Tustin Mazda - Is i-Activ AWD® Standard on the 2026 Mazda CX-90 in Tustin, CA?
Every 2026 Mazda CX-90 that arrives at Tustin Mazda includes i-Activ AWD® as standard equipment, a confidence booster that pays off every day in Tustin, CA, and across Orange County. Rather than waiting for wheelspin, Mazda designed i-Activ AWD® to stay engaged and proactively monitor vehicle dynamics in real time, then distribute torque to the wheels that can use it best. The result is reassuring traction pulling away from damp intersections, poised lane changes on the I-5, and predictable handling on a quick drive up Santiago Canyon Road.
Mazda’s approach is elegantly simple for drivers and highly sophisticated under the skin. The system continuously watches for subtle changes in wheel load and grip that most drivers would never notice, then makes micro-adjustments you can feel as smooth stability. This balance-first philosophy is a perfect match for the CX-90’s finely tuned chassis and Kinematic Posture Control, helping a three-row SUV feel composed on tight city streets and planted on fast freeway transitions.
Because AWD is standard, you can choose your preferred powertrain with confidence. CX-90 3.3 Turbo models use the e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine rated at up to 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, while 3.3 Turbo S models are tuned to deliver up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque when using recommended premium fuel. All pair with a responsive SKYACTIV®-Drive 8-Speed Automatic Transmission with manual-shift mode, so merging onto the SR-55 or passing on Highway 1 feels seamless and controlled.
For shoppers who want electric flexibility, the CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV adds a usable 27-mile electric range for short trips while maintaining the traction benefits of i-Activ AWD®. Around-town errands can be handled with primarily electric driving, and longer weekend routes combine combustion and electric power without compromising the system’s all-weather confidence. When equipped properly, the CX-90 also supports a Towing mode within Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), and towing capability ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds with a Mazda tow hitch.
Mi-Drive is a great example of how standard AWD integrates with the rest of the CX-90. With Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing modes, the SUV adapts to your day. Normal emphasizes smooth efficiency for school drop-offs near Tustin Ranch. Sport sharpens responses for a more engaging run toward the coast. Off-Road helps maintain traction on graded dirt or gravel, like access roads to local trailheads. And Towing tailors throttle and shift mapping for a steadier feel with a trailer attached.
Beyond traction, the 2026 CX-90 surrounds you with technology that supports confident driving. Standard and available i-Activsense® safety features, such as Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Lane-keep Assist, help increase awareness. CX-90 and CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV models have earned a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+, and prior model year CX-90 variants have also received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA. Features like the available 360° View Monitor with See-through View and Trailer Hitch View and standard Rear Seat Alert bring everyday peace of mind to family life around Tustin.
Inside, the CX-90’s harmonious cabin makes every trip more rewarding. Available Nappa leather-trimmed seating, an available Bose® sound system, and conveniently placed USB-C outlets in the second and third rows keep passengers comfortable and connected. Mazda Connected Services and the MyMazda App add useful touches like Remote Engine Start, vehicle status, and remote door lock and unlock, while Apple CarPlay® integration, Android Auto™ integration, and Bluetooth® connectivity simplify your routine.
If you are considering a new three-row SUV for life in and around Tustin, the fact that AWD is included on every 2026 CX-90 simplifies your decision. You can focus on the seating layout that fits your family, the color that suits your style—Rhodium White Premium, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, or Jet Black Mica—and the powertrain that matches your driving. Our team at Tustin Mazda can help you compare trims, demonstrate Mi-Drive modes on a test loop that includes city streets and freeway segments, and walk you through accessories such as roof rack crossbars or a tow hitch to tailor your CX-90 to your plans.
- Confident starts and stops on wet pavement across Tustin
- Stable freeway merges and lane changes during busy commutes
- Calm poise on winding roads toward the foothills
- Added security for family road trips in changing weather
When you are ready to experience how i-Activ AWD® enhances everyday driving, visit us at Tustin Mazda, serving Irvine, Aliso Viejo, and Lake Forest, CA. Our product specialists can show you how the system feels in real time, explain which Mi-Drive mode fits your route, and help you choose a CX-90 that brings harmony to every mile.
- Schedule a test drive that includes surface streets and freeway speeds
- Explore Mi-Drive and feel the differences among Normal, Sport, and Off-Road
- Bring the family to check third-row access and cargo flexibility
- Ask about accessories and service support for long-term confidence
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is i-Activ AWD® standard on every 2026 Mazda CX-90?
Yes. Every 2026 Mazda CX-90—Inline 6 Turbo and Plug-In Hybrid EV—comes with i-Activ AWD® as standard equipment. The system stays engaged and proactively balances torque for predictable, confident handling.
Does the CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV also use i-Activ AWD®?
Yes. The CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid EV integrates i-Activ AWD® with its electrified powertrain, so you get electric driving capability for short trips plus the same all-weather traction advantages across Orange County.
How does Mi-Drive interact with i-Activ AWD®?
Mi-Drive tailors throttle mapping, transmission behavior, and AWD torque distribution to the selected mode. Normal emphasizes balance, Sport quickens responses, Off-Road helps maintain traction on loose surfaces, and available Towing supports steadier control with a trailer.
Are there power differences that affect how AWD feels?
All CX-90 models benefit from standard i-Activ AWD®. 3.3 Turbo models provide up to 280 hp and 332 lb-ft, while 3.3 Turbo S models are tuned up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft when using recommended premium fuel. The added output in Turbo S trims enhances acceleration, while AWD continues to focus on smooth, predictable grip.
What fuel economy can I expect from the Inline 6 models?
2026 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo and Turbo S models have EPA-estimated mileage of 23 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. Actual results will vary with driving conditions, vehicle load, and driving style.