Review of the 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Full-Size SUV
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Posted By: Randi Payton on May 11, 2026 Two years ago, Mazda shook up the big SUV market with the CX-90. It was unique and more enjoyable to drive than many rivals, but it also had some quirks. For 2026, Mazda isn't trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, the CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) improves on small annoyances, adds more premium features as standard, and keeps the fun driving experience. Thank goodness they didn't mess with how it drives. Weighing 5,200 pounds, it is surprisingly nimble for a full-size SUV. You feel the size when parking, but as soon as you turn into a corner, you forget you're driving a three-row family vehicle. Mazda didn't soften the suspension like others do. The rear wheels do most of the pushing, which makes the SUV feel smaller and more planted than expected. Power/Performances: The 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine producing 189 horsepower with an additional 173 horsepower from a 68-kW electric motor and a 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. Together, the system delivers 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The battery offers about 26 miles of all-electric range on a full charge, suitable for most daily commutes or errands. Charging takes approximately 90 minutes with a Level 2 (240V) charger or 6-11 hours from a standard household outlet. Mazda provides an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the hybrid battery. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle: In practice, the CX-90 PHEV defaults to electric power first, switching to gas only when the battery is low or you need extra acceleration. When running on a mix of gas and electricity, it achieves 56 MPGe. Once the battery is depleted, it operates like a traditional hybrid, returning about 25-26 MPG combined. You can also press "Charge Mode" to use the gas engine to top off the battery while driving. Overall, it's designed for suburban commuters who can plug in nightly, saving gas during the week while still having the range for longer road trips. Acceleration: From a stoplight, the electric motor is quick to go. Then the gas engine kicks in. The transition is smooth, but sometimes the transmission struggles to find the right gear. Still, I prefer this character over the numb, boring feel of most SUVs in this class. For 2026, Mazda responded to customer feedback by standardizing luxury features across all PHEV trims. Every CX-90 PHEV now comes with 21-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel—features that previously cost nearly $60,000 to add. Mazda also enhanced seating flexibility: the top Premium Plus trim now offers an optional second-row bench seat instead of only captain's chairs. This change allows you to carry seven people while still enjoying high-end Nappa leather and intricate Japanese stitching. Interior/Exterior: The Premium Plus cabin features genuine maple wood trim, soft Nappa leather, and handcrafted "Kakenui" stitching that rivals European brands. Outside, the CX-90 maintains its sleek, understated Kodo design—it doesn't shout for attention like a BMW or Mercedes. Overall, the 2026 updates focus on refinement and value, making the CX-90 PHEV a smarter choice for families seeking a premium feel without the premium price. Models/Price: The CX-90 offers three trim levels: The PHEV Preferred ($50,695), which includes leather and large wheels; The PHEV Premium Sport ($55,500), featuring dark, aggressive styling and a panoramic sunroof; and the PHEV Premium Plus ($58,700), fully equipped with a larger screen, 360-degree camera, Nappa leather, and ventilated second-row seats. Mazda sold a record 6,800 CX-90s in August 2025 alone. People are buying these because they're tired of boring SUVs. Visit Decisive Media Network for a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, where you can find updated car-buying tips and reviews on new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! 
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Randi Payton
Entrepreneurial Journalism Instructor, Multimedia Training Institute University of the District of Columbia class of 1982 Member Since December 2020 |
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