2025 Jeep Wrangler vs 2026 Mazda CX-90
Comparison Overview
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler fires the imagination with its rugged, go-anywhere attitude, boasting a stout 285 hp and standard four-wheel drive for legendary capability, though it sips fuel at a mere 19 MPG combined. Conversely, the sleek 2026 Mazda CX-90 offers sophisticated performance, delivering a commanding 332 lb-ft of torque while achieving a much healthier 25 MPG combined. While the Wrangler is remarkably compact at 166.8 inches long, the CX-90 stretches out to 200.8 inches, offering more passenger and 14.9 cu ft of cargo space versus the Jeep's 12.9 cu ft. This contrast highlights a choice between visceral off-road purity versus premium, efficient on-road mastery, reflected in the $6,705 MSRP difference separating these two very different driving machines.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Mazda CX-90
The CX-90 wins for commuters due to its superior 25 MPG combined fuel economy versus the Wrangler's 19 MPG.
2026 Mazda CX-90
The significantly longer 2026 Mazda CX-90 (200.8 inches) provides a more spacious cabin and marginally more cargo capacity at 14.9 cu ft.
2025 Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler appeals more to driving purists with its engaging 6-speed manual transmission paired with authentic 4WD capability.
2025 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler undercuts the Mazda by $6,705 while still providing 285 hp, offering robust power at a lower entry price.
Choose the Jeep Wrangler if...
- You prioritize a traditional, engaging 6-speed manual transmission experience.
- Your adventures demand rugged capability with standard four-wheel drive.
- Budget is critical, as the Wrangler starts $6,705 less than the CX-90.
Choose the Mazda CX-90 if...
- Maximizing fuel stops is important, leveraging the CX-90's 25 MPG combined efficiency.
- You need more torque, as the CX-90 provides 332 lb-ft compared to the Wrangler's 260 lb-ft.
- Daily driving requires the comfort and interior space of a larger 200.8-inch crossover.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Jeep Wrangler | Mazda CX-90 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 166.8" | 200.8" |
| Width | 73.9" | 78.5" |
| Height | 73.6" | 68.3" |
| Wheelbase | 96.8" | 122.8" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Front Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | โ | โ |
| Electronic Stability Control | โ | โ |
| Traction Control System | โ | โ |
| LATCH System | โ | โ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Assist | โ | โ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | โ | โ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | โ | โ |
| Front Fog Lights | โ | โ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Headrests | 2 | 3 |
| Rear Folding Headrests | โ | โ |
| Engine Immobilizer | โ | โ |
| Blind Spot Monitor | โ | โ |
| Lane Departure Warning | โ | โ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | โ | โ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | โ | โ |
| Driver Attention Alert | โ | โ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Third Row Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | โ | โ |
| Brake Preparation System | โ | โ |
| Automatic Headlights | โ | โ |
| LED Headlights | โ | โ |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | โ | โ |
| Daytime Running Lights | โ | โ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | โ | โ |
Engine
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.6 L | 3.3 L |
| Number of Cylinders | V6 | inline 6 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 285 hp @ 6400 rpm | 280 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm | 332 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 24 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | โ | โ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | four wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| 4WD System Type | Part Time | โ |
| Transfer Case Gearing | Manual Hi-Lo | โ |
| Locking Hubs | Automatic | โ |
| Center Differential Type | โ | Limited Slip |
| Hill Descent Control | โ | โ |
Fuel
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 17/23 MPG | 23/28 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 19 MPG | 25 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 297.5/402.5 mi. | 425.5/518.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.5 gal. | 18.5 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | โ | โ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Rear View Camera | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Front Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Front Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Front Seatback Storage | โ | โ |
| Power Driver Seat Easy Entry | โ | โ |
| Single Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Cargo Floor Mats | โ | โ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Electric Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Cupholders | โ | โ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | โ | โ |
| Manual Rear Seat Easy Entry | โ | โ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Three Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | โ | โ |
| Interior Air Filtration | โ | โ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | โ | โ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 10.3 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | โ | โ |
| Speaker System | 8 | 8 |
| Android Auto (Wired) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | โ | โ |
| USB Port | โ | โ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | โ | โ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | โ | โ |
| Memory Card Slot | โ | โ |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | โ | โ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 2 | 4 |
| Heated Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 42.6 in. | 39.7 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.2 in. | 41.7 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.8 in. | 59.2 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 53.9 in. | 56.2 in. |
| Seat Material: Cloth | โ | โ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | โ |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Manual | Power |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | โ | 8-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 41.7 in. | 39.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 35.7 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 57.7 in. | 58.1 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 45.0 in. | 55.5 in. |
| Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | โ | โ |
| Folding Center Armrest | โ | โ |
| Manual Folding Third Row Seat | โ | โ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Steel | โ |
| Wheel Size | 17 x 7.5 in | 19 x 8.5 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 245/75R17 | 265/55R19 |
| Spare Tire Type | Full Size Matching | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Outside Rear Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Material | โ | Alloy |
Suspension
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Front Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | โ | โ |
| Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
Warranty
| Feature | Jeep | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Jeep Wrangler and 2026 Mazda CX-90.
What is the primary performance trade-off between the 2025 Wrangler and the 2026 CX-90?
The Wrangler excels in raw horsepower at 285 hp and offers a manual gearbox, fitting its enthusiast focus. However, the CX-90 counters with significantly higher torque at 332 lb-ft, which aids in everyday drivability and highway passing power.
How does the fuel economy difference impact daily driving costs?
The CX-90 delivers 6 MPG better combined efficiency (25 MPG vs. 19 MPG) than the Wrangler, translating directly to fewer trips to the pump, which is a major factor given their similar horsepower ratings.
Which vehicle is better suited for moving large items based on specifications?
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is the winner for cargo volume, offering 14.9 cubic feet compared to the Jeep Wrangler's 12.9 cubic feet, despite being built on a traditional SUV/crossover platform.
Does the lower MSRP of the Jeep make it a better overall value?
For buyers focused solely on the initial outlay, the Jeep offers a substantial $6,705 savings. However, the CX-90โs superior efficiency and added length may offset the initial cost difference over the vehicle's lifespan.
How do the transmission options affect the driving feel?
The Wrangler gives drivers ultimate control with its 6-speed manual, ideal for tricky terrain or enthusiast engagement. The CX-90 uses a smoother 8-speed shiftable automatic designed for refined on-road comfort and better highway cruising.
Are the size differences substantial for city parking?
Yes, the Wrangler is considerably shorter at 166.8 inches in length and narrower at 73.9 inches wide, making the compact Jeep easier to maneuver and park in tight urban environments than the expansive CX-90.
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