CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa - Does the 2026 Mazda CX-90 seat 7 or 8 passengers for families around Scottsdale, AZ?
Choosing between a 7- or 8-passenger layout is one of the most important decisions when you are shopping for a 2026 Mazda CX-90. The good news is that Mazda designed both configurations to feel natural in daily life, while preserving the refined ride and quiet cabin families expect. If you are weighing school-day shuttles, weekend errands, and road trips, the right seating choice can make every mile smoother.
The CX-90 gives you two smart options: an 8-passenger configuration with a 2nd-row bench, or a 7-passenger arrangement with available 2nd-row captain’s chairs. Both include a 60/40 split 3-person 3rd-row bench seat. The 8-passenger setup maximizes headcount without feeling cramped, thanks to a wide door opening and thoughtful step-in height. The 7-passenger configuration offers an easy pass-through to the 3rd row, which is especially convenient for frequent child-seat use. On select models, passengers in the 2nd and 3rd rows can access USB-C charging outlets, keeping devices topped up without cluttering the cabin with cords.
Beyond seating, space flexibility matters. With all seats upright, CX-90 3.3 Turbo and 3.3 Turbo S models provide 14.9 cu ft of cargo volume for groceries or backpacks. Fold the 2nd and 3rd rows and you open up to 74.2 cu ft—room for strollers, sports gear, or a big-box run. If your weekends include towing, the available Towing mode in Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) adds confidence when properly equipped with a tow hitch, and Trailer Hitch View in the available 360° View Monitor helps line up your trailer more easily in tight spaces.
Passenger comfort is not an afterthought. The available panoramic moonroof brightens all three rows with natural light, while premium materials and an available Bose® sound system create a calm environment that encourages conversation and reduces travel fatigue. Standard i-Activ AWD® contributes to stability on the freeway and around town, while the turbocharged e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 keeps acceleration smooth and satisfying when merging or passing—especially with a full cabin.
Safety and visibility features help you manage the realities of family driving. i-Activsense® includes technologies such as Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Lane-keep Assist, with additional available features like Front Cross Traffic Alert and Brake, Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist, and Driver Monitoring. The available 360° View Monitor with See-through View can display areas that would otherwise be obstructed, making parking-lot maneuvers and curbside loading less stressful.
If you are unsure which seating layout is right for you, test both on the same day. Install your car seats, try the 3rd-row access in each setup, and evaluate how often you need seats seven and eight versus a clear center aisle. Pay attention to how your passengers feel about legroom and charging access, especially for the 2nd and 3rd rows on select models. A few minutes of real-world testing often makes the best choice obvious.
Families comparing three-row SUVs appreciate that the 2026 Mazda CX-90 balances headcount, comfort, and drivability without compromise. It is a driver’s SUV that does not forget about the people in rows two and three. CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa can stage both configurations so you can see how each fits your family’s routine in one visit, serving Scottsdale, Apache Junction, and Chandler with knowledgeable guidance and a relaxed pace.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the 8-passenger CX-90 still allow easy 3rd-row access?
Yes. The wide rear doors and 60/40 split 2nd-row bench help make entry practical. If you need a clear center aisle, the 7-passenger layout with available captain’s chairs offers an even simpler path to the 3rd row.
Are there charging ports for the 3rd row?
On select models, USB-C charging outlets are available for passengers in the 2nd and 3rd rows, so everyone can keep devices powered without sharing cords across the cabin.
Can the CX-90 handle towing and a full cabin?
When properly equipped with a tow hitch, the CX-90 Inline 6 offers a towing range from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. Mi-Drive includes an available Towing mode, and Trailer Hitch View in the available 360° View Monitor helps you align with confidence.
Is AWD standard for family trips in mixed weather?
Yes. i-Activ AWD® is standard on every CX-90 and proactively manages torque distribution to help maintain stability and traction across changing conditions.