds and automotive news channels, predict the 2026 Mazda CX-90 will likely arrive in dealerships in Fall 2025. Some estimates suggest it could be late 2025 or possibly early 2026.
• Since the CX-90 was introduced for the 2024 model year, major changes are not expected for 2026, suggesting a standard model year rollout timeline.

Estimated Price (USD):

• Starting Price: The base 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo (likely the ‘Select’ trim) is estimated to start around $40,000, excluding destination charges. This is a slight potential increase from the 2025 model’s starting MSRP of roughly $37,845.
• Higher Trims: Fully equipped higher trims, like the Turbo S Premium Plus, could reach into the high $50,000s or potentially low-to-mid $60,000s range (roughly $58,000 – $65,000), depending on included features and potential new option packages.

Keep in Mind:

• These figures are estimates and subject to change based on market conditions and Mazda’s official pricing strategy.
• The prices listed are generally for the US market (USD). Official pricing for Indonesia would be announced by Mazda Indonesia closer to the launch date and would include local taxes, import duties, and registration fees, likely resulting in different figures.

For the most accurate information, keep an eye out for official announcements from Mazda later in 2025.