2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Review: Why This $61,000 Luxury SUV Let Us Down After 40,000 Miles

The Mazda CX-90 Reality Check: Premium Ambitions Meet Real-World Friction

When the Mazda CX-90 first hit the tarmac, it was hailed as the Japanese BMW—a rear-biased, inline-six-powered disruptor aimed straight at the heart of the luxury three-row segment. Starting at an MSRP of approximately $40,970 for base trims and climbing well over $61,000 for the Turbo S Premium Plus, the stakes were high. However, after a grueling 40,000-mile long-term test, the luster of the flagship has begun to fade, revealing cracks in the ‘premium’ facade that Mazda worked so hard to build.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 continues the brand’s push into the luxury stratosphere, but long-term data suggests that while the hardware is impressive on paper, the execution leaves much to be desired. From transmission gremlins to a ride quality that prioritizes sportiness over family comfort, here is the unfiltered truth about Mazda’s biggest SUV.

Performance and Powertrain: The Inline-Six Soul

At the heart of the CX-90 Turbo S is a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel). For 2026, Mazda has refined the software mapping to mitigate some of the low-speed hesitation reported in earlier models, but the fundamental mechanical quirks remain.

The 8-Speed Transmission Conundrum

The biggest point of contention during our 40,000-mile journey was the in-house developed 8-speed multi-plate clutch automatic transmission. Unlike a traditional torque converter setup, this gearbox often feels indecisive. Owners on various forums and our own test drivers noted ‘clunky’ downshifts and a ‘jerky’ sensation when transitioning between the electric motor and the combustion engine in stop-and-go traffic.

Driving Dynamics: Sporty to a Fault?

Mazda’s DNA is rooted in the MX-5 Miata, and they’ve tried to inject that into a 5,000-pound SUV. The steering is heavy and communicative, which is rare for this class. However, the suspension is stiff. On highway expansion joints, the CX-90 can feel unsettled, a stark contrast to the pillowy ride found in the Toyota Grand Highlander.

Specification	Mazda CX-90 Turbo S (2026)
Engine	3.3L Turbocharged Inline-6
Horsepower	340 hp @ 5,000 rpm
Torque	369 lb-ft
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain	i-Activ AWD
0-60 MPH	5.9 Seconds
Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs

Interior Tech and Design: A Masterclass in Minimalism

Step inside the 2026 CX-90, and you are greeted by one of the finest cabins in the industry. The use of Nappa leather, Kakenui stitching, and real maple wood trim puts most entry-level Audis to shame. For 2026, the infotainment has received a minor update to include wireless smartphone mirroring across all trims as standard.

Infotainment and Ergonomics

Mazda remains committed to the rotary dial controller. While safer for use while driving, it can be frustrating for those used to modern touchscreens. The 12.3-inch display is crisp, but the software feels a generation behind the hyper-responsive systems found in Kia and Hyundai rivals.

Third-Row and Cargo Space

This is where the ‘Masterpiece’ stumbles. Because of the longitudinal engine layout (which pushes the cabin back), the third row is cramped compared to the Honda Pilot. It is best reserved for children, making it a difficult sell for families with three or more teenagers.

Safety Ratings and NCAP Performance

Mazda has not compromised on safety. The 2026 CX-90 maintains its status as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard features include Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and a sophisticated 360-degree View Monitor with ‘See-Through’ technology that helps navigate tight parking spots.

Feature	Availability
Adaptive Cruise Control	Standard
Lane Keep Assist	Standard
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars (Expected)
Airbags	10 Standard

The Comparison: Mazda CX-90 vs. The Rivals

In the 2026 landscape, the CX-90 faces stiff competition from the refined Kia Telluride and the cavernous Toyota Grand Highlander.

Feature	Mazda CX-90 Turbo S	Toyota Grand Highlander	Kia Telluride SX-P
Base Engine	3.3L Inline-6 Turbo	2.4L Turbo I4	3.8L V6
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy)	23/28 MPG	21/28 MPG	20/26 MPG
Max Cargo Space	75.2 cu-ft	97.5 cu-ft	87.0 cu-ft
Starting Price	$40,970	$45,000 (Est)	$37,500 (Est)

Variant-Wise Pricing (Ex-Showroom Est.)

Variant	Estimated Price (USD)
Select	$40,970
Preferred	$44,820
Premium Plus	$50,300
Turbo S Premium	$54,150
Turbo S Premium Plus	$61,250

People Also Ask (FAQ)

1. Is the Mazda CX-90 reliable for long-term ownership? While the engine is robust, early models have seen transmission software glitches and suspension noise.
2. Does the CX-90 require premium fuel? The Turbo S requires premium fuel to reach 340 hp; regular gas drops output to 319 hp.
3. How many passengers can the 2026 CX-90 seat? It offers configurations for 6, 7, or 8 passengers depending on the trim.
4. What is the 0-60 time for the CX-90 Turbo S? It clocks in at approximately 5.9 seconds.
5. Is the CX-90 better than the CX-9? Yes, it offers more power, a better platform, and a more luxurious interior.
6. Does it have a touchscreen? The 12.3-inch screen works as a touchscreen ONLY when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
7. What is the towing capacity? Properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
8. Is there a Hybrid version? Yes, a PHEV version is available with 26 miles of all-electric range.
9. Where is the CX-90 manufactured? It is built at Mazda’s Hofu plant in Japan.
10. Does it have a panoramic sunroof? Yes, it is standard on Preferred and higher trims.

Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S is a polarizing machine. It is the most beautiful SUV in its class, with an interior that rivals vehicles costing $20,000 more. However, our 40,000-mile journey revealed that the driving experience is occasionally marred by a finicky transmission and a ride that may be too stiff for the average suburban parent.

Pros

• Exquisite interior materials and build quality.
• Strong, musical inline-six engine.
• Class-leading safety features and ratings.
• High fuel efficiency for a non-hybrid SUV.

Cons

• Unrefined 8-speed transmission behavior.
• Cramped third-row seating.
• Stiff ride quality on rougher roads.