The 2025 Mazda CX-90 is proof that Mazda’s moving in the right direction. It looks good, drives better than ever, and feels like it belongs in a higher price bracket. The Subaru Ascent still does its job as a family SUV, but it’s starting to feel a step behind. If you’re torn between the two, find out how they really compare in this 2025 Mazda CX-90 vs 2026 Subaru Ascent overview.
Key Takeaways
- A new Premium Sport trim adds darker exterior accents and 21-inch wheels to the CX-90 lineup.
- A 12.3-inch infotainment screen is now standard on all but the base CX-90 Select trim.
- Subaru drops one of its Onyx Edition models, leaving only the Touring version for 2026.
Updates for the 2025 Mazda CX-90 vs the 2026 Subaru Ascent
In 2025, Mazda introduced a new Premium Sport trim to the lineup. It brings a darker, more aggressive look with blacked-out grille trim, roof rails, bumpers, and 21-inch wheels that suit the SUV’s proportions perfectly. Added features for this model year include a second-row bench seat on more trims and a larger 12.3-inch display as standard on nearly every model.
Subaru’s Ascent lineup, meanwhile, trims down rather than evolves for '26. The base Premium adds water-resistant seats and some black exterior trim, while the Touring adds new wood-grain interior accents. Subaru discontinued Cosmic Blue and replaced it with Sapphire Blue Pearl. Mazda also discontinued the more affordable Onyx Edition trim, leaving the pricey Onyx Edition touring.
2025 Mazda CX-90 vs 2026 Subaru Ascent Powertrain Options
Mazda’s powertrain lineup stands head and shoulders above the Subaru’s. The CX-90’s standard 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six delivers 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque and mates with an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. Higher-output S models push that same engine to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft, giving you effortless acceleration and a confident feel when merging or towing.
The Ascent’s smaller 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers just 260 horsepower by comparison and can feel strained when pushed. Its CV can also be noisy under load.
The CX-90 also takes this category thanks to Mazda’s mild-hybrid assist system. The base engine returns 24 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the more powerful S version stays close at 23 mpg city and 28 highway. The 2026 Ascent hasn’t been officially rated yet, but with no powertrain updates, it should mirror the 2025 figures of 20 mpg city and 26 highway.
2025 Mazda CX-90 vs 2026 Subaru Ascent Top Tech and Connectivity
The CX-90's rotary dial interface may divide opinions, but once you’re familiar with it, it’s quick and safe with no menus to tap through. A 12.3-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluetooth are standard on most trims; higher versions add navigation, wireless charging, and a crisp 12-speaker Bose setup.
The Ascent’s infotainment system is simpler, but also smaller and less refined. It still covers the essentials drivers expect, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The standard 11.6-inch touchscreen is easy to read.
Should You Consider the 2025 Mazda CX-90 or 2026 Subaru Ascent?
The CX-90 proves that you don’t need a luxury badge to get a luxury feel. It’s quieter, more powerful, and far more polished than the Ascent, inside and out. Subaru’s formula hasn’t changed much, and it shows — it’s practical, but it doesn’t move the needle.
If you want a three-row SUV that feels composed, upscale, and still within reach, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 remains the one to drive. Stop by Cogswell Motors and see how refined it can be!