2026 Honda Passport vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Canadian trims included GS-L, GS, GT, GT-P, and Signature, with pricing ranging from $48,846 to $67,886. The test vehicle, equivalent to the Signature trim, featured extra-cost Soul Red paint, bringing the MSRP to $67,286. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Its sculptural sheet metal and design elements contributed to a low, long, athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 continued its premium feel with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, though some materials reflected its price point. Ergonomic issues included a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, but overall, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2026 Honda Passport was notable for its extra-large proportions and blocky dimensions, adhering to a rugged SUV design. It featured a nearly flat hood and a blunt nose, with bracket-shaped amber running lights framing the upper grille. The Passport's profile, with a blacked-out D-pillar and large rear-quarter window, drew inspiration from a backpack, though it also resembled a pre-2024 Chevrolet Traverse or Land Rover Discovery. Fun features included nearly invisible rock sliders and a scratch-resistant roof panel for leaning equipment. The rear showcased a blocky tailgate with a two-tone design and standard roof rails. Inside, the Passport offered four trim levels in Canada, with the TrailSport model's cloth and vegan interiors being more visually appealing than the Touring trims' leather. The Passport's interior was practical, with physical buttons and knobs, and it excelled in cargo space and rear-seat legroom, making it ideal for family road trips.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain lacked refinement, despite its turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine generating 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power flowed through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, with a rear-wheel bias for better dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel economy ratings were 9.3 to 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the engine, while the PHEV offered 42 kilometres of electric range. The CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, but drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. Noise and impact harshness were noticeable, and the electronic shifter was fussy. Despite these flaws, the CX-90's suspension provided a firm, communicative ride, and it was enjoyable to drive in Normal mode.

The 2026 Honda Passport aimed to excel both on and off-road, with improved approach and departure angles, skid plates, and 18-inch wheels for better ride comfort and off-road traction. The i-VTM4 AWD system was standard, along with seven drive modes, including new Sport, Trail, and Tow modes. The Passport retained a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Passport impressed on an off-road circuit, with the V6 providing ample power and the steering demonstrating satisfying weight. On highways, the all-terrain tires generated noise, but the cabin was well-insulated. The Passport's powertrain focused on reducing emissions rather than increasing power, with fuel economy ratings of 12.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.4 combined. Despite the cleaner engine, the Passport's fuel economy remained similar to its predecessor.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel in Signature trim. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin quickly. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating, though seat-track travel was limited. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's storage options were limited, with a smartphone charging tray, shallow bin, and small trays under the load floor. Cargo space measured 451 litres behind the third row, 1,155 litres with the third row folded, and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened, which was small for the segment.

The 2026 Honda Passport featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen and physical controls, offering a refreshing approach to modern design. It excelled in cargo space, with 1,246 litres behind the rear seat and 2,356 litres with the seats folded, making it the most capacious in the midsize crossover segment. The Passport also offered best-in-class rear-seat legroom and ample storage options, including a shelf ahead of the front passenger. A panoramic moonroof was standard in Canada, and Touring trims added ventilated front seats. Honda planned to offer post-production option packages, including a rear cargo shelf that could be used as a table.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen, with a traditional gauge cluster and display. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, while the native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons. Mazda's voice recognition system was hit and miss, and a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with blind-spot alerts.

The 2026 Honda Passport boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were also standard, along with a wireless phone charger. The Passport's touchscreen was easy to use, with bright colours and satisfactory resolution. Additional tech features included a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, four USB-C charging ports, and a 10.2-inch digital driver information display. Touring trims added a 12-speaker Bose stereo system and the TrailWatch camera system.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, a safe exit warning system, front cross-traffic alert, front parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was irritating, and the audible warning systems were excessive.

The 2026 Honda Passport came with Honda Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, traffic-sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The Passport also featured eight standard airbags. The previous-generation Passport had less-than-stellar crash test results, and the 2026 model's safety ratings were pending.