A Head-to-Head Look at the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV and the Gas-Powered CX-90
June 23 2023,
If you're weighing up the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV against its gas-powered counterpart, you'll notice some intriguing differences, particularly in the areas of performance, towing capability, and fuel efficiency.
Performance overview
The gas-powered CX-90 draws from a 3.3 liter e-SKYACTIV Inline-6 engine, with two distinct versions available. The base model's engine offers 280 hp and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the GT-P and Signature trims boost these figures to 340 hp and 369 pound-feet. The PHEV's 323 hp and 369 pound-feet of torque hold up well in comparison, exceeding the base model's output and matching the torque of the high-end variants.
Towing
When it comes to towing, the PHEV parallels the base model's 3500-pound capacity, but falls short of the 5000-pound maximum offered by the more powerful gas-powered versions. Regardless of the version, Mazda's i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive is a standard feature across the board.
Fuel economy
Fuel efficiency is where the PHEV truly shines. Although the gas-powered CX-90 models provide admirable fuel economy – averaging 9.9 L/100 km city and 8.4 L/100 km highway for the base model and 10.3 L/100 km city and 8.5 L/100 km highway for the premium models – the PHEV takes it to another level. With its all-electric capability, the PHEV can achieve an equivalent average fuel consumption of around 4 L/100 km, far surpassing the gas-only model's 9.4 L/100 km average.
Pricing
In terms of price, the gas-powered CX-90 starts at just over $45,000, while the PHEV model begins around $55,000, with high-end models for both crossing the $60,000 threshold. But with the potential for government incentives and electrified vehicle rebates, the PHEV's price tag becomes increasingly attractive.
So, which should you go for? While the PHEV excels in performance and efficiency compared to the base Inline-6 model, the top-tier gas-powered models deliver superior horsepower and towing capacity. However, both models are unparalleled in their respective domains, and choosing one will hinge on your individual requirements.
