The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has been getting a lot of attention in recent months since it arrived on the market. Packed with features and offering three-row versatility and a stunning design, the CX-90 also stands out with its multiple technical innovations. Two such innovations are the MHEV (Mild-Hybrid Engine Vehicle) and PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Engine Vehicle) powertrains on the model. Both are first for Mazda vehicles in Canada. But what do these acronyms mean, and how do they enhance the Mazda driving experience? More importantly, which type of engine is right for you? That’s what we will explore here.

MHEV: Mild-Hybrid

What is an MHEV engine?

A mild-hybrid engine, as the name suggests, is a system that operates with a combination of a traditional internal combustion engine and a smaller electric battery. However, unlike full hybrids, the electric component in MHEVs is not designed to power the vehicle on its own.

How does the MHEV work in the 2024 Mazda CX-90?

The 3.3-litre inline 6-cylinder engine in the 2024 CX-90 is a powerhouse, being the most potent engine in the Mazda lineup. But its efficiency is further boosted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This system uses the battery to aid in delivering power, improving fuel economy. Additionally, it harnesses kinetic energy when the vehicle is coasting or braking to recharge the battery. This transition is seamless behind the wheel, but you do notice the impressive efficiency. The vehicle’s enhanced fuel efficiency (9.9 litres per 100 km in the city and 8.4 litres per 100 km on the highway) and improved torque are testament to the MHEV’s prowess. Plus, with between 3,500 pounds and 5,000 pounds of towing capacity depending on the trim, the mild-hybrid powertrain still delivers a ton of capability.

PHEV: Plug-In Hybrid

What is a PHEV?

A plug-in hybrid engine takes the hybrid concept a step further. It features a larger battery than mild-hybrids and can be charged from an external power source. This allows the vehicle to run solely on electric power for extended distances.

How does the PHEV work in the 2024 Mazda CX-90?

The CX-90 PHEV comes with a 17.8-kWh battery, granting it a substantial 100% electric range of 42 km. This means most of your daily trips could be completely fuel-free. Including the battery, the CX-90 PHEV boasts an average fuel consumption of just 4.2 litres per 100 km, and overall, it consumes about 9.4 litres per 100 km. With 323 horsepower and a torque of 369 pound-feet, it doesn’t compromise on power either and can tow 3,500 pounds.

Which Model is Right for You?

Choosing between the MHEV and PHEV depends on your driving habits and priorities:

Daily Commute & Driving PatternsIf most of your daily trips are short distances within the city, the PHEV model might be more economical in the long run due to its pure electric range even if the mild-hybrid powertrain is actually more efficient than the PHEV when the battery is depleted.
Charging InfrastructureIf you have access to charging facilities at home or work, and live in an area with a growing charging network, the PHEV will be more convenient.
Towing NeedsIf towing is a primary concern, consider the engine’s capacity and the model’s trim. While both versions offer a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, the MHEV’s most powerful trim can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Budget & IncentivesWhile PHEVs might have a higher upfront cost, Quebec EV rebates provide a total rebate of up to $5,000 while the Canadian iZEV program adds a rebate of up to $2,500. This can significantly reduce the price of the CX-90 PHEV. In other words, take this rebate into account when comparing the cost of both models.

In conclusion, both the MHEV and PHEV engines in the 2024 Mazda CX-90 showcase the strides Mazda is making in automotive innovation. Your choice between them should align with your driving habits, environmental priorities, and practical needs.

VIEW INVENTORY

2025 Mazda CX-90 MHEV

Mazda CX-90 MHEV

Lease starting at

^$124^**

weekly | 48 months | at 4.35%
with ^$3,035 cash down

Retail price

^$49,465^***

More details

▼Connected vehicle service is available for a 2-year trial period from your vehicle’s in-service date; a paid subscription is required upon expiry of the trial period. Available on MX-30, Mazda3, Mazda3 Sport, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, CX-50, CX-90 and CX-70. Requires MyMazda App (on a compatible smartphone), a working vehicle electrical system (including battery), wireless coverage and GPS satellite signal. Services, connectivity and capabilities vary by conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. See mazda.ca for details. Note: Remote start is not available on CX-90 PHEV and CX-70 PHEV. See mazda.ca for details. ▲$1,000/$1,000/$2,500/$2,500 Event Bonus (“Bonus”) is available on new and previously unregistered 2025 CX-90 MHEV/CX-70 MHEV/CX-90 PHEV/CX-70 PHEV models that are purchased or financed/leased (on approved credit) and delivered between April 1 – 30, 2025 from an authorized Mazda retailer in Canada. Bonus will be applied to the negotiated selling price of the eligible vehicle before taxes and: (i) has no cash surrender or other value; (ii) does not apply to fleet sales; and (iii) cannot be applied to past transactions. Conditions apply. See mazda.ca or your local Mazda retailer for details. †† Specifications and features, including engine and fuel economy, are not necessarily the same across all vehicle trim levels. For full details on trim level specifications and features, please visit vehicle pages on mazda.ca or contact your local Mazda dealer. ▲▲Get a bonus off the purchase of a Mazda Added Protection Plan with the purchase of a new and previously unregistered model between April 1-30, 2025, as follows: (i) $500 Bonus: 2024 or 2025 CX-5, CX-50; or (ii) $1000 Bonus: 2025 CX-70, 2024 or 2025 CX-90.The applicable discount will be applied to the selling price of the Mazda Added Protection Plan before taxes and: (i) has no cash surrender or other value; (ii) does not apply to fleet sales; and (iii) cannot be applied to past transactions. Conditions apply. See mazda.ca or your local Mazda Retailer for details. Certain limitations apply. Battery life affected by cold weather. See mazda.ca for more details. *To learn more about the Mazda Unlimited Warranty, go to mazdaunlimited.ca. ■Limited time finance offer provided through Mazda Financial Services on approved credit. Representative finance offer based on a new and previously unregistered 2025 CX-90 MHEV Signature model (WXKG85AA00). Vehicle Price is $66,497.35. 2.9% finance APR for 36 months. Monthly payment is $1,930.89, which includes: $2,195 freight and PDE; $100 A/C charge; regulatory fees (up to $12.50); retailer administration fee (up to $795); lien registration fees (up to $$58.85, including lien registering agent fee); as well as all other applicable fees, levies and duties (all of which may vary by region and retailer). 36 monthly payments required. Licence; insurance; registration; and applicable taxes are extra. $0 down payment or equivalent trade-in required. Cost of borrowing is $3,014.84 for a total obligation of $69,512.19. Retailer may sell for less. Retailer order/trade may be necessary (but may not be available in all cases). Conditions apply. Offer ends April 30, 2025, and is subject to change or cancellation without notice. Visit mazda.ca or your Mazda Retailer for more information. ***Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda3 Sedan GX (DVXL85 AA00)is $28,465. Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda3 Sedan Sport GX (SVXL85 AA00) is $29,215. Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-30 GX (ZXXL85 AA00) is $32,615. Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-5 GX (NXXL85 AA00) is $36,215. Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-50 GS-L 2025 AWD (JXLN85AA00) is $43,415. Purchase price, based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-50 GS-L Hybrid (MXLH85AA00) is $46,415. Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-90 GS AWD MHEV (WXSF85) is $49,465. Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-90 GS 4RM PHEV (VXSP85) is $58,065. Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-70 GS-L AWD MHEV (XXLF85) is $52,915. Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda CX-70 GS-L X4RM PHEV (YXLP85) is $62,315. Suggested Retail Price, for new 2025 Mazda MX-5 GS (L2SK65) is $38,665. †Offer valid for monthly lease of a new base-model Mazda3 Sedan GX 2025 (DVXL85 AA00) / Mazda3 Sport GX 2025 (SVXL85AA00) / Mazda CX-30 GX 2025 (ZXXL85 AA00) / Mazda CX-5 GX 2025 (NXXL85 AA00) / Mazda CX-50 GS-L 2025 4RM (JXLN85AA00) / Mazda CX-50 GS-L Hybrid 2025 (MXLH85AA00) / Mazda CX-90 GS 2025 4RM MHEV (WXSF85) / Mazda CX-90 GS 4RM PHEV 2025 (VXSP85) / Mazda CX-70 GS-L 2025 4RM MHEV (XXLF85) / Mazda CX-70 GS-L 4RM PHEV 2025 (YXLP85) / MX-5 GS 2025 (L2SK65) priced at $28,465 / $29,215 $/ $32,615 / $36,215 / $43,415/ $46,415 / $49,465 / $58,065 /$52,915 / $62,315 / $38,665, equivalent to 48 / 48 / 48 / 48 / 48/ 48/ 48/ 48/ 48/ 48 monthly payments of $368/ $385/ $411 / $429 / $498 / $560 / $535 / $625/ $586 / $689/ $474 with $1,750 / $1,435 / $1,585 / $2,565 / $2,165 / $2,645 / $3,035 / $3,035 / $3,035/ $3,035/ $425 down, includes freight and P.D.E. of $2,095 / $2,095 / $2,195 / $2,195 / $2,195 / 2,195 / $2,195 / $2,195 / $2,195 / $2,195 / $2,095 as well as $100 Air Conditioning charge (all models). 20,000 km/year kilometer allowance; charge of $0.08 per excess kilometer. Payments cannot be made on a weekly basis and are shown for informational purposes only. Registration, license, insurance, the specific duty on new tires ($22,5), taxes and down payment (if applicable) are extra and may be required at the time of purchase Retailer order/trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid April 1 – 30, 2025, while supplies last. Lease and finance on approved credit for qualified customers only. Offers subject to change without notice. Visit mazda.ca or see your retailer for complete details.

* Photo for illustrative purposes only. Certain conditions apply.

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