How Do the CX-90 and CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid Compare?

Although three-row SUVs have become increasingly popular for large families, their size may restrict maneuverability. The Mazda CX-90 stands out in this segment due to its generous interior space and comfort in all three rows while also offering exceptional handling and performance. It also offers multiple powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option. In this article, our team at Hiley Mazda of Fort Worth compares the gas-powered CX-90 with the plug-in hybrid version to help you make an informed decision.

Mazda CX-90 Model Overview

The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row SUV available in six–, seven–, and eight-passenger seat configurations, allowing you to customize your vehicle according to your family’s specific needs. This is Mazda’s largest SUV, similar in size to the CX-70, which is a two-row version of the CX-90. Compared to similar three-row SUVs, the CX-90 stands out due to its precise handling, sophisticated interior, smooth ride, and excellent fuel economy. It also offers the advantage of an available plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Mazda CX-90 vs. CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid Key Feature Comparison

Although the Mazda CX-90 and the CX-90 plug-in hybrid are similar in terms of their comfort, luxury, and overall quality, they also present several differences.

Engine and Powertrain

The most important difference between the regular Mazda CX-90 and its plug-in hybrid version is their powertrain configurations. The base engine on the gas-powered Mazda CX-90 is a turbocharged 3.3-liter six-cylinder that generates up to 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. You can also opt for an upgraded version of the same engine, which produces 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and come with standard all-wheel drive.

The Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid system consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder internal combustion engine paired with a single electric motor and a 17.8 kWh battery pack. This system produces a combined output of 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle has standard all-wheel drive and can travel for up to 25 miles on battery power alone. The battery recharges from zero to 100% in about two hours and 20 minutes using a regular 240-volt outlet.

Design Differences

Although both vehicles offer a similar design, specific badging and trim elements distinguish the plug-in hybrid from the gas-powered CX-90. Other plug-in hybrid-specific differences include a charging port, which differs from the regular version’s gas flap, as well as various instrument cluster display elements that show the hybrid system’s overall performance, battery level, and charging status.

Fuel Economy

The main advantage of plug-in hybrids is lower fuel consumption. Even the gas-powered Mazda CX-90 is highly economical compared to other three-row SUVs. Both engine versions achieve about 25 mpg combined, which is excellent for a vehicle this size. Although the plug-in hybrid version also gets around 25 mpg in combined fuel economy, it also offers a 25-mile all-electric range. Depending on your driving habits, the plug-in hybrid can save you a significant amount of money on fuel.

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Available Trim Levels

The Mazda CX-90 and CX-90 plug-in hybrid comparison reveals slightly different trim configurations. The gas-powered CX-90 is available in the following trim levels:

• Select: This trim features 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, a power liftgate, keyless entry and start, LED headlights, synthetic leather upholstery, an eight-speaker sound system, and a 10.25-inch touch-screen interface with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.
• Preferred: This trim improves on some standard features while adding some of its own. It includes a sunroof, second-row sunshades, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a larger 12.3-inch touch screen, additional USB charge ports, and a wireless phone charger, among others.
• Premium Sport: This trim features 21-inch wheels, an upgraded Bose audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and driver’s seat memory functions.
• Premium Plus: This is the top trim for the base engine choice. It adds features such as power-folding exterior mirrors, premium leather upholstery, and a windshield wiper deicer.
• S Premium and S Premium Plus: The top two trims offer the same features as the Premium Plus trim, with the highest model adding quilted leather upholstery and ventilated second-row seats.

The CX-90 plug-in hybrid is available in the following three trims:

• Preferred: This model is similar to the gas-powered Select trim but also offers several features from higher trims, such as genuine leather upholstery and heated front seats.
• Premium Sport: This model is similar to the gas-powered Premium Sport version, with upgrades such as 21-inch wheels and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
• Premium Plus: This top-of-the-range trim offers three-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter, front and rear courtesy lights, and power door locks with speed-sensing auto-locking.

Discover the New Mazda CX-90 at Hiley Mazda of Fort Worth

If you’re in Fort Worth, Texas, we invite you to visit Hiley Mazda of Fort Worth to experience the latest CX-90 firsthand. Our friendly team will answer any questions you may have and help you explore your financing options. Contact us today and schedule a test drive to help you decide whether the 2025 CX-90 fits your lifestyle.