Which Mazda SUVs Have a 3rd Row?

Shopping for a family-friendly SUV and wondering which Mazdas offer three rows? As of today, Mazda’s U.S. lineup has one new model with third-row seating: the Mazda CX-90. If you’ve seen older articles mentioning the CX-9, that model left the lineup after the 2023 model year. Below, our Sport Mazda South team breaks down what’s current, what’s changed, and how to choose the right configuration for your crew.

The short answer: CX-90 is Mazda’s current 3-row SUV

If you want a brand-new Mazda with three rows, the CX-90 is your pick. It’s Mazda’s largest SUV and is available with flexible seating for up to eight, depending on the trim and the second-row layout you choose. Shoppers can opt for an inline-6 powertrain or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV); both versions offer a usable third row and family-minded features.

CX-90 seating layouts explained (6, 7, or 8 passengers)

Mazda offers the CX-90 with multiple cabin configurations so you can prioritize maximum capacity or second-row comfort:

• 8-passenger: second- and third-row bench seats (three across in the third row). This is the best pick when you need every seat, every day.

• 7-passenger: second-row captain’s chairs plus the three-seat third row. This keeps access to the third row easy while giving second-row passengers their own space.

• 6-passenger: select trims offer two captain’s chairs in the second row and two seats in the third row for a premium, lounge-like layout.

All CX-90 models include split-folding rear seats so you can mix passengers and cargo as needed. On Mazda’s specs pages you’ll also see the third row listed as a 60/40 split with three seating positions on appropriate trims.

Quick tip: If you regularly carry two child seats, captain’s chairs often make buckling simpler and allow a pass-through to the third row. If you frequently carpool, the 8-passenger bench configuration maximizes capacity.

CX-90 powertrains: inline-6 or plug-in hybrid

You can pair your preferred seating layout with two distinct personalities:

• e-SKYACTIV G 3.3L Inline-6 (M-Hybrid Boost): smooth, long-legged power that’s great for highway trips across Florida and confident passing on I-4.

• CX-90 PHEV: a plug-in hybrid with a useful all-electric driving range for short errands, plus hybrid efficiency for longer drives. The PHEV is offered with third-row seating and up to eight-passenger capacity on select trims.

If at-home charging is part of your plan, the PHEV’s electric miles can cover many school drop-offs and around-town routines, while gas + electric operation handles road trips.

What about the Mazda CX-9?

The beloved CX-9 was Mazda’s three-row SUV for years, but Mazda officially discontinued it after the 2023 model year to make room for the CX-90. If you’re open to a certified pre-owned or used Mazda, a low-mile CX-9 can still be a smart, budget-friendly way to get three rows with Mazda’s trademark driving feel. For new vehicles, though, the CX-90 is the successor.

Do any other Mazdas have a third row?

Two common questions we hear in the showroom:

• “Does the CX-70 have three rows?” No. The CX-70 is a two-row midsize SUV—think of it as the sportier, five-passenger counterpart to the CX-90.

• “I heard about a CX-80—can I buy that here?” The CX-80 is a three-row model for markets outside North America. In the U.S., the CX-90 fills that role.

In short: in the U.S. today, CX-90 is the Mazda with a third row; CX-70, CX-50, and CX-5 are all two-row models.

How to choose the right CX-90 for your family

Here’s how we guide Orlando-area shoppers to the best fit:

1. Headcount & habits

   • Daily seven or eight people? Start with the trims offering the second-row bench (8-passenger) or captain’s chairs (7-passenger).

   • Occasional third-row use? Any CX-90 with the three-seat third row works; focus on features you’ll enjoy every day (audio, seating materials, driver aids).

2. Car-seat logistics

   • Consider whether you want a center pass-through (captain’s chairs) or a full three-across bench for maximum flexibility. Bring your child seats to your test drive—we’ll help you try various placements.

3. Cargo vs. people balance

   • With all three rows up, you’ll have usable space for groceries or gear. Need to load a stroller or sports equipment? The split-folding third row lets you keep one seat up for a passenger and fold the rest to open up the cargo area.

4. Powertrain preferences

   • Inline-6: ideal if you value effortless power, tow more frequently, or simply love a refined, traditional driving feel.

   • PHEV: perfect for short-trip efficiency and the quiet, electric glide in city traffic, with hybrid flexibility for road trips. (Both PHEV and inline-6 versions offer three rows.)

5. Features that matter in real life

   • Look for USB-C ports in all three rows, available hands-free liftgate, and driver-assist features that reduce fatigue on long hauls to the coast or up the Turnpike.

Test-drive tips around Orlando

When you visit Sport Mazda South, bring the whole crew and plan a realistic route:

• School-run simulation: Have second-row passengers practice buckling while you test visibility and the optional captain’s-chair pass-through.

• Parking practice: Try parallel and lot parking; the CX-90’s driver-assistance tech and available surround-view camera make tight spaces easier.

• Cargo check: Fold the third row and load a stroller or cooler to confirm the space feels effortless for your routine.

Tell us how you use your vehicle—weekday commutes on I-4, weekends at the beach, theme-park trips—and we’ll tailor trim, seating, and accessories (like cargo liners and sunshades) accordingly.

Considering a used three-row Mazda?

If your budget points you toward pre-owned, we can help you compare CX-90 and late-model CX-9 inventory side by side. The CX-90 rides on Mazda’s newest platform with the latest tech, while the CX-9 remains a comfortable, great-to-drive three-row SUV if you find the right example. Either way, we’ll walk you through safety features, service history, and warranty options.

The bottom line

• New three-row Mazda today: CX-90 (inline-6 or PHEV), with 6-, 7-, or 8-passenger seating depending on configuration.

• Former three-row Mazda: CX-9 (discontinued after 2023).

• Two-row Mazdas: CX-70, CX-50, CX-5.

• Overseas three-row you may read about: CX-80 (not sold in the U.S.).

Ready to see how a three-row Mazda fits your life? Stop by Sport Mazda South for a personalized walk-around and test drive. We’ll help you choose the right seating layout, powertrain, and features—and make sure everyone from the front seat to the back of the third row is comfortable and happy.