Mazda is making an interesting change to its SUV lineup for 2027, officially discontinuing the CX-70 and replacing it with something that should sound awfully familiar: a two-row version of the CX-90. Yes, you read that correctly. After introducing the CX-70 as a separate model despite it being essentially a CX-90 without a third row, Mazda has decided to bring everything under one nameplate. The 2027 Mazda CX-90 will now be offered in both two-row and three-row configurations, simplifying the lineup while introducing a handful of improvements to ride comfort, technology, and available equipment.
We actually laughed a little when we heard about Mazda making this move, mostly because the CX-70 never really made much sense to us in the first place. When Mazda originally revealed the CX-70, many expected a slightly smaller, sportier alternative to the three-row CX-90. Instead, we got virtually the exact same SUV, with the same exterior dimensions, platform, powertrains, and overall design, just minus the third-row seats and with some minor styling differences. It always seemed strange to give what was essentially a seating configuration its own model name. Now, Mazda is doing what probably should have been done from the beginning, offering buyers the choice of two or three rows in a single SUV.
For 2027, the two-row CX-90 will be available exclusively in the 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport and 3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport trims. The standard Turbo Premium Sport with two rows starts at $48,525, while the three-row version costs $49,725. Stepping up to the more powerful Turbo S Premium Sport brings pricing to $55,185 for the two-row model and $56,385 with three rows. Those prices include the $1,645 destination charge. Buyers choosing the two-row configuration also get one-touch folding second-row seats for easier access to the expanded cargo area. Unfortunately, Mazda isn’t offering the two-row layout with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which limits some of the flexibility previously available with the CX-70.
Thankfully, Mazda isn’t messing with the powertrains that already make the CX-90 appealing. The standard turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six continues to produce 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline, while the more powerful Turbo S delivers up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft on premium fuel. Both use a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid remains available in three-row configurations, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery to produce 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. It also provides up to 27 miles of electric-only driving range.
Beyond the seating changes, the 2027 CX-90 receives some welcome refinements. Mazda has revised the rear suspension crossmember and updated the rear suspension bushings to improve ride comfort, particularly over rough pavement. That’s a worthwhile improvement considering the CX-90 has occasionally been criticized for its relatively firm ride. Plug-in hybrid models also receive additional insulation around the electric drive motor to reduce noise at lower speeds. Mazda is adding new exterior colors, including Navy Blue Mica and Aero Gray Metallic, while the two-row models can also be ordered in Melting Copper Metallic and Zircon Sand Metallic.
Technology and equipment updates are relatively modest but appreciated. The 3.3 Turbo Preferred now includes standard roof rails, while Premium Sport models gain Alexa Built-In for enhanced voice commands. Higher-end Premium Plus trims receive Mazda Online Navigation with over-the-air updates as standard equipment. Depending on the trim, buyers can enjoy features such as a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, a Bose premium audio system, and Mazda’s 360-degree View Monitor. The overall cabin remains one of the more upscale offerings in the mainstream midsize SUV segment, continuing Mazda’s push toward a more premium driving experience.
The 2027 Mazda CX-90 lineup starts at $41,345 for the entry-level 3.3 Turbo Select, while the range-topping Turbo S Premium Plus reaches $59,615. Plug-in hybrid models begin at $52,340 and climb to $60,345 for the Premium Plus, with all prices including destination. Ultimately, we think Mazda is making the right decision by eliminating unnecessary overlap between the CX-70 and CX-90. There’s nothing wrong with offering a large SUV with either two or three rows, but creating an entirely separate model for essentially the same vehicle was always a questionable strategy. Now that Mazda has corrected course, buyers should have an easier time understanding the lineup, and dealerships won’t have to explain why two nearly identical SUVs were wearing different badges. Sometimes simplifying things really is the smartest move.
Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a car enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that go beyond the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design with his professional precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the site both sharp and forward-thinking.
