For U.S. families, the Mazda CX-9 is now a used-SUV choice: Mazda ended U.S. CX-9 production after the 2023 model year. The CX-90 replaced it beginning with model year 2024 and is available in newer model years, including Mazda’s 2026 Inline 6 lineup. The right comparison is therefore a specific used CX-9 against a specific CX-90 model year and trim—not two interchangeable nameplates.
Mazda CX-9 vs. CX-90: which is better for a family?
Neither is automatically the better family SUV. A CX-9 may suit a buyer focused on used inventory, while the CX-90 offers newer model years and multiple seating configurations. The best fit depends on the actual vehicle’s condition and equipment, how many people you need to carry, and whether you need the CX-90’s available towing capacity.
Mazda announced that the CX-9 would be discontinued in the U.S. after the 2023 model year (Mazda’s June 30, 2023 announcement). The CX-90 debuted as a 2024 model; Mazda’s current product page covers the 2026 CX-90 Inline 6 lineup. That makes model year and trim essential context when comparing specifications or prices.
At a glance
| Family consideration | Mazda CX-9 | Mazda CX-90 |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. model-year context | Final model year: 2023; shop used examples. | First model year: 2024; Mazda’s current product page covers 2026 Inline 6 models. |
| Seating | The 2023 Touring release describes second-row captain’s chairs and six-passenger seating; layouts vary by trim and year. | 2026 configurations offer seating for seven or eight, depending on second-row captain’s chairs or bench. |
| Cargo | Comparable final-year, trim-specific figures are not established in the sources cited here. | Mazda lists configuration-dependent figures for cited 2026 configurations: 14.9 cu. ft. behind row three, 40.0 cu. ft. behind row two, and 74.2 cu. ft. maximum. |
| Towing | A final-year CX-9 figure is not established in the sources cited here. | Properly equipped Inline 6 models can reach up to 5,000 lb, subject to trim, equipment, and load deductions. |
Sources: Mazda’s 2023 CX-9 pricing and packaging, Mazda’s 2026 CX-90 product page, and Mazda’s 2026 CX-90 pricing and packaging. Figures are not a complete, matched comparison of every CX-9 and CX-90 trim.
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Is the Mazda CX-9 discontinued?
Yes, in the U.S. Mazda said it would discontinue the CX-9 following the 2023 model year. A CX-9 shopper is looking at used vehicles, so mileage, condition, maintenance records, and the specific trim matter alongside the model name.
The CX-90 began with model year 2024. Newer CX-90s and used examples may differ in powertrain, features, and specifications, so do not apply a figure from one year or trim to another.
How many people can a Mazda CX-90 seat?
Mazda lists seven- or eight-passenger seating for the cited 2026 CX-90 configurations. The difference is the second row: captain’s chairs provide seven-seat capacity, while a bench configuration allows seating for eight. Check the listing or vehicle details for the actual configuration.
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Seat count alone does not tell you whether a particular child-seat arrangement will work or how easy it is to reach the third row. Confirm the seat layout and test the access and child-seat setup in the exact vehicle you are considering.
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Mazda’s 2026 CX-90 family page lists 14.9 cu. ft. behind the third row for cited configurations. It also lists 40.0 cu. ft. behind the second row and 74.2 cu. ft. maximum. These are Mazda-stated figures, and the applicable configuration can vary; verify the specification for the exact trim and powertrain.
When comparing against a CX-9, use the same cargo measurement convention and compare vehicles in the same seating configuration. A maximum figure with seats folded does not show how much room is available with all three rows in use.
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How do the CX-9 and CX-90 powertrains compare?
The available figures here do not establish a complete, matched powertrain comparison between the final-year CX-9 and a current CX-90. Mazda’s 2024 launch material described 280 hp for the standard 3.3 Turbo on regular fuel and up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft for Turbo S on recommended premium fuel. Those are launch-year figures, not specifications for every CX-90 or a substitute for checking the exact model year and trim.
Mazda’s 2026 product and pricing materials cover Inline 6 Turbo and higher-output Turbo S trims. The 2024 launch material also documented a plug-in hybrid CX-90; do not apply that powertrain’s specifications to a 2026 Inline 6 comparison.
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How much can a CX-90 tow?
Mazda states that properly equipped CX-90 Inline 6 models can tow up to 5,000 lb, but that maximum depends on trim and required towing equipment. It is not a universal rating for every CX-90. Consult the exact vehicle’s owner’s manual and towing load table, and account for passengers, cargo, hitch equipment, and optional equipment.
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Mazda’s owner’s manual cautions: “Towing a trailer will affect handling, braking, durability, performance, and economy.” Read the 2025 CX-90 owner’s manual towing section and use the load limits for the vehicle you own or are considering.
What should families know about CX-90 safety awards?
Mazda announced that the 2024 CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV earned the 2023 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. That award statement is specific to those named 2024 models and the 2023 award; it does not establish the award status of later model years or provide a direct CX-9 comparison. Compare independent safety ratings by exact model year and test protocol.
See Mazda’s award announcement for the scope of its statement.
Quick Recap
How to choose between a used CX-9 and a CX-90
- Set the model-year and condition comparison. Treat the CX-9 as a used-vehicle purchase and compare its mileage, condition, and service history with the specific CX-90 year and trim.
- Confirm the seating layout. Check whether the CX-90 has second-row captain’s chairs or a bench, then verify passenger and child-seat needs in the actual vehicle.
- Check cargo with your usual seats in use. Compare behind-third-row capacity rather than relying only on maximum folded cargo volume.
- Match specifications to the vehicle. Verify powertrain, towing equipment, and any other requirement against the exact trim’s official specifications and owner’s manual.
- Compare safety information by year. Use ratings and awards that apply to the specific model year rather than carrying a dated award forward.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
