If you thought hybrid SUVs were all about fuel savings and little else, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 Hybrid is here to change your perspective. As Mazda’s most advanced three-row SUV to date, the CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) merges top-tier luxury with surprising versatility, innovation, and practicality. And while its stunning exterior and upscale interior already turn heads, it’s the hidden features that truly elevate it above the competition.
In this blog, we’re going to uncover seven game-changing things the CX-90 Hybrid can do—and why it might just be the smartest SUV upgrade in Marin and the greater San Francisco Bay Area.
1. Seamlessly Switch Between Gas and Electric Power
The CX-90 Hybrid isn’t just a regular hybrid—it’s a plug-in hybrid that gives you control. You can run it fully electric for short city commutes or rely on the powerful gas engine for long-distance road trips. With an all-electric range of approximately 26 miles (42 km) and a combined range over 490 miles (788 km), the CX-90 PHEV adapts to your lifestyle effortlessly.
You can plug it in overnight using a standard outlet or opt for a Level 2 charger to top it up in about 2.5 hours.
2. Tow Up to 3,500 lbs With Confidence
Towing and hybrids aren’t usually mentioned in the same sentence—but the CX-90 is the exception. Thanks to its turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it offers up to 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel.
Need to tow a small boat, trailer, or pair of jet skis to Lake Tahoe or Sonoma Coast? The CX-90 has your back with a 3,500 lb towing capacity, complete with an integrated trailer stability system.
3. Drive Like a Sports Sedan, Ride Like a Luxury SUV
The CX-90 Hybrid uses Mazda’s newly engineered rear-biased all-wheel drive platform, a departure from the brand’s previous front-drive architecture. What does this mean? Better cornering, more responsive steering, and a driving feel that’s closer to a German luxury sedan than a bulky SUV.
And thanks to Mazda’s Kinematic Posture Control, borrowed from the MX-5 Miata, the CX-90 stays flat and composed in corners, delivering an unexpectedly sporty ride.
4. Boost Cabin Air Quality With Advanced Filtration
You already expect comfort, but the CX-90 Hybrid takes health seriously. Its high-efficiency air filtration system can reduce airborne particles, dust, and even odors, helping keep your family breathing easier on long drives or during allergy season.
Paired with multi-zone climate control and ventilated front and rear seats, this SUV provides a sanctuary on wheels.
5. Predictive All-Wheel Drive With G-Vectoring Plus
Mazda’s i-Activ AWD doesn’t just react to road conditions—it predicts them. Using over 27 sensors that analyze braking, throttle, steering input, outside temperature, and wheel speed, the system can pre-emptively send power to the right wheels before slip even occurs.
G-Vectoring Control Plus fine-tunes cornering dynamics by subtly shifting engine torque. That means smoother lane changes, better corner control, and enhanced driver confidence whether you’re navigating Highway 1 or San Francisco’s tight city blocks.
6. Run Entirely on Electric Power in Stop-and-Go Traffic
Don’t waste fuel in Marin County traffic. In EV mode, the CX-90 Hybrid operates 100% on electric power at low speeds, such as when stuck on 101 or cruising through downtown San Rafael.
Unlike traditional hybrids that use electricity only in short bursts, the CX-90 PHEV can stay electric for much longer, reducing emissions and saving on gas—a major win for commuters.
7. Recharge with Regenerative Braking
The CX-90 Hybrid doesn’t just rely on plugs to stay charged. With regenerative braking, energy from deceleration and braking is converted back into battery power. This means that every time you slow down or stop, you’re gaining range.
The smart regenerative system also helps prolong brake pad life, reducing maintenance costs.
Bonus: Surprising Tech and Convenience Features
Still not convinced? Here are a few more things you might not expect from the CX-90 PHEV:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto with an intuitive 12.3-inch center display
- Hands-free power liftgate for easy cargo access
- Panoramic sunroof for bright, airy drives
- Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) to switch between Normal, Sport, EV, Off-Road, and Towing modes
- 360-degree View Monitor and front/rear parking sensors
These features may seem small, but they add up to a more intelligent, connected, and enjoyable experience.
How the CX-90 Hybrid Stacks Up to Rivals
| Feature | Mazda CX-90 Hybrid | Toyota Highlander Hybrid | Kia Sorento PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (USD) | $49,945 | $40,970 | $49,990 |
| All-Electric Range | 26 miles (42 km) | None | 32 miles (51 km) |
| Horsepower | 323 hp | 243 hp | 261 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs |
| AWD Standard | Yes | Optional | Yes |
| Rear-Biased Platform | Yes | No | No |
As you can see, the CX-90 competes fiercely with other hybrids, offering a luxury driving experience and surprising capability. What it may lack in electric-only range, it makes up in performance and refinement.
Is the Mazda CX-90 Hybrid Worth It?
Absolutely. If you want an SUV that feels like a sports car but behaves like a family hauler, the CX-90 Hybrid is one of the most compelling packages under $55,000.
You’re not just buying a hybrid. You’re getting:
- True all-electric flexibility
- Real towing muscle
- Upscale cabin luxury
- Japanese build quality
- Mazda’s signature driving dynamics
Whether you’re in Marin County, San Rafael, San Francisco, or San Leandro, it’s hard to overlook the value and features packed into this electrified SUV.
Final Thoughts
Mazda didn’t just build another hybrid SUV. They engineered the CX-90 Hybrid to rethink what a family vehicle could be. It combines performance, utility, efficiency, and refinement in one bold design that turns heads wherever it goes.
If you’re ready to make the switch to something smarter, cleaner, and more fun to drive, the CX-90 PHEV is waiting for you at Marin Mazda.
About Marin Mazda
Located in San Rafael, Marin Mazda proudly serves the greater Bay Area including San Francisco, San Leandro, Hayward, Burlingame, and San Jose. We offer competitive pricing, exclusive deals, and expert service for all Mazda models.
Visit us today to see why we’re the #1 Mazda Dealership in the region.
