Mazda
CX-90
Owner report available
Subaru
Ascent
Owner report available
Mazda CX-90 vs Subaru Ascent
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mazda CX-90 comes out ahead of the Subaru Ascent on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
CX-90
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between driving experience and reliability concerns. The vehicle is very frequently praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, handling, and powertrain performance, often described as feeling more luxurious and sporty than mainstream competitors. The inline-6 turbo engine is noted for its power and smoothness, and the overall refinement and interior quality are recurrent positives.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. The Turbo S powertrain is mentioned for its performance.
Known issues
- New platform reliability concerns: multiple software recalls, unproven long-term durability of the new inline-6 engine, 8-speed transmission, and hybrid systems. Frequency: very frequent.
- Third-row space limitations: cramped and less usable compared to key competitors like the Telluride, Palisade, and Highlander. Frequency: recurrent.
- Interior packaging and storage: poorly laid out interior with limited useful storage compartments and cupholders compared to the previous CX-9 and competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
Ascent
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is widely praised for its safety, all-weather capability with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, spacious and usable third row, strong towing capacity for the class, and car-like handling. The turbocharged 2.4L FA24 engine is frequently noted for being robust and providing good power.
Best version to buy
Model year 2021 or newer. Specific feedback on trims is limited, but the Limited trim is mentioned positively for its feature set.
Known issues
- CVT transmission reliability: failures, recalls, whining noise, inability to handle heavy load or towing, concerns about long-term durability. Primarily affects 2019-2020 models. Frequency: very frequent.
- Disappointing fuel economy: real-world combined mileage reported around 22 MPG, which is considered poor for the class. Frequency: very frequent.
- Interior build quality and materials: interior rattles, use of hard plastics, compromises to meet price point. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mazda CX-90 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Subaru Ascent, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mazda CX-90 are a dealbreaker, the Subaru Ascent is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-90 or the Subaru Ascent?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mazda CX-90 than the Subaru Ascent. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Mazda CX-90 or the Subaru Ascent?
The Subaru Ascent seats more passengers than the Mazda CX-90 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Mazda CX-90 is classed as a SUV, the Subaru Ascent as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mazda CX-90 or the Subaru Ascent?
The EPA rates the 2026 Mazda CX-90 at 25–26 mpg combined and the 2027 Subaru Ascent at 21–22 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mazda CX-90 or the Subaru Ascent?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Subaru Ascent than the Mazda CX-90. See the known issues comparison above.