Mazda CX-90 vs. Hyundai Santa Fe

Mazda CX-90 vs. Hyundai Santa Fe: A Clear Advantage for Mazda

Drivers shopping for a three-row SUV often compare the Mazda CX-90 and the Hyundai Santa Fe when narrowing their options. At Woodhouse Mazda, the Mazda CX-90 stands out by blending performance, refinement, and everyday usability into a single, well-balanced package. For shoppers in Bellevue, the Mazda CX-90 delivers a driving experience that feels more composed and premium than many competitors.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offers multiple powertrain choices that emphasize smooth power delivery and confident handling. Available turbocharged inline-six engines provide strong acceleration, while the plug-in hybrid option adds electric driving capability for short trips. All-wheel drive is standard, providing consistent traction and stability.

The Hyundai Santa Fe focuses more on comfort than engagement. While capable, its turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid options do not deliver the same sporty response or towing capability found in the Mazda  CX-90. Drivers in Papillion who enjoy a more connected feel behind the wheel often appreciate Mazda's tuning and balance.

Interior Comfort and Cabin Design

Mazda places a strong emphasis on interior craftsmanship, and the Mazda CX-90 reflects that philosophy throughout the cabin. Soft-touch materials, refined leather options, and a clean dashboard layout create an upscale environment. Seating for up to eight passengers makes the Mazda CX-90 adaptable for families and carpools alike.

The Santa Fe features a bold interior design and generous technology, but its boxier proportions and rear visibility can feel limiting during daily driving. In Council Bluffs, families often find the Mazda CX-90's layout more intuitive and comfortable for longer trips.

Technology and Infotainment

The Mazda CX-90 integrates technology in a way that supports the driving experience rather than distracting from it. Available digital displays present information clearly, with crisp graphics and a layout that prioritizes what the driver needs most. Wireless smartphone integration allows easy access to navigation, music, and communication without extra cables, helping keep the cabin organized and uncluttered.

An available head-up display further enhances usability by projecting key details like speed, navigation prompts, and safety alerts directly into the driver's line of sight. This reduces the need to glance away from the road and contributes to a more confident driving experience. Mazda's infotainment interface is intentionally streamlined, relying on logical menus and physical controls that are easy to use while driving.

Hyundai offers large screens and a long list of features in the Santa Fe, but some drivers find the layout busy and less intuitive. Touch-heavy controls can require more attention than expected. The Mazda CX-90's balance of technology and simplicity appeals to shoppers in Omaha who value controls that feel natural and straightforward.

Efficiency and Everyday Practicality

Despite its size, the Mazda CX-90 delivers strong efficiency for a three-row SUV. Its powertrain lineup is designed to balance performance with fuel-conscious engineering, making it well suited for daily commuting, errands, and longer trips. The available plug-in hybrid version adds another layer of practicality by allowing electric-only driving for short distances while maintaining the flexibility of a gas engine for extended travel.

Interior space is thoughtfully designed, with seating and cargo configurations that adapt easily to changing needs. The Santa Fe's real-world fuel economy can vary more than expected, especially in gas-only trims. For drivers looking to maximize efficiency without giving up capability or comfort, the Mazda CX-90 offers a more consistent and versatile solution.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Mazda equips the CX-90 with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping support, blind-spot monitoring, and advanced collision mitigation systems. These features work seamlessly to enhance confidence on the road.

Hyundai also includes a wide range of safety features, but Mazda's systems are praised for their smooth operation and minimal intrusion. In busy traffic areas near Bellevue, that refinement can make daily driving more comfortable.

Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?

While the Hyundai Santa Fe offers bold styling and a feature-rich approach, the Mazda CX-90 delivers a more engaging drive, refined interior, and flexible powertrain options. Shoppers seeking a three-row SUV that balances performance, comfort, and efficiency will find the Mazda CX-90 to be the more rewarding choice.

Explore available models by visiting the Mazda CX-90 inventory and see how this SUV stands apart.