Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs Mazda CX-90

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary improvements that Subaru had been making since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained its attractive design, with subtle updates that included a frameless grille and aerodynamic enhancements around the wheel arches. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, featuring durable materials and thoughtful design elements like the distinctive orange stitching on the StarTex seats. The cabin was straightforward, prioritizing function over flash, with upscale accents like chrome-trimmed power window switches and a heated steering wheel in the Limited Hybrid trim.

In contrast, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 boasted a striking exterior with classic sporting proportions, thanks to its short front overhang and long hood. The interior was equally impressive, with top-notch materials, although the olive-colored wood trim was a misstep. The digital instrumentation and 12.3-inch infotainment display were well-integrated, but the center console was cluttered, and the electronic shifter was cumbersome. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90's cabin exuded a sense of luxury, with supportive seats and a focus on driver engagement, although storage space was limited.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter Boxer H4 engine paired with two motor-generators, delivering a total system output of 194 horsepower. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with improved acceleration and smoother performance compared to the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized regenerative braking and offered a mechanical AWD system, enhancing its capability on variable terrain. However, during testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 mpg, falling short of the EPA's estimate of 36 mpg. The X-Mode traction management system and revised steering rack contributed to a more controlled driving experience, although the steering feel remained light.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain options, with the 3.3 Turbo S producing up to 340 horsepower on premium fuel. The PHEV variant combined a 2.5-liter engine with a 68-kilowatt electric motor, generating 323 horsepower and offering a 26-mile electric-only range. All powertrains used an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system, with Sport and Off-Road driving modes available. While the Turbo S engine provided impressive power and acceleration, the overall powertrain experience was marred by clunky operation and an unintuitive transmission shifter. The i-Stop feature, designed to conserve fuel, was unpredictable and could cause delays. Despite these issues, the CX-90 excelled in handling, offering precise steering and a firm suspension that enhanced driving enjoyment.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more cargo space and a larger gas tank, with a capacity of 16.6 gallons. This allowed for an impressive range of up to 597 miles between fill-ups. The cargo volume measured 18.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 50.6 cubic feet with the rear row folded. Rear-seat space was generous, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, front storage was limited, with a small tray and cupholders providing minimal space for personal items.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 featured firm yet comfortable seats, with heated and ventilated options for the front and second-row captain’s chairs. While the second row offered a good view and climate control panel, legroom was limited compared to rivals. The third row was cramped, with the center console impeding foot placement. Cargo space was 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the seats folded. Although the CX-90 accommodated a family of four on a two-week vacation, its total cargo capacity of 74.2 cubic feet was less than some competitors.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the infotainment system lagged behind competitors in terms of usability. The software was slow, and many controls were relegated to the touchscreen, which was a fingerprint magnet. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing an alternative to the Starlink software. The Limited Hybrid trim featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, although the navigation map was limited to the native system.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offered a 10.25-inch infotainment display on the base trim, with higher trims featuring a 12.3-inch screen and wireless smartphone integration. The system was sometimes intuitive but could be confusing due to its menu structure. Amazon Alexa compatibility was standard, but required an internet connection, leaving the native voice recognition system as the primary option. This system lacked natural-language capability, making it challenging to use for common tasks. Despite these limitations, Apple CarPlay worked flawlessly, providing a reliable alternative to Mazda Connect.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and automatic emergency braking. However, the 2025 model did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS due to lower scores in crash tests. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, but ratings for the 2026 model were not yet available.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced features like front cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, although it received four stars for frontal-impact protection.