Mazda CX-90 vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. The larger battery, which was standard on the Limited trim, provided enhanced power, performance, and range, albeit at a higher cost. Prices ranged from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The total MSRP, including options like Heavy Metal paint and various mats, was $40,468. The 2026 bZ's design improvements, such as body-color trim, made it more appealing than its predecessor. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate control, which, despite initial concerns, was user-friendly with large icons and dials. However, the digital driver display's placement and size remained a drawback.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 presented a challenge with its lineup, offering three model designations based on powertrain: the 3.3 Turbo, 3.3 Turbo S, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version. The 3.3 Turbo was the most affordable, with trims ranging from $39,300 to $50,270, while the Turbo S and PHEV models were priced higher. The test vehicle, a 3.3 Turbo S with Premium Plus trim, featured second-row captain’s chairs and Artisan Red paint, bringing the MSRP to $59,695. The CX-90 boasted a stylish exterior with classic sporting proportions and a high-quality interior, though the wood trim had an undesirable olive undertone. The digital instrumentation was clear, and the 12.3-inch infotainment display was well-integrated. However, the center console was cluttered, and the electronic shifter was cumbersome. The climate control toggles were counterintuitive, and the i-Stop feature could be unpredictable, causing delays. Despite these issues, the Turbo S engine offered impressive power and acceleration, and the CX-90 excelled in handling, though the brakes struggled under enthusiastic driving conditions.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of power and efficiency options. The XLE with FWD and a 57.7-kWh battery delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles, though the Limited trim's range was slightly lower at 299 miles. Dual-motor models, available only with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges and efficiency ratings. The bZ could recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using a DC fast charger, and the larger battery required seven hours for a full charge with a Level 2 home charger. Efficiency tests showed the bZ exceeded EPA estimates in Eco mode but fell slightly short in Normal mode. The bZ's handling was adequate for city driving, but the FWD model struggled on winding roads due to its tires and steering.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrains, each with distinct performance characteristics. The 3.3 Turbo produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo S delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft on regular gas, increasing to 340 hp with premium fuel. The PHEV combined a 2.5-liter engine with a 68-kW electric motor, generating 323 hp and 369 lb-ft on premium fuel, with a 26-mile electric-only range. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with Sport and Off-Road driving modes. The Turbo S engine provided strong power and acceleration, but the powertrain could feel clunky, especially in cold weather. The i-Stop feature, designed to conserve fuel, was unpredictable and could cause delays. The CX-90's handling was a highlight, offering precise steering and a firm suspension, though the brakes struggled under heavy use. Fuel economy was reasonable, with the Turbo S averaging 25.5 mpg on a fuel-economy loop.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. Both front seats featured standard height adjustment, with eight-way power adjustment available in XLE and Limited trims. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and a tray beneath the console. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. The cargo area offered 27.7 cubic feet of space, reduced slightly in the Limited trim due to a subwoofer. Folding the rear seats expanded cargo capacity to 56.9 cubic feet.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 featured firm yet comfortable seats, with heated and ventilated front and second-row captain’s chairs and a heated steering wheel. Storage space was limited, with a shallow bin under the center armrest and a larger console between the second-row seats. Second-row passengers sat high with a good view and climate control panel, though legroom was less than some rivals. The third row was cramped, with limited foot space due to the second-row console. Cargo space was 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the seats folded. The total cargo capacity was 74.2 cubic feet, less than some competitors.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display was criticized for its placement and size, making it difficult to read. The infotainment system, running Toyota Audio Multimedia, was generally user-friendly but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with SiriusXM satellite radio and various connected service plans. The Drive Connect feature powered the navigation system and voice assistant, which performed well in tests.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment display on the base trim, with higher trims offering a 12.3-inch screen, wireless smartphone integration, and charging. The system was controlled via the center console, with touch capability only for smartphone integration. While intuitive at times, the system could be confusing, lacking a digital voice assistant. Amazon Alexa compatibility was standard but required an internet connection. The native voice recognition system was basic and not aligned with modern expectations, leading to reliance on Apple CarPlay for functionality.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs for safety. The Limited trim offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. The adaptive cruise control's response was inconsistent, and the driver monitoring system was overly sensitive. The bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with Good ratings for front-crash avoidance but Poor ratings for headlights.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 included standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like active blind-spot monitors and post-collision braking. The Premium Plus trim offered front cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system. The safety features operated predictably, though steering assist was less sophisticated. The CX-90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.