Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a New 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA
If you have been waiting for a richly appointed three-row SUV that blends poised performance with family-first practicality, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA should be at the top of your list. Crafted to bring harmony to every drive, Mazda’s flagship SUV offers standard i-Activ AWD®, a refined e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine, and an available plug-in hybrid powertrain for flexible daily commuting. From serene coastal drives to weekend runs between Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea, this SUV is designed to elevate each mile with quiet confidence, premium craftsmanship, and advanced technology that feels seamlessly integrated into your life.
At Cardinale Mazda, we help shoppers choose the configuration that fits just right, from seating for up to eight to available 2nd-row captain’s chairs, and from luxurious Nappa leather to thoughtful power outlets and USB-C ports for every row. Below, you will find a comprehensive, locally focused guide that answers your biggest questions, highlights the features that matter most, and explains why our team is your trusted resource when it is time to step into your next Mazda SUV near Monterey, CA.
2026 Mazda CX-90 Overview
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is the brand’s most sophisticated three-row SUV to date, designed to deliver “Drive in Harmony” for families and enthusiasts alike. Its e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine is paired with a smooth SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-Speed Automatic Transmission and standard i-Activ AWD®, giving you assured traction with crisp, responsive control. On select models, the Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV adds an electric-only range ideal for short trips while retaining the freedom of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. Inside, the cabin offers space for up to eight, with upscale materials, available Bose® premium audio, and convenient power and USB-C access points that extend through the second and third rows.
Technology is thoughtful and unobtrusive, led by Mazda Connect™ with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, the MyMazda App with Mazda Connected Services (including Remote Engine Start), and driver-assist aids from the i-Activsense® suite. Available 360° View Monitor with See-through View and Trailer Hitch View, plus features such as Front Cross Traffic Alert and Brake, help the CX-90 feel as effortless to maneuver as it is comfortable to enjoy. Sophisticated KODO design, available Piano Black accents, and paint options like Rhodium White Premium, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, and Jet Black Mica complete a striking presence on any road.
5 Key Reasons the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Stands Out near Monterey, CA
- Standard i-Activ AWD®: Predictive, always-engaged all-wheel drive monitors road inputs and helps distribute torque for confident control on wet coastal highways or gravel pullouts.
- Refined powertrains: The e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine delivers smooth, confident acceleration, while the available PHEV offers an electric-only range for short trips.
- Premium three-row comfort: Seating for up to eight, available 2nd-row captain’s chairs, and upscale materials create a quiet, harmonious space for everyone on board.
- Advanced safety and visibility: i-Activsense® features like Smart Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring are complemented by the available 360° View Monitor with See-through View.
- Thoughtful connectivity: Mazda Connect™, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Mazda Connected Services keep you in sync with your world, plus power outlets for every row.
From its longitudinal powertrain layout and poised handling to meticulously crafted interior details, the CX-90 was built to be more than transportation. It is a family-first flagship that feels nimble, serene, and secure. Whether you choose the Inline 6 or the Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV, you benefit from standard i-Activ AWD®, balanced dynamics, and a refined driving character that makes daily errands near Monterey, CA feel special.
Key Features of the 2026 Mazda CX-90
e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged Engine
The 2026 CX-90’s e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine anchors the lineup with a smooth, linear character befitting a premium three-row SUV. Tuned for confident passing power and calm long-distance cruising, the Inline 6 pairs with a SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-Speed Automatic Transmission with manual-shift mode to deliver refined response without busy shifting. Turbo and Turbo S models differ in output, with Turbo S calibrated to higher horsepower and torque when using recommended premium fuel. Mazda’s design philosophy is evident as soon as you roll on the throttle—power builds progressively, the steering feels measured and stable, and brake modulation is natural. Kinematic Posture Control helps tighten handling in corners, subtly applying brake force to improve body movement and inspire confidence when the road curves along the coast. The result is an impressive blend of composure and engagement that makes every drive feel intentional.
i-Activ AWD® with Mi-Drive
All CX-90 models include standard i-Activ AWD®, a proactive, always-engaged system that monitors vehicle dynamics in real time to manage torque distribution before slip occurs. This goes beyond basic reactive systems, giving you a planted, predictable feel across changing surfaces. Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) lets you tailor the experience with modes like Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing. Select Off-Road for confidence on unpaved pullouts or dirt drives to trailheads, or activate Sport to sharpen throttle and shifting response on winding roads. When properly equipped, the CX-90 can tow from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, and the drivetrain’s tuning—with i-Activ AWD® and Mi-Drive—supports balanced control whether you are merging onto Highway 1 or guiding a small boat to the ramp.
Premium Cabin for 7 or 8 with Quiet, Harmonious Design
Inside, the CX-90 is crafted for calm. The three-row layout supports either eight-passenger seating with a 2nd-row bench or seven-passenger seating with available 2nd-row captain’s chairs. The 60/40-split 3rd row is standard, making it easy to adapt for passengers or cargo. Material quality and attention to detail elevate the experience—available Nappa leather-trimmed seats, tasteful stitching, and meticulously finished trim come together to create a sanctuary-like cabin. The available panoramic moonroof brings in natural light, while the available Bose® premium audio system provides immersive sound for every row. Even third-row passengers can access available USB-C charging, and thoughtful power outlets up front keep essentials topped up. With 14.9 cu ft of cargo volume behind the 3rd row and up to 74.2 cu ft with the 2nd and 3rd rows folded, the CX-90 is equipped for daily life and weekend escapes alike.
i-Activsense® Safety Suite and 360° View Monitor with See-through View
Confidence is fundamental to the CX-90’s design. Its i-Activsense® suite includes features such as Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane-keep Assist, and Road Keep Assist, with available Front Cross Traffic Alert and Brake, Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist, Cruising & Traffic Support, Vehicle Exit Warning, and Driver Monitoring. The available 360° View Monitor with See-through View and Trailer Hitch View adds clear, enhanced visibility around the vehicle, especially helpful in tight lots or when lining up a trailer. With the 2026 Mazda CX-90 recognized as part of a lineup that has earned a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award and the prior model year recognized with a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA, you and your passengers can enjoy a reassuring layer of protection in a wide range of driving situations.
Mazda Connect™, MyMazda App, and Everyday Convenience
Technology in the CX-90 is designed to simplify daily life and keep you connected. Mazda Connect™ supports Apple CarPlay® integration for your iPhone® and Android Auto™ integration, while Bluetooth® helps you manage hands-free calls and audio. With Mazda Connected Services and the MyMazda App, you can remotely start the engine, lock or unlock the doors, and check vehicle status—and an in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot adds seamless connectivity on the go. The interface prioritizes clarity and minimal distraction, and thoughtful details like available Trailer Hitch View within the 360° display help with real-world tasks. From locating your vehicle to checking service reminders, these systems are built to integrate meaningfully into your routine, reducing friction and adding convenience you will appreciate every day.
5 Buying Considerations Before You Choose Your Mazda CX-90
- Seating plan: Decide between 8-passenger capability with a 2nd-row bench or 7-passenger comfort with available captain’s chairs.
- Powertrain choice: Select the e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine or consider the Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV for short electric-only trips.
- Safety visibility: Add available 360° View Monitor with See-through View and Trailer Hitch View for daily maneuvering ease.
- Towing needs: Confirm expected trailer weight and equip the vehicle accordingly, noting the 3,500–5,000-lb range when properly set up.
- Interior priorities: Evaluate upgrades like Nappa leather, Bose® audio, and the panoramic moonroof for your ideal balance of luxury and value.
Clarifying how often you carry a full crew, whether you need captain’s chairs, and how you plan to use the cargo area will make your decision straightforward. If you anticipate towing, consider a trim with available Towing mode in Mi-Drive and the camera views that simplify setup. For the tech-focused, Mazda Connected Services and MyMazda App convenience are a must-have—great for early morning departures near Monterey, CA or when your hands are full after a grocery run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is i-Activ AWD® standard on every 2026 Mazda CX-90?
Yes. All Mazda crossover SUVs, including the CX-90, feature i-Activ AWD® as standard. The system proactively monitors vehicle dynamics data and distributes torque to support confident, predictable handling on wet roads, gravel surfaces, or when conditions change unexpectedly.
How many passengers can the 2026 CX-90 accommodate?
You can choose seating for up to eight passengers with a 2nd-row bench or seven passengers with available 2nd-row captain’s chairs. All CX-90 3.3 Turbo and 3.3 Turbo S models include a standard 60/40-split 3rd-row bench for added flexibility.
Which camera features help with parking and towing?
The available 360° View Monitor with See-through View provides enhanced visibility around the vehicle, including areas usually obstructed from sight. Trailer Hitch View is also available, helping you align a trailer more easily when connecting or maneuvering.
What are the towing and cargo capabilities?
When properly equipped, the CX-90 can tow between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds. Cargo volume measures 14.9 cu ft with all seats upright and up to 74.2 cu ft with the 2nd and 3rd rows folded, giving you space for daily gear or weekend adventure essentials.
Step-by-Step Tips for Test Driving the 2026 Mazda CX-90
- Confirm seating fit: If you need space for seven or eight, bring family members and test both the bench and available captain’s chairs to judge comfort and access.
- Explore drive modes: Ask to sample Normal and Sport in Mi-Drive, and if applicable, Off-Road and Towing modes to feel the difference in response and control.
- Check visibility tech: Try the available 360° View Monitor with See-through View and Trailer Hitch View in a parking scenario to experience the camera clarity.
- Assess quietness: Drive on a variety of surfaces to evaluate cabin serenity, Bose® audio quality (if equipped), and overall ride composure.
- Test connectivity: Pair your phone with Mazda Connect™, confirm Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ functionality, and explore the MyMazda App features.
Arrive with a plan—know your seating preference, typical cargo load, and any towing goals. Ask a product specialist to demonstrate i-Activsense® features like Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Lane-keep Assist during the drive. If you are shopping the 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA, we will help you compare trims side by side so you can feel the differences in seating, tech, and interior materials in real time.
Why Buy from Cardinale Mazda near Monterey, CA?
- Local expertise: Our team lives and drives here, so we tailor recommendations for coastal routes, weekend getaways, and daily commuting patterns.
- The CardinaleWay: We build relationships on transparency and care, focusing on long-term satisfaction rather than one-time transactions.
- Mazda-trained service: Our service center uses Genuine Mazda Parts, precision diagnostics, and is now open Saturdays for added convenience.
- Streamlined financing: We work with a wide range of lenders to help match your budget and timeline, including secure online pre-approval options.
- Convenient ownership tools: From the MyMazda App to appointment scheduling and service history tracking, we simplify maintenance for years to come.
Cardinale Mazda is committed to helping you find the right configuration, ensure your test drive answers your questions, and provide a long-term service partner you can trust. Our product specialists will walk you through trims, options, and i-Activsense® features so you can drive away with total confidence.
Next Steps
- Schedule a test drive: Set up time to experience the seating, camera systems, and Mi-Drive modes firsthand.
- Compare trims: Review interior packages, captain’s chairs availability, and enhanced safety visibility options.
- Evaluate towing setup: If you plan to tow, confirm hardware, Towing mode in Mi-Drive, and Trailer Hitch View availability.
- Pre-approve financing: Use our secure online application to save time and clarify your budget.
- Plan service support: Explore our Genuine Mazda Parts, Saturday service availability, and maintenance scheduling tools.
When you are ready, our team will align configurations with your family’s needs and your daily routine. If you are considering a 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA, we invite you to bring your questions, compare models side by side, and let our specialists help you finalize the perfect fit.
Request More Info About the 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA
We are here to ensure you feel fully informed and confident before you choose your 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Monterey, CA. Whether you are prioritizing an 8-passenger layout, want the ease of the available 360° View Monitor with See-through View, or are weighing the merits of the Inline 6 versus the plug-in hybrid powertrain, our product specialists will guide you with clear, practical answers. Reach out to Cardinale Mazda to request a personalized walkaround, set up a focused test drive, or explore accessories like Roof Rack Crossbars and a Trailer Hitch that match your lifestyle. From the CardinaleWay approach to Mazda-trained service with Genuine Mazda Parts, we aim to be your trusted resource long after delivery. Tell us how you drive, where you go, and who rides with you—we will help you build a CX-90 that brings harmony to every mile.