Affordable three-row plug-in hybrids are still relatively uncommon, but one Japanese PHEV stands out by bringing a compelling mix of efficiency, practicality, and refinement that rivals many luxury-brand alternatives. While premium SUVs often command high price tags for comparable features and technology, this model manages to offer three-row versatility and electrified driving without stretching your budget.
What makes it especially noteworthy is how well it balances fuel savings with everyday usability. Its hybrid system delivers strong efficiency and reduced fuel costs, while the spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a solid choice for families. Advanced safety systems and intuitive tech further elevate the experience, bringing elements usually found in luxury competitors into a more attainable package.
For buyers who want the capability and sophistication of a high-end three-row SUV without the luxury-brand price premium, this PHEV proves that smart engineering and thoughtful design can bridge the gap. It’s an option worth serious consideration in a segment where value and features rarely align so well.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
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Mazda has moved upmarket, and the CX-90 PHEV proves it
If you’re looking for a three-row plug-in hybrid with a comfortable and luxurious interior, you’ll quickly find that most options on the market are going to cost you an arm and a leg. However, the CX-90, while not exactly cheap, stretches your dollar further and offers a cabin that is genuinely capable of competing with much more expensive luxury options.
2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trims and pricing
Model
Starting MSRP
Preferred
$50,495
Premium Sport
$55,300
Premium Plus
$58,500
Some people might find it hard to wrap their heads around paying over $50,000 for a Mazda, but the CX-90 is actually a pretty good deal if you look at it within context. It starts a little more expensive than some other mainstream three-row hybrids, like the Toyota Grand Highlander and the upcoming Hyundai Palisade, but it genuinely does offer a much more upscale experience. If you were looking for a luxury option in the same segment, you would be paying thousands of dollars more.
Mazda has upgraded the standard equipment on the CX-90 for the 2026 model year, which helps to further justify its price tag. Models now come standard with things like 21-inch wheels, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a memory function, ventilated front seats, and heated front and second row seats. Amazon’s Alexa has also now been integrated into every model moving forward.
Best value trim
We would opt for the middle of the road Premium Sport model. It does cost a bit more than the base model, but it comes with some high-end kit that is pretty desirable. It comes with an upgraded sound system, a sunroof, second-row captain’s chairs, and built-in navigation. It also comes with blacked out exterior elements that further add to the sexy styling of the CX-90 and help it feel even more like a premium SUV.
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The CX-90 is efficient and powerful, and offers useful all-electric range
Credit: Mazda
Mazda has built a reputation for building cars that are fun to drive. Whether you’re in an affordable hatchback or a three-row SUV, if it bears the Mazda badge, then you know that it will be more fun than most of its competitors. While the CX-90 PHEV is a little heavy and definitely does feel like an SUV, we really have to applaud the Japanese automaker’s ability to keep things interesting.
2026 Mazda CX-90 performance
Engine
2.5-liter inline-four (PHEV)
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Horsepower
323 HP
Torque
369 LB-FT
Driveline
AWD
0-60 MPH
5.9 seconds
Top speed
118 MPH
Max towing capacity
3,500 LBS
The CX-90 is special in a lot of ways, one of them being that it is powered by the first plug-in hybrid system designed in-house at Mazda. It combines a naturally aspirated inline-four engine with an electric motor to put down a pretty impressive amount of power. All-wheel drive is standard here, and every model comes with a pretty smooth shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
The CX-90 PHEV is surprisingly playful for such a large and plush looking SUV. The gas engine sounds pretty fantastic and the instant torque that the electric motor provides makes it feel peppier than you’d expect off the line. The most beautiful part about this car is its chassis tuning though. For such a heavy vehicle, the CX-90 feels lithe and ready to be pushed through twisty back roads. We will say that steering is a little bit heavy for a car like this though.
Fuel economy and range
Model
City
Highway
Combined
CX-90
24 MPG
27 MPG
25 MPG
The gas engine in the CX-90 is not the most efficient in its class, but it isn’t the thirstiest either. It delivers about the same efficiency as you’d get from the non-hybrid model. However, the PHEV obviously also comes with a battery pack and can run on electric power alone.
Every 2026 CX-90 comes equipped with a 17.8-kWh battery pack. While this might not be industry-shifting, it does offer some great savings on shorter trips around town. The EPA estimates that you can ride on electric power for a total of 26 miles, which is pretty reasonable. On a 240-volt charger, the battery will replenish itself in as little as 90 minutes, and you can easily charge the CX-90 overnight with a 120-volt charger at home.
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Mazda proves that it is capable of delivering genuine luxury with the CX-90
Credit: Mazda
If you’re looking for a sleek and plush family car, there are honestly few options out there that are as well-designed as the CX-90, luxury or not. It comes loaded to the brim with modern technology, including a few standard features that you’d have to pay extra for in a luxury model. Interior materials are also pretty fantastic for a car that wears a mainstream badge.
Interior dimensions and comfort
Front row headroom
39.6 inches
Front row legroom
41.7 inches
Second row headroom
38.4 inches
Second row legroom
39.4 inches
Third row headroom
36.8 inches
Third row legroom
30.4 inches
Cargo capacity (behind third row)
14.9 cubic feet
The CX-90 can carry up to seven passengers. It is an odd arrangement where, if you opt for the second-row bench, Mazda says the third row is only good for two, while models equipped with second-row captain’s chairs are rated to hold three passengers in the back-most seats. As with most mid-size three-row SUVs, the third-row seats are mainly only usable for children. Space in the trunk behind the third row is limited, but tuck away those seats, and you gain access to up to 40 cubic feet of space.
Inside, you’d be hard-pressed to say that the CX-90 isn’t a luxury car if you didn’t know what brand made it. The highest trims even come equipped with fine materials, like Nappa leather upholstery. As mentioned, there are also plenty of standard comfort features, including multi-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, and a power-operated glass moonroof.
Infotainment and technology
Mazda handles the infotainment screen better than most brands. Rather than making it a gimmicky focal point, the brand cushions it between soft materials as it rises up out of the dashboard, making it feel more like an accent. The screen is a 12.3-inch touchscreen that can also be operated via voice controls or a rotary dial that sits on the center console.
The Japanese PHEV comes equipped with plenty of tech features that help it achieve its upscale aspirations. Things like wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and Amazon Alexa are all standard. An eight-speaker sound system is standard, but top models come equipped with a much nicer 12-speaker Bose system instead.
