CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa - What fuel grade should you use in the 2026 Mazda CX-90 near Phoenix, AZ?
Choosing the right fuel for the 2026 Mazda CX-90 matters more than most shoppers realize, especially when you drive in the heat and highway conditions around Phoenix, AZ. At CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa, our goal is to make your selection simple and confidence-inspiring so your CX-90 delivers the refined power, smoothness, and efficiency Mazda engineered into every mile.
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 lineup offers two e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engines—3.3 Turbo and 3.3 Turbo S—plus an available Plug-in Hybrid EV. These powertrains are tuned differently, so Mazda’s fuel recommendations are, too. Knowing which engine you have will help you choose the right octane and get the performance feel you expect, whether you are commuting on the 202 or heading up to cooler elevations for a weekend escape.
Here is the quick answer our team shares with in-market shoppers, followed by helpful context on why Mazda recommends these grades and how your Phoenix driving patterns may influence your choice.
- 3.3 Turbo models: Use regular unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
- 3.3 Turbo S models: For optimal performance, use premium unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher.
- CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid EV: Pair everyday charging with gasoline for longer journeys—refer to your Owner’s Manual for specific fuel guidance.
Why it matters: Turbocharged engines are engineered to balance power and efficiency with precise ignition timing. In the 3.3 Turbo S, premium 91 octane or higher helps the engine deliver its peak responsiveness and refinement, matching the elevated tuning that enthusiasts appreciate. The 3.3 Turbo is calibrated to run on 87 octane or higher, which gives families a great balance of everyday drivability and efficiency without changing fueling habits.
Phoenix factors to consider: High ambient temperatures and highway speeds are part of life here, particularly in summer. While Mazda’s recommendations above are the guideposts, drivers who regularly tow, climb grades, or load up all three rows may prefer to follow the higher-octane recommendation where applicable to keep the Inline 6 feeling smooth and composed. If you are unsure which engine you have, our team will help you verify your trim and engine label in minutes.
How to tell which CX-90 engine you have: Look at your trim name on the window sticker or vehicle documents. Trims labeled 3.3 Turbo use the 3.3L e-SKYACTIV®-G Inline 6 tuned for 87 octane or higher, while 3.3 Turbo S trims are optimized for 91 octane or higher. If you would like us to confirm, contact CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa, and we will identify your powertrain and answer any follow-up questions.
Fuel choice is just one part of the CX-90’s polished driving experience. Every 2026 Mazda CX-90 includes i-Activ AWD® as standard, continuously monitoring road conditions to help the vehicle feel planted across Phoenix’s neighborhood streets and desert highways. Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) lets you tailor response with Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing modes, while the SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-Speed Automatic adds a crisp, direct feel in everyday traffic.
Comfort, awareness, and connectivity round out the package. Available features such as the panoramic moonroof, Bose® audio, and the 360° View Monitor with See-through View make school runs and stadium parking more convenient. The 2026 Mazda CX-90 also benefits from our i-Activsense® suite of safety technologies, and Mazda is proud that the 2026 Mazda CX-90 has earned a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. Visit www.iihs.org to learn more.
Around Phoenix, efficient fueling often goes hand in hand with smart daily habits. If you drive short distances most days, consider the Plug-in Hybrid EV and charge at home to leverage its flexible electric range; for longer trips, the combustion engine joins seamlessly. For gas-only models, follow Mazda’s octane guidance above, keep up with routine maintenance, and let our service team inspect your CX-90 seasonally so it continues to feel effortlessly composed in our climate.
When you visit CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa, we will walk you through the CX-90 lineup, confirm the correct fuel for your specific model, and set up Mazda Connected Services with the MyMazda App so you can monitor vehicle status, start the engine remotely, and more. Our team serves Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and the entire East Valley—count on us for clear answers before and after you take delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will using premium fuel in a 3.3 Turbo (non-S) increase performance?
Mazda calibrates the 3.3 Turbo for regular unleaded 87 octane or higher. You can use a higher octane, but the recommendation is 87 or higher for this engine. The 3.3 Turbo S is the engine tuned to optimize performance with 91 octane or higher.
What are the EPA-estimated MPG figures for the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Inline 6?
For the 2026 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo and Turbo S models, the EPA estimates 23 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. Actual mileage will vary based on driving conditions, load, and climate.
Is i-Activ AWD® standard on the 2026 Mazda CX-90?
Yes. i-Activ AWD® is standard across the Mazda CX-90 lineup. The system proactively monitors vehicle dynamics and helps deliver confident, predictable handling in a wide range of conditions.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-90 offer Remote Engine Start?
Yes. Remote Engine Start is available through Mazda Connected Services once your CX-90 is registered in the MyMazda App. Mazda Connected Services includes a complimentary one-year trial.
How can I confirm whether my CX-90 is a 3.3 Turbo or 3.3 Turbo S?
Check the trim name on your purchase documents or window sticker—trims labeled 3.3 Turbo S indicate the higher-output tuning that recommends 91 octane or higher. If you are unsure, contact CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa, and our team will verify your vehicle details.
Ready to experience the 2026 Mazda CX-90 around Phoenix, AZ? Visit CardinaleWay Mazda Mesa at 6343 E Test Dr, Mesa, AZ 85206, or call Sales at 480-355-4411. Our experts will help you choose the right model, confirm the proper fuel, and set you up for a seamless ownership experience from day one.