A new Mazda three-row SUV can be one of two models: the 2026 Mazda CX-90 or the Mazda CX-90 PHEV. The former offers a seven- or eight-seat layout, while the latter features a seven- or six-person configuration. Space and features are similar, with the plug-in hybrid system as the main difference. You can also look for a used Mazda CX-9 as a more affordable Mazda three-row SUV, since Mazda discontinued it following the 2023 model year and replaced it with the Mazda CX-90.
The Jim Ellis Mazda Marietta team would be delighted to introduce you to your next Mazda three-row SUV, whether it's a new or used model. For new three-row Mazda models, we have the 2026 Mazda CX-90 and 2026 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid: sibling SUVs that combine an alluringly sporty attitude with a luxurious family-friendly package. If you're interested in a more affordable Mazda three-row SUV, you may find a 2023 or earlier Mazda CX-9 in our pre-owned inventory; it is the three-row Mazda SUV the Mazda CX-90 replaced, offering a similar spirit overall. Pre-owned Mazda CX-90 models may also be available.
To discover the specs and details about these Mazda SUVs with third‑row seating, read on, then visit our Mazda dealership to experience them in person.
Coming standard with eight seats, the new Mazda CX-90 is spacious inside and beautiful all around. The default seating configuration involves a three-person third-row bench seat, a three-person second-row bench seat, and two bucket seats up front. However, this model can be configured as a Mazda seven-seater SUV thanks to its available second-row captain's chairs (which come standard in the highest trim level).
Knowing it offers seven or eight seats, here are the key internal dimensions of this Mazda three-row SUV:
Along with comfort, you can rest assured that everyone in every seat will be safe: The 2026 Mazda CX-90 earned the highest IIHS award, a Top Safety Pick+.1
The Mazda CX-90 PHEV is the same core Mazda three-row SUV as the Mazda CX-90, but with a few noteworthy differences. It also has an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating,1 but instead of a standard eight-seat layout, it comes standard with a seven-occupant interior courtesy of third-row captain's chairs. However, a six-seat option is available as part of a package, replacing the second-row bench with captain's chairs. More importantly, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid, so it makes more power and gets better gas mileage than the Mazda CX-90.
Things are very similar when you compare the cabin dimensions of these models with third-row seating; the Mazda CX-90 PHEV has this much room inside:
While the Mazda CX-90 and Mazda CX-90 PHEV are your options for a new Mazda three-row SUV, the model they replaced is a way to get similar benefits in a used car: the Mazda CX-9. It was introduced for the 2007 model year and discontinued after the 2023 model year.
By default, the Mazda CX-9 was offered as a Mazda seven-seater SUV due to its two-seat third row. The Mazda CX-9 SUV's available configuration involves a set of two captain's chairs in the second row, resulting in a six-person interior.
Using its final model year of 2023 as a reference, here are the interior specs you can expect:
For the most spacious interior and most modern ride, see our new Mazda inventory or Mazda special offers for a Mazda CX-90 or Mazda CX-90 PHEV; if an affordable-yet-premium used three-row SUV is your preference, browse our pre-owned inventory for a Mazda CX-9 or even a Mazda CX-90.
Both 2026 Mazda three-row SUV models (the Mazda CX-90 and Mazda CX-90 PHEV) come standard with i-Activ AWD® and include Sport and Off-Road drive modes, providing cutting-edge traction control in any weather and exciting driving dynamics no matter where you are. The prior Mazda three-row SUV, the Mazda CX-9, offered standard i-Activ AWD® for its latest 2022 and 2023 model years.
The Mazda CX-90 replaced the Mazda CX-9 as the core three-row SUV for the 2024 model year. As such, the difference is that the Mazda CX-90 is a direct evolution of the Mazda CX-9 with more premium amenities and a more powerful engine. But since Mazda no longer produces the Mazda CX-9, it can be more affordable as a used car.
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is a three-row SUV with a standard eight-seat interior, which allows for you and seven passengers to enjoy the ride. Alternatively, the Mazda CX-90 can be configured with a two-seat second row, making it a seven-occupant SUV. The Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid has a standard seven-seat interior; a six-person layout is available.
Yes, you can get a Mazda CX-90 with second-row captain's chairs, as it is available with this option. This seating layout results in a seven-person interior, while the standard second-row bench seating creates an eight-seat interior. The Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid offers second-row captain's chairs as part of a package.
1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org.
