Bench Seats or Captain's Chairs? Configuring the CX-90 for a Big Saskatchewan Family
July 24 2026,
Extended families are common across Saskatchewan, and a three-row SUV that seats six people asks a different question than one that seats eight. Before comparing paint colours or infotainment screens, it's worth understanding how the Mazda CX-90's second-row seating choice actually changes what the vehicle can do for a Regina family that regularly hauls grandparents, cousins, or a full carpool.
The CX-90 offers two distinct second-row layouts — a bench seat and captain's chairs — and the choice isn't just a styling preference. It changes total passenger count, walk-through access to the third row, and how the middle seats feel for whoever ends up sitting between two other people.
CX-90 Seating Configurations at a Glance
|
Trim |
Second-Row Option |
Passenger Capacity |
|---|---|---|
|
GS (MHEV & PHEV) |
Bench seat (standard) |
8 passengers |
|
GT |
Bench seat (standard), captain's chairs (optional) |
8 passengers (bench) |
|
GT-P |
Bench seat or captain's chairs (buyer's choice) |
7 or 8 passengers |
|
Signature |
Captain's chairs with centre console (standard) |
6 passengers |
Bench Seating: Maximum Capacity for Big Families
A bench seat in the second row keeps the CX-90 at its full eight-passenger capacity, which matters for families who regularly need every seat filled — school carpools, extended family gatherings, or trips where nobody wants to be left behind. On GS and GT trims, the bench configuration is standard, and the GT-P offers it as one of two choices.
- Maximum seating capacity of eight passengers across all three rows
- A flat, wide second row that's easier to fit three car seats or boosters across, if needed
- Available on GS, GT, and GT-P trims, giving buyers flexibility without needing the top trim level
Captain's Chairs: Space and Comfort for Fewer Passengers
Captain's chairs trade two seats of total capacity for a centre walk-through to the third row and individual seating for each second-row passenger. This layout is standard on the CX-90 Signature, where it pairs with a centre console, and it's available as an option on GT and GT-P trims for buyers who'd rather have easier access to the back row than an extra seat.
- A centre walk-through that makes loading the third row easier without climbing over a middle passenger
- Individual seats with their own armrests, which tend to feel roomier for two adults riding in the second row
- Reduces total seating to six or seven passengers, depending on trim
Which Configuration Is Right for Your Saskatchewan Family?
Families who regularly need to seat eight people — for example, hauling grandparents and grandchildren on the same trip, or splitting school runs with another family — will get more consistent use out of the bench-seat CX-90. Families who more often carry five or six passengers, and who value easier third-row access over maximum capacity, may find the captain's-chair layout better suited to how the vehicle is actually used week to week. Buyers who aren't sure which pattern fits their household can compare both layouts in person, since the difference is easier to feel than to picture from a spec sheet.
Experience the CX-90 at Regina Mazda
Sitting in both second-row layouts is the clearest way to know which one fits your family's routine. Book your test drive today at our Regina dealership, and our team at Regina Mazda can walk you through which CX-90 trim offers the seating configuration that works best for your household.
