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All-wheel drive sits near the top of the wish list for many Canadian drivers, and Mazda makes it easy to find. Four of Mazda’s six 2026 model lines in Canada come with i-Activ AWD on every single trim, from the compact CX-30 to the three-row CX-90. The Mazda3 sedan and Mazda3 Sport hatchback offer AWD on their upper trims, including the 250-hp GT Turbo.
That leaves just one model without AWD: the MX-5 roadster, which stays rear-wheel drive by design. This guide breaks down every 2026 Mazda by drivetrain, trim and engine, so you can see exactly where AWD comes standard, where it is an option and which model fits your needs.
| Model | AWD Status | Trims With AWD |
| CX-30 | Standard on every trim | GX, GS, GS Kuro, GT, GT Kuro |
| CX-5 | Standard on every trim | GX, GS, GT |
| CX-70 Mild Hybrid | Standard on every trim | GS-L, GT, GT-P, Signature |
| CX-70 Plug-In Hybrid | Standard on every trim | GS-SC, GS-L SC, GT, Signature |
| CX-90 Mild Hybrid | Standard on every trim | GS, GS-L, GT, GT-P, Signature |
| CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid | Standard on every trim | GS, GS-L, GT, Signature |
| Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport | Available | GS with Luxury Package, GT (automatic), GT Turbo (standard) |
| MX-5 and MX-5 RF | Rear-wheel drive only | Not offered |
Every 2026 CX-30 comes with standard i-Activ AWD, which Mazda builds to deliver confident grip through snow, rain and gravel. For 2026, all CX-30 models also gain updated dampers for a smoother ride and a brake limited-slip differential for extra traction. G-Vectoring Control Plus and Off-Road Traction Assist are standard on every trim.
The CX-30 offers two engines. The 2.5 L 4-cylinder makes 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel. The GT and GT Kuro can step up to the 2.5 L turbo 4-cylinder, which makes 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium 93-octane fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular 87-octane fuel.
The all-new 2026 CX-5 also includes i-Activ AWD on every trim. Its 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine makes 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque and pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Mi-Drive lets you choose Normal, Sport or Off-Road mode, and G-Vectoring Control Plus now works with an electronic brake limited-slip differential for better traction in tough conditions. With 954 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, the CX-5 gives you room for gear without moving up a size.
The CX-70 and CX-90 share Mazda’s Large Platform, an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD on every trim. Both also use Kinematic Posture Control, which reduces body lift in tight corners for steadier handling. The CX-70 seats five in two rows, while the CX-90 seats up to eight across three rows.
Both SUVs offer a choice between a mild hybrid 6-cylinder and a plug-in hybrid. The mild hybrid models use the M Hybrid Boost 48-volt system, while the plug-in hybrids can drive on electric power alone for daily trips.
The 2026 Mazda3 sedan and Mazda3 Sport hatchback come standard with front-wheel drive. Buyers who want AWD can choose it on three configurations:
AWD on the Mazda3 requires the 6-speed automatic transmission. The 6-speed manual, offered only on the Mazda3 Sport GT, pairs with front-wheel drive for drivers who want to shift for themselves.
The 2026 MX-5 is the one Mazda built around rear-wheel drive. Every trim, from the soft top GS, GS-P and GT to the MX-5 RF GS-P and GT, sends power to the rear wheels. That layout is central to the two-seat roadster’s balanced, playful handling, so Mazda keeps it that way across the lineup.
Start with how many people you carry. Singles and couples who want an easy-to-park SUV will feel at home in the CX-30, especially with the turbo engine on the GT trims. Small families who need more rear-seat and cargo space should look at the CX-5, which gives every buyer AWD from the base GX up.
Need more power or more seats? The CX-70 suits drivers who want two rows and a 6-cylinder or plug-in hybrid powertrain. The CX-90 is the right pick for larger families, with seating for up to eight and real towing ability. If you prefer a sedan or hatchback, the Mazda3 GS with Luxury Package, GT and GT Turbo give you AWD in a lower, sportier package.
The fastest way to find your AWD match is to drive a few models in one visit. Book a test drive at Planète Mazda in Mirabel, and our team will help you compare the CX-30, CX-5, CX-70, CX-90 and Mazda3 side by side.
