2026 Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90
2026 Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90
When comparing the Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90, both models share many features and powertrains. The CX-70 seats five, while the three-row CX-90 seats up to eight. Both offer turbocharged engines and plug-in hybrid options. Here’s a look at the major differences between these two great options.
Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90: The Main Differences
Although the 2026 CX-70 and 2026 CX-90 share much of their underlying engineering, there are several important differences to consider:
- The CX-70 seats up to five passengers, while the CX-90 can seat up to eight.
- The CX-70 offers a two-row layout with substantial cargo space.
- The CX-90 provides the flexibility of a third row for additional passengers.
- Both SUVs offer 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engines.
- Both are available as plug-in hybrids.
- Properly equipped CX-70 turbo models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
- The CX-70 has a sportier two-row personality, while the CX-90 is geared more toward family transportation.
- The CX-90 has a lower starting MSRP, although pricing varies significantly by trim and powertrain.
For shoppers who rarely need a third row, the CX-70 may be the more natural fit. For larger families or anyone who regularly carries more than five people, the CX-90 offers a clear practical advantage.
Exterior Design and Styling
In evaluating the Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90 design, both feature Mazda's modern interpretation of a premium SUV. Their long proportions, sculpted bodywork and prominent front grilles give them a more upscale appearance than many mainstream midsize SUVs.
The two models are closely related visually, but their different purposes give each one a slightly different character.
2026 Mazda CX-70
The CX-70 has a sporty and athletic appearance that fits its two-row configuration. Its design emphasizes a confident stance and sleek proportions rather than trying to look like a traditional large family SUV.
For 2026, certain CX-70 trims feature black exterior accents and 21-inch black alloy wheels, giving the SUV a more aggressive appearance.
The CX-70 is a particularly good choice for drivers who want the practicality of a midsize SUV without the visual bulk associated with larger three-row models.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 has a longer profile that accommodates its available third row. Despite its larger passenger capacity, Mazda has given the CX-90 a sleek and sophisticated appearance rather than making it look like a conventional boxy family crossover.
Higher trims can add premium styling details, including larger wheels and darker exterior accents.
Overall, the CX-90 looks more substantial than the CX-70, while the CX-70 has a slightly sportier appearance. Both maintain the premium design language that has become a defining characteristic of Mazda's current SUV lineup.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, both SUVs combine upscale materials with a relatively driver-focused cabin. Rather than relying entirely on large touchscreens, Mazda continues to emphasize physical controls and an intuitive driving environment.
The major interior difference is once again the seating configuration.
2026 Mazda CX-70
The CX-70 provides seating for five passengers across two rows. That configuration makes it particularly useful for couples, smaller families and drivers who prioritize cargo capacity over maximum passenger seating.
With the rear seats folded, the CX-70 provides up to 75.3 cubic feet of cargo space. That makes it well suited to carrying luggage, outdoor equipment, groceries and other large items.
Depending on trim, available technology and comfort features include a 12.3-inch center display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa Built-in and a Bose premium audio system.
Higher trims can add upscale features such as Nappa leather upholstery, a 360-degree View Monitor and additional driver-assistance technology.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 offers more passenger flexibility. Depending on configuration, it can seat up to eight people, while versions with second-row captain's chairs provide seating for seven.
That additional row makes the CX-90 particularly useful for larger families. It can also be helpful for drivers who frequently transport friends, relatives or groups of passengers.
The CX-90 offers many of the same premium features as the CX-70, including available Nappa leather, ventilated seats, a panoramic moonroof and Bose premium audio.
The tradeoff is cargo space. With all three rows in use, the CX-90 has less room behind the third row than the CX-70 has behind its second row. Folding the third row, however, provides considerably more usable cargo capacity.
Engines, Hybrid Options, and Driving Experience
Looking at the performance aspect of the Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90, Mazda gives both SUVs a range of versatile powertrain choices. The available turbocharged inline-six is especially noteworthy because it provides strong performance while retaining the smooth character expected from a premium SUV.
2026 Mazda CX-70
The CX-70's available 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel.
The more powerful Turbo S version produces up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system also helps improve efficiency.
The CX-70 can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it useful for boats, trailers and recreational equipment.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 uses the same basic engine strategy. Its 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six produces 280 horsepower in standard form and up to 340 horsepower in Turbo S models.
The CX-90 also uses an eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and Mazda's 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.
Like the CX-70, the CX-90 can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The CX-90 PHEV combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 323 horsepower. It can travel roughly 27 miles on electric power before the gasoline engine becomes the primary source of propulsion.
Fuel Economy and Driving Range
Fuel economy is fairly similar between the two SUVs because they share many of the same mechanical components.
2026 Mazda CX-70
The standard CX-70 Turbo is rated at approximately 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined.
The Turbo S is rated at approximately 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined.
The CX-70 PHEV provides an alternative for drivers who want to complete shorter trips using electric power. It has an estimated electric range of approximately 30 miles and a combined rating of 61 MPGe.
For drivers who can charge at home and have relatively short daily commutes, the PHEV can potentially reduce gasoline consumption considerably.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 Turbo models also achieve approximately 25 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The Turbo S is rated at approximately 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined.
The CX-90 PHEV has an estimated electric range of roughly 27 miles and a combined rating of approximately 56 MPGe.
Mazda estimates a total driving range of around 500 miles for the CX-90 PHEV.
The CX-70 therefore has a slight advantage in its published electric range and MPGe figures, while the CX-90's advantage is its additional passenger capacity.
2026 Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90 Pricing and Trims
When weighing the Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90 on value, pricing can vary considerably depending on engine, trim level and optional equipment, so shoppers should compare similarly equipped models rather than focusing only on the starting price.
2026 Mazda CX-70
The 2026 CX-70 Turbo lineup starts with the Turbo Preferred at approximately $42,750.
Other Turbo models include the Premium and Premium Plus. Drivers looking for additional performance can move up to the Turbo S lineup, which goes for $53,440 to $56,870.
The CX-70 PHEV starts at $44,500, with higher trims adding more luxury and technology features.
Because the CX-70 is a two-row SUV, buyers aren't paying for a third-row seating system they may never use. That can make it an appealing option for drivers who want a premium midsize SUV with plenty of cargo room.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The 2026 CX-90 starts at approximately $39,300 for the Turbo Select, making its entry price lower than that of the CX-70.
The Turbo Preferred, Premium Sport and Premium Plus provide progressively more equipment and luxury features. Turbo S versions sit higher in the lineup and offer the more powerful version of Mazda's inline-six engine.
The CX-90 PHEV starts at $49,945.
Pricing ultimately depends heavily on the configuration, but the CX-90 gives buyers the option of getting three-row seating without necessarily moving into the luxury-SUV price range.
Which Mazda SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?
The 2026 Mazda CX-70 seats five and offers plenty of cargo space, making it a practical choice for drivers who don't need a third row.
The CX-90 seats up to eight across three rows, making it a better fit for larger families and drivers who regularly carry extra passengers.
If you don't need a third row, the CX-70 offers a simple, spacious two-row layout. If passenger capacity is important, the CX-90 provides added flexibility.
Compare the CX-70 vs. CX-90 at Autex Mazda
Still deciding between the two? Compare the Mazda CX-70 vs. CX-90 side by side to see which SUV best fits your needs. The CX-70 offers a sporty two-row design with plenty of cargo space, while the CX-90 adds a third row and seating for up to eight. Visit Autex Mazda in Keene, NH, to explore available models, trims and features. Our team can help you find the right Mazda for your lifestyle and budget.