Mazda CX90 PHEV. Los Angeles traffic makes hybrid vehicles an obvious choice, and the new Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid presents another option for families in LA.

I appreciate Mazda’s design, and the exterior of the CX-90 Hybrid continues to reflect elegant shapes and a vibrant appeal. As I drove around town, I noticed its potent powertrain. This Mazda has the e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain, which combines a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery. It produces 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended 91-octane premium fuel. I enjoy its flexibility, allowing operation solely on the electric motor in various driving scenarios, including cruising at freeway speeds. The Mazda CX90 PHEV models feature a Mi-Drive system enabling drivers to switch between sports, Off-Road, and EV modes. The EV mode allows the vehicle to operate on just the electric motor and battery for as long as possible. According to the manufacturer, it can travel 26 miles in pure EV mode, which I found particularly beneficial in slow traffic, minimizing gasoline usage.

The interior boasts a premium feel throughout, now featuring a 12.3-inch full-color center display, wireless phone charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, all with touchscreen capabilities. It also includes front and rear parking sensors to enhance vehicle technology. The seats in the premium version are a step above the competition.

Three CX-90 PHEV models are available: the base, the Premium Sport, and the Premium Plus. The differences lie in the interior and tech packages. The Sport version introduces 21-inch wheels that provide better grip, especially if you tend to exceed speed limits. Other interior upgrades include:

A power liftgate; A head-up Active Driving Display; A Mazda Navigation System with Off-Road Navigation functionality; A frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®; Enhanced interior LED illumination; An eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and two-position memory; Power-adjustable eight-way passenger seats; A Bose® 12-speaker audio system; SiriusXM® satellite radio with a three-month trial; A SiriusXM® three-year traffic and travel link subscription; A 1,500-watt charging outlet in the rear cargo area.

The base model features a standard second-row bench seat for an eight-passenger layout. At the same time, the upper trims offer second-row captain’s chairs for a more luxurious experience accommodating seven passengers. While the CX-90 PHEV is undoubtedly a well-rounded option, pricing starts at $49,900, with premium offerings costing around $57,000.

Mazda has been moving toward the premium luxury market lately, and the CX-90 PHEV exemplifies this shift at a reasonable price point. Additionally, Mazda vehicles maintain a substantial resale value for those who prefer to keep their cars for an extended period. If you are in the market for a family SUV, consider taking a closer look at the Mazda CX-90.