If you're shopping for a three-row family SUV, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander third-row seating SUV comparison is one to consider. Both vehicles offer room for the whole crew, but they take noticeably different approaches to performance, interior comfort, and driver confidence. Here's a closer look at what sets the CX-90 apart for families near Shiloh, Illinois, who want more than just a seat count.Â
Interior Space and Seating FlexibilityÂ
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is the largest SUV in the Mazda lineup, and it's designed to make the most of that size. Seating capacity reaches up to 8 passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat, or 7 passengers with the available second-row captain's chairs.Â
Cargo space is equally generous. With all rows upright, the CX-90 offers up to 14.9 cu.ft. of storage behind the third row. Fold the second and third rows flat, and that figure expands to up to 74.2 cu.ft.— plenty of room for road trip luggage, sports equipment, or grocery runs.Â
The interior cabin is crafted with premium materials, available Nappa leather-trimmed seats, and thoughtful finishes designed to create a comfortable environment for everyone on board.
Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the CX-90 is powered by Mazda's e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Turbo Inline 6 engine that produces up to 280 hp and 332 lb.ft. of torque, paired with a SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode.
Step up to the 3.3 Turbo S trims,and output climbs to 340 hp and 369 lb.ft. of torque.
All CX-90 models come standard with i-Activ AWD®, which proactively monitors vehicle dynamics data in real time and adjusts torque distribution before a wheel begins to slip. The available Mi-Drive system allows drivers to switch between Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Safety Technology and Ratings
Safety is a strong point for the 2026 Mazda CX-90. The vehicle has earned a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award — part of a group of eight Mazda vehicles that received that recognition, more than any other brand as of August 2025. It also holds a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Standard i-Activsense® safety features across all trim levels include Smart Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring. Available features on higher trims include Road Keep Assist, Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist, Cruising and Traffic Support, Driver Monitoring, and a 360° View Monitor with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View.
The standard Rear Seat Alert reminds drivers to check the rear seating area before exiting the vehicle. When comparing the 2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander third-row seating SUV for overall safety coverage, the CX-90's suite of standard and available driver assistance features covers a wide range of real-world driving situations.
Technology and Connectivity
The CX-90 keeps everyone connected from the first row to the third. All models include a 12.3-in infotainment display, Bluetooth® connectivity, Apple CarPlay® integration, and Android Auto™ integration through the Mazda Connect™ infotainment system.
Passengers in the second and third rows can stay charged via available USB-C charging outlets. A front 12-volt accessory outlet provides additional charging flexibility up front. An available Bose® premium audio system delivers refined sound quality throughout the cabin.
Mazda Connected Services, included as a one-year trial with every new CX-90, adds features like Remote Engine Start through the MyMazda app, vehicle status updates, and roadside assistance support. The available panoramic moonroof lets in natural light and helps the cabin feel open and airy, which passengers in all three rows will appreciate on longer drives.Â
Trim Levels: Finding the Right Fit
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is available in six trim levels, giving buyers a wide range of options based on their preferences and budget. The 3.3 Turbo Select includes leatherette-trimmed seats, i-Activ AWD®, and three-row seating for up to eight passengers.Â
The 3.3 Turbo Preferred adds a power sliding-glass moonroof, leather-trimmed heated front and second-row seats, and 21-in alloy wheels. The 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport steps up with a 5,000-lbs towing capacity and Mi-Drive with Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes.
The 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus brings Nappa leather-trimmed seats and the 360° View Monitor with See-Through View and Trailer Hitch View. The 3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport and top-of-the-line 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus both feature the higher-output engine, with the Premium Plus adding second-row captain's chairs with a center console and ventilated front and second-row seats.
In a 2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander third-row seating SUV comparison of trim variety, the CX-90 gives shoppers flexibility to find the right balance of features without overpaying for what they don't need.
Get Your Mazda CX-90 at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon
When you put the 2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander third-row seating SUV comparison to the test, the CX-90 makes a compelling case with its Inline 6 turbocharged engine, premium interior, proactive AWD system, and impressive safety credentials. It's a three-row SUV that genuinely rewards the driver while still taking care of everyone along for the ride.Â
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For families near Shiloh, Illinois, who are ready to explore everything the CX-90 has to offer, visit Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon to browse available inventory, explore trim options, and schedule a test drive.Â