Same Footprint, Different Lifestyles: The Ramsey Mazda Guide to the CX-70 and CX-90

Two SUVs with identical dimensions were built for completely different daily routines.

When choosing a two-row vs. three-row crossover SUV, many drivers assume they have to compare completely different vehicle footprints. But Mazda changed the rules with the 2026 Mazda CX-70 and the 2026 Mazda CX-90 by building both on the same large-platform chassis.

Do you know why? Instead of engineering a smaller, compromised chassis for their two-row offering, Mazda kept the same 122.8-inch wheelbase for both models.

This means when you see them parked side-by-side at our dealership right on Route 17 in Ramsey, they take up the same amount of space. Yet, they are designed for completely different daily routines. Whether you are daily commuting from Mahwah down to Paramus, or hauling kids and gear across the state line to Spring Valley, let's look at how these two vehicles utilize their shared space so you can find the best family SUV in NJ for your household.

The Shared Foundation: Why Exterior Size is Deceiving

Historically, manufacturers made two-row midsize SUVs significantly shorter and narrower than their three-row counterparts. Mazda took a different path.

The exterior dimensions of these two vehicles are nearly identical:

• Overall Length: The CX-70 is 200.8 inches; the CX-90 is 201.6 inches. That is a difference of less than one inch.
• Width: Both vehicles share the same wide-body width of 77.6 inches.
• Wheelbase: Both use the identical 122.8-inch wheelbase.

Because they share this premium, rear-biased all-wheel-drive platform, both SUVs handle traffic on Route 17 or East Ridgewood Avenue with the same composed, European-inspired ride. The real decision isn't about how they drive or how they fit in your garage in Ridgewood, it's entirely about how the cabin space is distributed.

Before we move on, a quick Hello from Ramsey Mazda!

We are all about helping you find the vehicle that matches your day-to-day life perfectly. Both the 2026 Mazda CX-70 and the 2026 Mazda CX-90 are currently available in our new inventory for you to check out. If you want to truly experience what they have to offer, we'd love to help you schedule a test ride so you can feel how they handle behind the wheel.

2026 Mazda CX-70: Built for Active Lifestyles and Max Cargo Flexibility

About the 2026 Mazda CX-70 interior, the most obvious layout choice is the absence of a third row. The 2026 Mazda CX-70 sitting capacity is capped at five passengers across two highly spacious rows.

For drivers who rarely carry more than four passengers, removing the third row unlocks serious practical advantages.

2026 Mazda CX-70 Cargo Specs and Storage

Because there is no third-row seating mechanism taking up space, the rear cargo area is optimized for gear.

• Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row): 39.6 cubic feet of flat, easily accessible floor space.
• Cargo Space (2nd Row Folded Flat): A massive 75.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.

But there is a mechanical detail you will appreciate: the sub-floor storage. Mazda engineers designed an extra, hidden compartment right under the rear trunk deck. It is the perfect spot to store valuable items out of sight, keep emergency roadside kits, or stow away muddy boots after a weekend hike at the Ramapo Valley Reservation in Mahwah.

"Mazda engineers designed an extra, hidden compartment right under the rear trunk deck."

If your lifestyle is about weekend road trips, hauling sporting gear, traveling with large dogs, or shopping runs to Bergen County retail hubs, the CX-70 gives you maximum trunk utility without the extra seats you don't need.

2026 Mazda CX-90: The Multi-Passenger Family Cruiser

If your weekdays are filled with school carpools in Rockland County or youth sports runs across Bergen County, you need seating flexibility. This is where the 2026 Mazda CX-90 comes in.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90's seating capacity can be configured to hold six, seven, or eight passengers, depending on the trim level you choose. You can select premium second-row captain's chairs with a fixed center console, or go with a traditional three-passenger bench seat in the middle row.

2026 Mazda CX-90 Cargo Specs and Versatility

Because it has to accommodate a third row, the cargo dynamics change depending on who is riding with you:

• Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row): 14.9 to 15.9 cubic feet (depending on the floor configuration). This is plenty of space for your weekly grocery bags from the Paramus Whole Foods.
• Cargo Space (3rd Row Folded): 40.0 cubic feet of space, matching the CX-70's standard trunk space.
• Cargo Space (All Rear Seats Folded): 74.2 to 75.2 cubic feet.

Interestingly, the absolute maximum cargo volume with all rear seats folded down is slightly smaller in the CX-90 than in the CX-70. That is because the folded third-row seat assembly takes up a small amount of floor depth.

But for busy families, the trade-off is well worth it. When you need to carry your kids and their friends, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 interior provides standard tri-zone automatic climate control and third-row USB-C charging ports to keep everyone quiet and comfortable during heavy traffic on Route 17.

Under the Hood: Electrified Powertrains

Mazda built both of these vehicles with modern efficiency in mind. Every single model in both lineups features a 2026 Mazda CX-70 electrified or 2026 Mazda CX-90 electrified powertrain.

You can choose between two primary mechanical setups on both SUVs:

1. The e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Inline-6 Mild Hybrid

This engine uses a 48-volt M Hybrid Boost system. The small electric motor assists the gas engine during acceleration from a complete stop.

• Standard Output: 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.
• High-Output (S Trims): 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
• Why it works: It offers incredibly smooth power delivery on local parkways while returning up to an EPA-estimated 28 mpg on the highway--highly impressive for an SUV of this scale.

2. The e-Skyactiv PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid)

If you want to handle your daily errands around Ramsey and Mahwah entirely on electric power, the plug-in hybrid is the ideal choice. Both the 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV and the 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV combine a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a high-capacity electric battery pack to generate 323 horsepower.

• Electric Range: An EPA-estimated 26 miles of pure electric driving on a full charge.
• The Practical Benefit: If your daily commute from Ridgewood to your office is under 12 miles, you can complete your entire round trip without using a single drop of gasoline.

Comparing the Cabins: Tech and Design Elements

Both vehicles are positioned to compete directly with luxury brands, featuring high-end materials like available Nappa leather and real wood trim.

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 tech features and 2026 Mazda CX-90 tech features are virtually identical. Both come standard with a 12.3-inch center infotainment display. Mazda uses a tactile Commander Control dial on the center console instead of a traditional touchscreen. This is a deliberate safety decision. It allows you to navigate menus and maps without taking your eyes off the road or leaning forward while driving through busy NJ highway intersections.

• Wireless Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect wirelessly on all trims.
• Alexa Built-In: The CX-70 includes standard Amazon Alexa integration. You can use voice commands to control smart home devices--like opening your garage door or turning on your entryway lights in Rockland County--right from the driver's seat.

While the technology is identical, the styling cues differ. The CX-70 uses sportier, blacked-out exterior trim, dark metal wheels, and distinct interior options like red Nappa leather. The CX-90 leans into a classic luxury aesthetic with bright chrome trim, silver-finished wheels, and warm interior color palettes.

Quick Reference: CX-70 vs. CX-90 At a Glance

Feature	2026 Mazda CX-70	2026 Mazda CX-90
Seating Capacity	5 passengers	6, 7, or 8 passengers
Number of Rows	2 Rows	3 Rows
Cargo (Behind Last Row)	39.6 cu. ft.	14.9 - 15.9 cu. ft.
Max Cargo Volume	75.3 cu. ft.	74.2 - 75.2 cu. ft.
Under-Floor Storage	Yes (Large deep bin)	No (Occupied by 3rd row)
Powertrains	Mild Hybrid / PHEV	Mild Hybrid / PHEV
Styling Cues	Sporty, blacked-out accents	Elegant, chrome accents

Which One is Right for Your Lifestyle?

Because these two SUVs share the same platform, chassis, and engine choices, your choice comes down to how you plan to use the vehicle every day.

The Mazda CX-70 is likely your best fit if:

• You rarely need to carry more than four passengers.
• You want maximum, flat cargo space to haul sports equipment, camping gear, or large pets.
• You prefer a sportier, modern, blacked-out design.

The Mazda CX-90 is likely your best fit if:

• You have a growing family or run a weekly neighborhood school carpool.
• You want the peace of mind of having extra seatbelts, even if you only use the third row occasionally.
• You prefer an elegant, traditional luxury aesthetic with bright chrome accents.

The best way to feel the difference is to sit in them yourself. Stop by Ramsey Mazda at 436 Route 17 South in Ramsey, NJ. We can set up a side-by-side comparison so you can test the rear legroom, experiment with folding the seats, and find the vehicle that matches your daily routine perfectly.

Best Family SUVs: At Ramsey Mazda

Our dedicated finance department is here to help you navigate your buying options and secure a competitive payment plan that fits your household budget. We also offer highly competitive rotating lease specials on both the 2026 Mazda CX-70 and the 2026 Mazda CX-90 to ensure you get the best possible value on your new vehicle. To save time at our Route 17 showroom, you can get the ball rolling from home by filling out our secure online credit application.

---

CX-70 & CX-90 FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions