Blog
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV: Complete Guide to Specs, Range, Performance, Features, and Pricing
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV brings plug-in-hybrid technology to Mazda’s three-row SUV lineup, combining a gasoline engine, electric motor, and rechargeable battery into one powertrain. It is designed for drivers who want the flexibility of an SUV with all-electric driving for shorter trips while retaining a gasoline engine for longer journeys. For 2025, Mazda expanded the CX-90 lineup with the PHEV Premium Sport trim while continuing the PHEV Preferred and PHEV Premium Plus models.
The CX-90 PHEV is particularly interesting because it does not sacrifice conventional SUV capability for electrification. It offers all-wheel drive, three-row seating, up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, and 323 horsepower when using the recommended premium fuel. At the same time, its 17.8-kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated 26 miles of electric range.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is Mazda’s e-Skyactiv PHEV system. The setup combines a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 68-kW electric motor, and a 17.8-kWh high-capacity battery. Together, the system produces up to 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with the recommended 91-octane premium fuel.
The plug-in-hybrid system is designed to use electric power whenever conditions allow, while the gasoline engine can take over when the battery charge becomes low or additional power is needed. Mazda’s owner documentation explains that the e-Skyactiv PHEV combines EV driving with engine-and-motor operation to balance efficiency and performance.
The powertrain is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Mazda also uses its Mi-Drive system to provide different driving modes. Depending on equipment and conditions, drivers can select modes such as EV, Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, while towing-related functionality is available on applicable configurations.
Independent testing gives a useful perspective on performance. Edmunds recorded a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.6 seconds in its testing of the CX-90 PHEV, while also noting that electric-only acceleration is considerably slower than the vehicle’s hybrid performance.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Electric Range and Charging
One of the biggest reasons to consider the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is its ability to complete short trips using electricity alone. The EPA-rated electric range is 26 miles, and Edmunds lists a combined rating of 56 MPGe and 25 mpg when operating after the battery’s usable electric charge has been depleted.
That 26-mile figure is best understood as a daily-driving range rather than the range of a dedicated battery-electric vehicle. A driver with a short commute, school run, shopping trip, or local errands may be able to complete much of that routine without using gasoline, provided the vehicle is charged regularly.
Charging can be performed at home. Mazda says the CX-90 PHEV includes a portable Level 1 charging cable, while Level 2 charging can substantially reduce charging time. Edmunds lists approximately 2.1 hours at 240 volts in its specifications.
This makes home charging particularly important to the PHEV experience. Unlike a conventional hybrid, the CX-90 PHEV delivers its greatest efficiency advantage when owners actually plug it in and use the available electric energy regularly.
2025 CX-90 PHEV Interior, Seating, and Cargo Space
The CX-90 PHEV is built as a three-row midsize SUV and can accommodate up to eight passengers, depending on configuration. Certain trims can instead use second-row captain’s chairs, resulting in seven-passenger seating.
Inside, Mazda emphasizes an upscale environment with available premium materials, comfortable seating, and a clean dashboard layout. The 2025 model includes a 12.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, three-zone climate control, and a range of convenience features depending on trim.
The cabin’s strongest advantage is its combination of premium design and family-oriented functionality. However, shoppers should pay particular attention to the third row and cargo area. Edmunds lists 14.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity with all seats in place and up to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seating folded.
The third row is more suitable for children and occasional adult use than for carrying large adults on extended journeys. This is an important consideration for families comparing the CX-90 with other three-row SUVs.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Trim Levels and Pricing
For the 2025 model year, the CX-90 PHEV lineup includes PHEV Preferred, PHEV Premium Sport, and PHEV Premium Plus. Mazda added the Premium Sport configuration for 2025, giving buyers another equipment and design option between the existing trims.
Edmunds lists the 2025 PHEV range at approximately $49,945 to $57,950, depending on trim and pricing configuration. Its specifications list the PHEV Preferred at a $49,945 starting MSRP and the PHEV Premium Plus at $57,950. Actual transaction prices can differ according to destination charges, dealer pricing, incentives, options, taxes, and location.
The PHEV Preferred provides the fundamental plug-in-hybrid package along with standard technology and safety equipment. Moving into higher trims brings additional premium materials, comfort features, technology, and design upgrades.
Because pricing and incentives can change, buyers should verify the exact window sticker and available incentives for a particular vehicle before making a purchase.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Safety and Technology
Safety technology is another significant part of the CX-90 PHEV package. Available and standard systems vary by trim, but the vehicle offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency-braking-related technology.
The SUV also incorporates Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of driver-assistance technologies. Higher trim configurations can add additional camera and parking-related systems.
Technology extends beyond safety. The CX-90 PHEV can provide wireless smartphone connectivity, a large infotainment screen, navigation-related functionality, USB connectivity, wireless charging, and other convenience equipment. The overall approach is to make the vehicle function as both a family transportation tool and a premium-feeling daily driver.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Towing, Fuel Economy, and Everyday Use
Despite its electrified powertrain, the CX-90 PHEV remains a practical SUV. Mazda rates applicable CX-90 PHEV configurations for up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity when equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories.
EPA-related specifications cited by Edmunds show 24 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined when the vehicle operates in its gasoline/hybrid state, along with 26 miles of electric range.
This distinction matters. The PHEV’s fuel-saving potential depends heavily on how frequently it is charged. If the battery is routinely charged and most daily driving stays within the electric range, gasoline consumption can be reduced substantially. If the battery is rarely charged, the benefit of selecting a plug-in hybrid becomes less significant.
Long-term testing of the closely related 2024 CX-90 PHEV also found that the vehicle itself offered attractive handling and interior quality while raising concerns about the hybrid system’s refinement and efficiency once electric energy was exhausted.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Right for Your Needs?
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV occupies a distinctive position among three-row SUVs. Its combination of 323 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, plug-in capability, three-row seating, and premium-oriented interior gives it a broad range of uses.
It makes the most sense for drivers who have dependable access to charging and regularly make shorter trips. Those drivers can take advantage of the vehicle’s 26-mile electric range while keeping the gasoline engine available for road trips and longer journeys.
On the other hand, shoppers who rarely charge at home may not experience the full advantage of the PHEV system. The vehicle’s gasoline-only efficiency is listed at 25 mpg combined, which Edmunds notes is similar to the standard CX-90’s combined rating.
Ultimately, the 2025 CX-90 PHEV combines Mazda’s emphasis on driving dynamics with the flexibility of plug-in-hybrid technology. Its electric capability, powerful hybrid system, premium cabin, all-wheel drive, and towing ability make it a notable choice for buyers seeking a family SUV that can handle both everyday commuting and longer trips.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
How far can the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV drive on electricity?
The 2025 CX-90 PHEV has an EPA-estimated 26 miles of all-electric range.
How much horsepower does the CX-90 PHEV have?
The plug-in-hybrid powertrain produces up to 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended premium fuel.
How many people can the CX-90 PHEV seat?
Depending on the configuration, the CX-90 PHEV can seat up to eight people, while configurations with second-row captain’s chairs seat seven.
How much can the 2025 CX-90 PHEV tow?
Applicable CX-90 PHEV configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories.
How long does the CX-90 PHEV take to charge?
Edmunds lists approximately 2.1 hours using a 240-volt connection under its specifications. Mazda also supports Level 1 home charging and Level 2 charging.
What engine does the 2025 CX-90 PHEV use?
It combines a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery.
Does the CX-90 PHEV have all-wheel drive?
Yes. The PHEV is equipped with all-wheel drive.
What fuel does the 2025 CX-90 PHEV use?
Mazda recommends 91-octane premium unleaded fuel for maximum engine performance, although its owner’s manual states that lower-octane unleaded fuel can be used with some reduction in performance.
Conclusion
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV brings together the practicality of a three-row SUV and the flexibility of a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. With 323 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque, 26 miles of electric range, standard all-wheel drive, available seating for up to eight, and up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, it is engineered for drivers who want both electric capability and long-distance flexibility.
Its biggest consideration is how it will be used. Regular charging allows owners to take greater advantage of the electric drivetrain, while frequent long-distance driving without charging reduces the practical benefit of the plug-in system. With its upscale cabin, substantial technology package, and distinctive combination of performance and electrification, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV remains a noteworthy three-row SUV for drivers evaluating plug-in-hybrid transportation in 2026.