Three-row SUV comparison · West Palm Beach, Florida
2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2026 Mazda CX-90 in West Palm Beach
The 2027 Ascent is the stronger shortlist choice for shoppers who want a straightforward seven- or eight-seat AWD family SUV, 8.7 inches of clearance and a 5,000-pound towing maximum without moving into an upper trim. The latest fully verified CX-90 information is for the 2026 model; it may suit drivers who prioritize inline-six output, an eight-speed automatic, higher published MPG or a plug-in hybrid. Ascent has no hybrid, so Mazda's electrification advantage is real.
Which one belongs on your shortlist?
Choose the 2027 Subaru Ascent if…
- You want a clear choice between seven- and eight-passenger layouts.
- You value 8.7 inches of clearance and standard Symmetrical AWD.
- You need a 5,000-pound towing maximum without stepping above the entry Ascent trim.
- You prefer Subaru's published 153.2-cubic-foot passenger volume and family-focused packaging.
Keep the Mazda CX-90 on your list if…
- You prefer a 280-horsepower inline-six with 332 lb-ft and an eight-speed automatic.
- You value the gas CX-90's 23/28/25 MPG estimate.
- You want an available plug-in hybrid with up to 26 miles of electric range.
- You prefer Mazda's driving-focused chassis and interior presentation.
Compare exact configurations and decision points
This compares two eight-seat gas AWD entry configurations. Mazda's PHEV and higher-output Turbo S are separate choices with different pricing, fuel and seating details.
| Decision point | 2027 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 2.4L turbo / CVT / AWD | 2026 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select 3.3L turbo inline-six / 8-speed / AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP before destination | $40,795 | $39,300 |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD standard | i-Activ AWD standard |
| Published output | 260 hp / 277 lb-ft | 280 hp / 332 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | Eight-speed automatic |
| EPA estimate, city / highway / combined | 19 / 26 MPG; combined not listed in the cited Subaru summary | 23 / 28 / 25 MPG |
| Passenger seating | 8; seven-seat Premium also available | 8 in Turbo Select |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 inches | Confirm on the exact Mazda configuration; not stated in the cited pricing release |
| Maximum towing capacity | 5,000 lb. when properly equipped | 3,500 lb. on Turbo Select; 5,000 lb. begins on properly equipped Premium Sport |
Manufacturer MSRPs exclude destination, taxes, title, license, options, dealer-installed equipment and dealer charges unless specifically stated. Dealer prices vary. EPA estimates are for comparison and actual mileage varies. Schumacher Subaru of West Palm Beach can provide current inventory and itemized pricing only for the Subaru vehicles it sells; it cannot quote or verify another dealer's price, fees, incentives or payments.
Where Mazda CX-90 has an advantage—and what Ascent offers instead
CX-90 has more output and higher published MPG
Mazda's 3.3 Turbo Select publishes 20 more horsepower, 55 more lb-ft and 23/28/25 MPG. Ascent does not claim a power or efficiency win. It counters with 8.7-inch clearance, a simpler seven/eight-seat choice and a 5,000-pound towing maximum at the entry Premium configuration.
CX-90 offers an eight-speed automatic
Drivers who dislike a CVT may prefer Mazda's conventional eight-speed. Ascent's counterbalance is its family packaging, standard AWD and broad low-end torque, but transmission feel is subjective and deserves a back-to-back drive.
CX-90 offers a plug-in hybrid
The PHEV publishes 323 horsepower, 369 lb-ft and up to 26 miles of electric range. Ascent has no hybrid or plug-in hybrid for 2027 and cannot overcome that advantage for shoppers who require electric driving. Ascent remains relevant when gasoline, eight seats, clearance and 5,000-pound towing are the priorities.
Why are the model years different?
This page labels 2027 Ascent and 2026 CX-90 because those are the latest complete U.S. manufacturer specifications verified during the October 26, 2026 review. It would be less accurate to apply 2026 Mazda specifications to an unverified 2027 CX-90.
Recheck Mazda's official model-year information before publication and again when a 2027 CX-90 is announced. Until then, the exact years stay visible in the title, table, metadata and source ledger.
Build a useful West Palm Beach comparison drive
Schumacher Subaru serves West Palm Beach, Wellington, Greenacres, Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and communities north toward Jupiter and Stuart. A short route can reveal more than a generic ranking:
- Compare the CVT and eight-speed automatic during an Okeechobee Boulevard start and an I-95 merge.
- Seat the family in all three rows and compare third-row access, air vents, USB access and conversation between rows.
- Test the cargo area with the third row both raised and folded; bring the stroller, luggage or sports gear you actually use.
- If considering CX-90 PHEV, decide whether home charging and electric range matter enough to outweigh Ascent's clearance and entry-trim towing package.
Visit Schumacher Subaru: 3021 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33409. Contact Sales before traveling so the exact Ascent trim and test-drive time can be confirmed. Courtesy delivery for a completed new-vehicle purchase may be available to agreed locations from West Palm Beach through Port St. Lucie; ask the team to confirm eligibility and timing.
Questions shoppers ask about Ascent and Mazda CX-90
Why compare a 2027 Ascent with a 2026 CX-90?
The 2026 CX-90 was the latest complete U.S. model-year pricing and packaging source verified for this review. The page does not guess at 2027 Mazda specifications.
Which has more power?
The 2026 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select publishes 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft, versus 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft for Ascent.
Does Ascent offer a hybrid?
No. The 2027 Ascent is gasoline-only. CX-90 offers a separate plug-in hybrid, which is a material Mazda advantage for shoppers who require electrification.
Can Schumacher Subaru quote a Mazda CX-90?
No. We can provide current availability and itemized pricing for an Ascent. Mazda specifications and MSRP references come from Mazda's official materials.
Compare the Subaru before you decide
Tell our West Palm Beach team which priorities control your decision. We can show an available Ascent, explain its exact equipment and provide itemized Subaru pricing. You do not need to own the competing brand or have a trade.
Optional: estimate the value of any trade. A trade is not required to use this guide or contact the Sales team.
