The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is the newest model in Mazda’s lineup. Replacing the CX-9, the midsize three-row CX-90 is the largest Mazda SUV. It offers several trims, numerous options, and even a plug-in hybrid version. Here’s a look at the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trim that shoppers are choosing the most often. 

Overview of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trims

Mazda offers three CX-90 PHEV trims. The base model is the Preferred, starting at about $47,500. The mid-range Premium goes for around $53,000. Finally, the range-topping Premium Plus retails for about $57,000. That’s nearly $10,000 more than the standard PHEV.

All PHEV trims have the same powertrain. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 68-kW electric motor harness 323 hp. The electric motor pairs with a 17.8-kWh battery, allowing the SUV to go 25 miles in battery-only mode. In hybrid mode, all trims get 56 MPGe combined.

The main differences among the three trims are in their interiors. The standard CX-90 PHEV has wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the higher trims boast wireless connectivity. The standard CX-90 PHEV seats eight, but the higher trims accommodate seven passengers. In addition, the top touts luxuries like heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 360-degree camera system. 

What is the most popular 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trim?

According to Edmunds, the Premium is the most popular 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trim. This mid-level option provides more amenities than the standard model but fewer than the top trim. Like the highest trim, the Premium seats seven instead of eight. 

As for features like heated seats and leather upholstery, the Premium is about the same as the base model. All CX-90 PHEV trims have a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster display. However, the base model and the Premium have a 10.25-inch infotainment screen — smaller than the 12.3-inch version in the top trim.

But the Premium has a navigation system, which the base model doesn’t have. The Premium also boasts more advanced driver-assistance systems. They include traffic sign recognition, front and rear parking sensors, a more advanced version of the automaker’s adaptive cruise control, and more.

There are exterior design differences too. The most noticeable are the wheels, with the Premium riding on 21-inch wheels instead of the standard 19-inch ones. 

Why are car shoppers more interested in the Premium trim?

It’s not entirely apparent why the Premium is the most popular 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV trim, but a likely explanation is its value for the price. This PHEV isn’t cheap, and most consumers want plenty when paying around $50,000 for a family hauler.

Shoppers interested in such an SUV likely want to get the most bang for their buck. They might not think the $57,000 top trim is worth the expense, but the $53,000 middle trim provides an attractive balance of features for the price.