2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2026 Honda Pilotin Cincinnati, OH
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 and 2026 Honda Pilot give Cincinnati-area families two three-row SUV choices with different approaches to performance, passenger space, technology, and utility. The CX-90 offers a 3.3L turbocharged inline-six with 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, available Turbo S power with up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft, plus a plug-in hybrid producing up to 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. The Pilot uses a 3.5L V6 producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
For drivers in Cincinnati, Hamilton, Fairfield, West Chester, Mason, and surrounding communities, Jake Sweeney Mazda helps shoppers compare the CX-90 according to powertrain selection, towing, seating, cargo capacity, technology, and everyday family use.
2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2026 Honda Pilot Key Highlights
| Feature | 2026 Mazda CX-90 | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 3.3L Turbo Inline 6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Standard Engine Output | 280 hp / 332 lb-ft | 285 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Available High-Output Engine | 3.3L Turbo S Inline 6 | Not available |
| Maximum Gas Engine Output | 340 hp / 369 lb-ft | 285 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Available Electrified Powertrain | 2.5L PHEV | Not available |
| Available PHEV Output | 323 hp / 369 lb-ft | Not available |
| Maximum Available Towing | 5,000 lbs. | 5,000 lbs. |
| Seating | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | i-Activ AWD | 2WD or AWD |
Specifications vary by trim, powertrain, seating configuration, drivetrain, and equipment.
2026 Mazda CX-90 Provides Multiple Powertrain Choices
The CX-90 gives Cincinnati drivers several ways to configure a three-row SUV. The standard 3.3L Turbo Inline 6 produces 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque using regular 87-octane fuel. Available Turbo S models increase output to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft with recommended premium fuel.
2026 Mazda CX-90 Performance Highlights
- 3.3L Turbo Inline 6
- 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque
- Available Turbo S with up to 340 horsepower
- Available PHEV with up to 323 horsepower
- Standard i-Activ AWD
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 5,000 pounds of available towing on applicable Turbo models
- PHEV offers up to 26 miles of electric range
2026 Honda Pilot Performance Highlights
- 3.5L V6
- 285 horsepower
- 262 lb-ft of torque
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available AWD
- Up to 5,000 pounds of available towing with AWD
- Available TrailSport trim
- Available Trail, Sand, Snow, Sport, Tow, and other drive modes depending on trim
2026 Mazda CX-90 Creates Flexible Space for Passengers and Cargo
The CX-90 is available with seating for up to eight, while certain configurations use second-row captain's chairs. Depending on the third-row arrangement, Mazda lists up to 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 74.2 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
2026 Mazda CX-90 Utility Highlights
- Seating for up to eight
- Available second-row captain's chairs
- Up to 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row
- Up to 74.2 cubic feet with second and third rows folded
- Available hands-free rear power liftgate
- Available towing capability up to 5,000 pounds
- Standard i-Activ AWD
2026 Honda Pilot Utility Highlights
- Seating for up to eight
- Available removable second-row center seat
- Up to 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row on applicable configurations
- Up to 113.7 cubic feet behind the first row on applicable configurations
- One-touch second-row access
- Available hands-free power tailgate
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing with AWD
2026 Mazda CX-90 Connects Technology With Driver-Focused Design
The CX-90 combines Mazda Connect technology with available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch center display on applicable trims, and available Bose audio. Higher trims can add a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Active Driving Display, 360° View Monitor, and additional i-Activsense driver-assistance technology.
2026 Mazda CX-90 Technology Highlights
- Mazda Connect infotainment
- Available 12.3-inch center display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on applicable trims
- Available wireless phone charging
- Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Available Bose 12-speaker audio
- Available 360° View Monitor
- i-Activsense safety technology
2026 Honda Pilot Technology Highlights
- Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Standard 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Google built-in
- Available wireless phone charging
- Available Bose 12-speaker audio
- Available Head-Up Display
- Honda Sensing safety technology
What Do Automotive Experts Say About the 2026 Mazda CX-90?
Car and Driver's 2026 CX-90 review highlights the SUV's cabin, efficiency, and handling as notable strengths.
"Interior's premium look and feel, commendable fuel economy for its size, nimble handling."
Source: Car and Driver: 2026 Mazda CX-90 ReviewWhat Are 2026 Mazda CX-90 Owners Saying?
A 2026 Mazda CX-90 Premium Sport owner writing on Cars.com described the SUV's driving characteristics and comfort after comparing it with other vehicles in the segment.
"I tested everything in the segment and out of them all preferred it based on my personal wants and needs."
Source: Cars.com: 2026 Mazda CX-90 Consumer ReviewsFrequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Honda Pilot
How much horsepower does the standard 2026 Mazda CX-90 produce?
How much horsepower does the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S produce?
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-90 have a plug-in hybrid option?
How much can the 2026 Mazda CX-90 tow?
How many passengers can the CX-90 carry?
Where can Cincinnati-area drivers explore the 2026 Mazda CX-90?
We Help Cincinnati Drivers Compare the 2026 Mazda CX-90
At Jake Sweeney Mazda, we help Cincinnati-area drivers compare CX-90 configurations according to seating needs, powertrain preferences, towing requirements, cargo space, technology, and everyday driving.
Our Mazda dealership serves Cincinnati, Hamilton, Fairfield, West Chester, Mason, and surrounding communities. Drivers can explore available CX-90 models, arrange a test drive, discuss financing and trade-in options, and access Mazda service and parts support.
