Why the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is the Smart Choice for Scarborough Families
November 29 2025,
Scarborough families shopping for a three-row SUV face a practical question: how do you get the space you need without sacrificing fuel efficiency or breaking the budget at the pump? The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV answers that question with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines electric-only commuting, standard all-wheel drive, and seating for up to eight—all while qualifying for federal and provincial incentives that can reduce your upfront cost by thousands of dollars.
For families navigating Ontario winters, managing multiple school drop-offs, and balancing weekend road trips with daily errands, the CX-90 PHEV delivers measurable savings and real-world versatility. Here's how it stacks up against other three-row options—and why it makes financial sense for drivers in Scarborough.
At a Glance: 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Key Highlights
|
Category |
Specification |
|
Powertrain |
2.5 L 4-cylinder engine + electric motor (e-Skyactiv PHEV) |
|
System Output |
323 hp / 369 lb-ft torque (with premium fuel) |
|
Battery Capacity |
17.8 kWh lithium-ion |
|
Seating |
7 or 8 passengers (depending on trim) |
|
Towing Capacity |
1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) |
|
Drivetrain |
i-Activ AWD (standard) |
|
Charging Time |
1.3 hours (Level 2, 240V) / 6.4 hours (Level 1, 120V) |
How Plug-In Hybrid Technology Cuts Your Fuel Costs
The CX-90 PHEV's 17.8 kWh battery provides enough range for most daily commutes entirely on electric power. That means trips from Scarborough to downtown Toronto, school runs along Kingston Road, or errands around Markham can happen without burning a drop of gasoline. When the battery depletes, the 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine seamlessly takes over, delivering 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque for highway merging or long-distance travel.
Real-world savings example: If you drive 40 km per day (typical for Scarborough commuters) and charge overnight at home, you could complete most weekday driving on electricity alone. At Ontario's average residential electricity rate of $0.12/kWh, a full charge costs roughly $2.14. Compare that to a traditional gas-only three-row SUV averaging 10 L/100 km—at current GTA fuel prices near $1.50/L, the same 40 km costs approximately $6.00 in gas. Over a year, the difference adds up to significant savings, especially for families with predictable daily routes.
The PHEV system also includes multiple drive modes through Mazda's Mi-Drive system: Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and EV. EV mode prioritizes electric-only operation for quiet, emissions-free driving in residential neighbourhoods or parking structures. When you need full power—merging onto Highway 401 or climbing the Don Valley Parkway—the system combines engine and electric motor output for confident acceleration.
Performance and Capability: Power When You Need It
The CX-90 PHEV's e-Skyactiv PHEV system pairs a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine with a permanent magnet-type synchronous electric motor. Combined system output reaches 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended premium fuel (319 hp with regular 87-octane). The electric motor alone contributes 173 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, providing instant response from a standstill—ideal for merging onto busy Scarborough streets or navigating stop-and-go traffic on Lawrence Avenue.
Standard i-Activ AWD monitors road conditions 200 times per second, adjusting torque distribution between front and rear wheels before slippage occurs. This predictive system excels in Ontario's variable winter weather, maintaining traction on snow-covered side streets, slushy highway ramps, and icy parking lots. Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) further enhances stability by applying subtle brake pressure to inside wheels during cornering, reducing body roll and keeping the CX-90 planted through tight turns.
Towing capacity reaches 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) when equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories. This handles small utility trailers, pop-up campers, or a pair of snowmobiles for winter weekend getaways to cottage country. The eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and paddle shifters gives drivers control over gear selection when towing uphill or engine braking downhill.
Interior Space and Seating Configurations
Three-row SUVs succeed or fail based on how well they accommodate real family life. The CX-90 PHEV offers two seating layouts: eight-passenger capacity with second and third-row bench seats (standard on GS trim), or seven-passenger capacity with second-row captain's chairs (standard on GS-L and GT trims). The captain's chair configuration includes armrests and a center walk-through, making third-row access easier for kids and reducing sibling disputes over middle-seat assignments.
Cargo volume adapts to your needs:
- Behind third-row seats: 423 litres (8-seat) / 451 litres (7-seat)
- Behind second-row seats: 1,133 litres (8-seat) / 1,155 litres (7-seat)
- Behind front seats: 2,101 litres (8-seat) / 2,129 litres (7-seat)
These measurements translate to practical scenarios: the third row accommodates three children comfortably, while folding it flat creates enough space for hockey bags, strollers, and grocery runs to Costco. Second-row seats slide and recline independently, allowing you to prioritize either passenger legroom or cargo flexibility depending on the trip.
Interior features across PHEV trims include three-zone automatic climate control with third-row AC vents, heated front seats, and a 10.25-inch full-colour center display running Mazda Connect infotainment. GS-L and GT trims add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, eliminating the need for charging cables during short trips. Six USB-C ports (two per row) ensure every passenger can keep devices charged on long drives.
Trim-by-Trim Breakdown: Finding Your Fit
CX-90 PHEV GS
The entry PHEV trim includes eight-passenger seating, 19-inch silver metallic alloy wheels, roof rails, and LED lighting front and rear. Standard i-Activsense safety features cover Smart Brake Support (front), Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, and Driver Attention Alert. The GS targets budget-conscious families who want PHEV efficiency without paying for luxury upgrades.
Best for: Families prioritizing maximum seating capacity over premium materials.
CX-90 PHEV GS-L
The GS-L upgrades to seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs, adds a power sunroof, heated steering wheel, and hands-free power liftgate. Wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB-C ports (two per row) improve convenience for tech-dependent families. Exterior changes include silver metallic 19-inch wheels and bright finish rocker panel accents.
Best for: Families who want easier third-row access and wireless charging without jumping to the top trim.
CX-90 PHEV GT
The GT brings 21-inch machine-cut alloy wheels, Nappa leather seating (black or Pure White), ventilated front seats, and a 1,500-watt AC power outlet in the cargo area. The 12.3-inch touchscreen display replaces the 10.25-inch unit, adding touch capability when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. New for 2025, GT adds Cruise and Traffic Support, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering for semi-automated highway driving.
Safety upgrades include a 360° View Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and Smart Brake Support Rear Crossing. The windshield wiper de-icer and automatic power-folding mirrors improve cold-weather usability—critical for Ontario winters.
Best for: Families who drive frequently on Highway 401 and want advanced driver assistance plus premium interior materials.
Comparing the CX-90 PHEV to Other Three-Row Options
|
Feature |
Mazda CX-90 PHEV |
Toyota Highlander Hybrid |
Honda Pilot |
|
Powertrain |
2.5 L PHEV + electric motor |
2.5 L hybrid (no plug-in) |
3.5 L V6 (gas only) |
|
System Output |
323 hp / 369 lb-ft |
243 hp / TBD torque |
280 hp / 262 lb-ft |
|
Electric-Only Range |
Yes (battery-dependent) |
No |
No |
|
Towing Capacity |
1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) |
2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) |
2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) |
|
Seating |
7 or 8 |
7 or 8 |
7 or 8 |
|
AWD |
Standard i-Activ AWD |
Standard AWD |
Available AWD |
The CX-90 PHEV trades maximum towing capacity for plug-in capability. Families who rarely tow more than 1,588 kg benefit from daily electric-only driving and lower fuel costs. The Highlander Hybrid offers better towing but lacks plug-in range, meaning you can't complete short trips on electricity alone. The Pilot provides strong V6 power but no electrification, resulting in higher fuel costs over time.
Charging at Home and on the Road
The CX-90 PHEV supports two charging levels:
- Level 1 (120V household outlet): 6.4 hours (20% to 80% state of charge)
- Level 2 (240V home charger): 1.3 hours (20% to 80% state of charge)
Most Scarborough families install a Level 2 home charger in their garage or driveway, reducing overnight charging time to under 90 minutes. This ensures the vehicle starts each day with a full battery, maximizing electric-only driving. Public Level 2 chargers are widely available across the GTA at shopping centres, municipal parking lots, and workplaces, providing top-up charging during longer outings.
Cold-weather note: In low temperatures, the engine may start automatically to heat the passenger cabin even with a fully charged battery. This ensures interior comfort during Ontario winters but reduces the percentage of driving completed on electricity alone. Preheating the cabin while plugged in (using the MyMazda app) minimizes this effect by warming the interior before departure.
Which CX-90 PHEV Trim is Right for You?
Choose GS if: You need maximum seating (eight passengers) and want the lowest upfront cost. The GS includes all essential safety and convenience features without luxury extras.
Choose GS-L if: You prefer second-row captain's chairs for easier third-row access, value wireless smartphone connectivity, and want a heated steering wheel and power liftgate. The GS-L balances features and cost for most families.
Choose GT if: You drive frequently on highways and want advanced driver assistance (Cruise and Traffic Support), prefer premium Nappa leather seating, and need the 1,500-watt AC power outlet for tailgating or camping. The GT maximizes comfort and technology.
Reserve Your CX-90 PHEV at Scarboro Mazda
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV delivers three-row space and plug-in efficiency in one package. For Scarborough families managing daily commutes, school runs, and weekend trips, it offers measurable fuel savings without compromising winter capability or cargo room. Visit Scarboro Mazda in Scarborough to explore current inventory and schedule a test drive that includes electric-only operation and highway performance.
