CX-90 PHEV: Built For SoCal Road Trips

At Tustin Mazda, part of Patterson Autos here in Tustin, we have seen firsthand why the Mazda CX-90 PHEV has quickly become a favorite plug-in hybrid SUV for Southern California drivers who love to road trip and camp. When U.S. News & World Report named the CX-90 PHEV a winner in its 2026 Best Adventure Vehicles Awards, specifically in the road-trip and camping categories, it simply confirmed what our customers have already been experiencing on the highways and campgrounds of Orange County and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• CX-90 PHEV was named Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Road Trips and Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Camping by U.S. News & World Report.
• U.S. News highlighted its balance of efficiency, comfort, and capability, ideal for long drives and weekend getaways.
• Plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers strong horsepower with all-electric range for local errands and flexible gas-electric range for extended trips.
• Three-row seating, generous cargo versatility, and available towing up to 3,500 pounds support family camping gear and small trailers.
• Advanced Mazda technology, including i-Activsense safety systems, helps provide confidence on crowded freeways and winding mountain roads.

Why Did U.S. News Pick The CX-90 PHEV For Road Trips?

U.S. News & World Report created its Best Adventure Vehicles Awards to recognize models that genuinely support different travel lifestyles, including extended road trips. In the road-trip category, judges focused on fuel economy, interior space, comfort, and overall quality scores, all areas where the CX-90 PHEV excels.

Under the hood, the CX-90 PHEV uses an e-Skyactiv plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor to produce around 323 horsepower and robust torque. That power is matched with an estimated all-electric driving range in the mid‑20‑mile range and a total combined range near 500 miles, so you can commute locally in EV mode during the week, then head up the coast or out to the desert without constantly searching for a charger. For many Tustin drivers, that blend of efficiency and performance is what makes this Mazda one of the best adventure vehicles in the plug-in hybrid space.

How Does The CX-90 PHEV Make Camping Easier Around Southern California?

For camping, U.S. News evaluated factors like interior versatility, cargo room, and comfort, which are critical when you are loading tents, coolers, and family gear. The CX-90 PHEV offers three-row seating, flexible configurations for six or seven passengers depending on trim, and a cargo area that can be expanded by folding the rear rows, giving you plenty of space for camping equipment, hiking packs, or even inflatable paddleboards.

When properly equipped, the CX-90 PHEV can tow up to 3,500 pounds, enough for a small camper, lightweight toy hauler, or a pair of jet skis for a weekend at the lake. Standard all-wheel drive and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) give you the traction and drive modes you want when you leave the pavement for forest roads or gravel campground loops. That mix of towing, capability, and thoughtful packaging is a big reason the CX-90 PHEV stood out in the camping category.

What Mazda Technology Helps On Long Drives From Tustin?

Mazda has built the CX-90 PHEV around driver-focused technology that makes long stints on Interstate 5 or scenic drives toward the mountains more relaxing. Inside, features like available leather seating, a panoramic roof, and a large infotainment display create an upscale, comfortable environment that feels at home cruising between beach towns or sitting in Orange County traffic.

On the safety side, i-Activsense driver-assistance features play a key role in making this SUV a smart choice for family getaways. Available systems such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, adaptive cruise-style functionality, lane-keeping support, and available 360‑degree view monitoring provide extra awareness when you are changing lanes, backing into a tight campsite, or navigating crowded trailhead parking. The CX-90 PHEV has also earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which reinforces its reputation as one of the safest three-row SUVs on the market.

Why Is The CX-90 PHEV A Smart Choice For Southern California Drivers?

For many drivers searching for cars for sale in Tustin or across southern California, daily life includes a mix of short, stop‑and‑go commutes and longer weekend drives. The plug-in hybrid format fits that pattern: you can use the electric range for errands around Irvine or Costa Mesa, then rely on the gas engine and large overall range when you point the SUV toward the mountains, desert, or central coast.

At the same time, the CX-90 PHEV offers the upscale driving dynamics and refined interior that Mazda is known for, so it feels as rewarding on a solo drive down Pacific Coast Highway as it does with a full family and camping gear onboard. As part of Patterson Autos, Tustin Mazda has spent years helping local drivers match their lifestyle to the right vehicle, and we see a growing number of shoppers asking for efficient, three-row SUVs that can handle both daily duties and bigger adventures. If you are comparing adventure-ready SUVs or looking for an affordable SUV in southern California with advanced technology, the CX-90 PHEV belongs on your short list.

Midway through your research, this is a great time to explore our current selection of CX-90 PHEV models in stock, browse trim and feature differences, or even schedule a test drive so you can feel the plug-in hybrid powertrain and i-Activsense technologies on the streets around Tustin. Our team is happy to walk through charging options, road-trip planning, and how the CX-90 PHEV compares with other Mazda SUVs for your specific commute and weekend plans.

Ready To Experience The CX-90 PHEV At Tustin Mazda?

If you are planning more road trips, camping weekends, or family adventures, the U.S. News & World Report award is a strong signal that the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is worth a closer look. With its blend of plug-in hybrid efficiency, three-row versatility, towing capability, and advanced i-Activsense safety, this SUV delivers the confident, flexible performance southern California drivers are looking for.

Tustin Mazda, part of Patterson Autos here in Tustin, CA, invites you to explore our available models on our lot, check out our current CX-90 PHEV inventory, and take a test drive to see how it fits your next adventure, from local beach runs to longer camping trips. Visit us at our Tustin location or start your shopping online to find the CX-90 PHEV that matches your needs and be ready when the next road-trip or campsite calls.

*Penned by AI, polished by humans