2026 Volvo XC90 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-90: In-Depth Three-Row SUV Comparison
The Volvo XC90: A Brief Overview
- The Volvo XC90 is a luxury three-row SUV with up to seven seats.
- Its midsize length of 195 inches allows for excellent maneuverability.
- It has more third-row legroom than its larger rival.
- Enjoy Scandinavian design throughout, like a crystal gear selector knob and genuine brown ash wood accents.
The Mazda CX-90: A Brief Overview
- The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row SUV with up to eight seats.
- Its full-size length of 201.6 inches is bulkier than similar SUVs, making parking more difficult.
- Although longer than the Volvo XC90, the Mazda CX-90 has less third-row legroom.
- The Mazda CX-90 interior can be luxurious, but only if you pay extra – and with fewer features than you can find in the Volvo XC90.
Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90: The Luxury SUV You Deserve
We want it to be simple to search for the perfect luxury SUV, so our Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 comparison is clear-cut. With more maximum horsepower, stronger standard towing capacity, and an enticing feature lineup, the Volvo SUV offers customizable versatility to stay firmly ahead. Our team at Willis Volvo Cars is confident that the Volvo XC90 has the premium specifications and perks your family needs, so let's explore the two models side by side to see how we arrived at that conclusion.
Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Specs
The Mazda SUV has a small advantage with standard engine specs. That edge vanishes when you consider the PHEV variants. The Volvo XC90 PHEV delivers 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, far surpassing the strongest Mazda CX-90 powertrain (340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque) – which is, surprisingly, in the gas-powered upper trims and not the plug-in hybrid.
The Mazda also has a standard towing capacity of just 3,500 pounds,1 requiring you to invest in higher trim levels to access the 5,000-pound maximum found in the Volvo SUV across all its models.1,2
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| Volvo XC90 | Mazda CX-90 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
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| Horsepower |
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| Torque |
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| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 22 / 27 / 243 | 23 / 28 / 254 |
| EPA-Est. PHEV MPG (Comb) | 275 | 264 |
| EPA-Est. PHEV MPGe (Comb) | 586 | 567 |
| PHEV All-Electric Range | 32 mi6 | 26 mi8 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs2 | 3,500 - 5,000 lbs1 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 - 7 | 7 - 8 |
| Length | 195 in | 201.6 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | 79.1 in | 77.6 in |
| Height | 69.9 in | 68.3 - 68.7 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 38.9 / 38.5 / 36.3 in | 39.7 / 39.3 / 36.9 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 40.9 / 37 / 31.9 in9 | 41.7 / 39.4 / 30.4 in |
Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Fuel Economy
The Mazda SUV has a tiny advantage in MPG ratings – until you see the PHEV models. There, the advantage swaps in favor of the Volvo XC90, which can drive up to 32 miles on all-electric power6 compared to just 26 miles for the Mazda CX-90.8
Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Size
Now, take a look at size metrics. The new Volvo XC90 is 195 inches long but has extra width and height to improve passenger spaciousness. The Mazda CX-90 does have extra legroom in both front and rear rows, but it loses in a shocking way: third-row space. The Mazda only offers 30.4 inches of legroom for its final row, while the Volvo XC90 provides 31.9 inches – a fairly significant amount in an area where your passengers are the most likely to be cramped.
Considering the Volvo SUV is also the smaller of the two, this extra space shows a dedicated focus on your entire family's comfort. The Volvo model also has substantially more maximum cargo space, at 85.7 cubic feet, compared to the Mazda's 75.2 cubic feet.
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Interior Design
Inside these cabins, you'll notice that size isn't the sole difference. The Mazda CX-90 is attractive but with a more generic design found in many SUVs. The Volvo XC90 is unique – you get access to standard genuine wood decor, a crystal gear selector by Orrefors®, beautiful headliners, and a simple yet effective dashboard that provides plenty of screen space without focusing entirely on touchscreens.
Mazda CX-90 vs. Volvo XC90 Technology & Infotainment
That interior advantage continues into technology. The Mazda has distinct edges, such as early access to ventilated seating. Still, it also has some weaknesses, such as its 7-inch instrument display, a 10.25-inch central display as standard, and a three-zone climate system. The Volvo XC90 gives you an 11.2-inch central console by default, a four-zone climate control system, and a huge Google Built-In Suite, including Google Play Store™, Google Assistant™, and Google Maps™ navigation services. The Mazda employs Alexa® Built-In: passable, but not comprehensive. For the Mazda SUV to stand a chance, it would need to add on multiple trim levels to match the upscale amenities the Volvo XC90 offers.
Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Safety & Driver Assistance
While both are exceptionally safe, the Volvo XC90 takes steps to further your confidence at the base level, rather than waiting for higher trim levels. For example, starting with the baseline Volvo XC90 Core, you have Volvo Pilot Assist, an intuitive program that can follow other vehicles at a safe distance, even on city streets. Though the Mazda can be upgraded to include automated driver aids like Blind Assist, they never quite match the versatility and ease of access of the comprehensive Pilot Assist.
See the Winner of the Volvo XC90 vs. Mazda CX-90 Comparison at Willis Volvo Cars
The Mazda CX-90 does provide more available seating capacity, but the Volvo XC90 brings more premium-grade technology to the forefront, alongside more luxury amenities and more impressive performance options. Like with all new Volvo vehicles, your Volvo SUV will turn your garage into a high-end launching bay.
Our current Volvo XC90 offers are sure to seal the deal, helping you explore the high-end luxury of Volvo SUVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2026 Volvo XC90 compare to the Mazda CX-90 for safety?
Both the Volvo XC90 and Mazda CX-90 are known for their safety lineups, but in two distinct ways. While the Mazda CX-90 relies only on comprehensive sensing technology, the Volvo XC90 has that and standard pseudo-autonomous driving software like Pilot Assist, which reduces fatigue by guiding you on highways and in cities.
Which SUV has a more refined interior, the 2026 Volvo XC90 or the 2026 Mazda CX-90?
The Mazda CX-90 is comfortable, but the interior of the Volvo XC90 is in another league. The Volvo XC90 starts with genuine wood inlays, a 12.3-inch instrument display, incredible luxuries like an Orrefors® crystal gear selector, and quilted Nordico upholstery. Meanwhile, the Mazda SUV has a 7-inch instrument cluster and requires upgrades for genuine wood.
How do the 2026 Volvo XC90 and Mazda CX-90 compare in technology and infotainment?
Even though the Mazda CX-90 is technologically competent, the 2026 Volvo XC90 takes the extra step to ensure your tech needs are met. For example, the Volvo XC90 provides 23.5 total inches of screen space (compared to 17.25 inches with the standard Mazda CX-90) and has an available 19-speaker sound system (12-speaker is the maximum in the Mazda SUV).
Featured Customer Review for Volvo XC90
Cynthia Thorland
04/23/25
The team did a really nice job of orienting me to my new Volvo XC90. They were very patient and thorough. One of the best experiences I have had purchasing a new vehicle.
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1Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
2When properly equipped.
3EPA estimated range is 22 MPG city/27 MPG highway/24 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
4EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
5EPA estimated range is 27 MPG combined (T8 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
6Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for further information.
7MPGe is the EPA-equivalent of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric vehicles. The EPA-estimated combined MPGe includes both city and highway driving and gasoline and electric energy use. Mileage will vary based on vehicle and battery condition, temperature, driving habits and other factors. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual results will vary.
8EPA-estimated range includes both city and highway driving. EV Range is based on a full charge with electric-only driving. Total Driving Range is based on a full charge and full tank with operation on both electricity and gasoline. Range will vary based on vehicle and battery condition, temperature, driving habits and other factors. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual results will vary.
9Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/volvo/xc90/specs