The Mazda CX-90 is a three-row midsize SUV produced from the 2024 model year to the present. It replaced the Mazda CX-9 in the brand’s lineup and is offered in two distinct powertrain configurations: a 3.3-liter inline-six turbocharged engine and a plug-in hybrid electric powertrain (PHEV).
This guide covers towing specifications year by year, including maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, gross combination weight rating (GCWR), tongue weight limits, and hitch requirements for each available powertrain configuration. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits is necessary to protect the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components from excessive stress.
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2026 Mazda CX-90 Towing Capacity
2026 Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo (280 hp / 332 lb-ft); 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo S (340 hp / 369 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – upper trims with Towing Mode and Genuine Mazda hitch |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Select and Preferred trims without Towing Mode |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 2,145 lbs (973 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Up to 10,304 lbs (4,674 kg) – large tow spec; 8,615 lbs (3,908 kg) – standard spec |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 500-750 lbs (227-340 kg) at max tow |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch + Mi-Drive Towing Mode required for 5,000 lb rating) |
2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cylinder + 68 kW electric motor (e-SKYACTIV PHEV); 323 hp total system output |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – all trims when properly equipped |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approximately 1,611 lbs (731 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual for configuration-specific values |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 350-525 lbs (159-238 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch required) |
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when fitted with a Genuine Mazda tow hitch and the available Towing Mode via the Mi-Drive system. The PHEV configuration is rated to tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) across all trim levels when properly equipped. Towing Mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and stability control calibration to maintain control under trailer load.
2025 Mazda CX-90 Towing Capacity
2025 Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo (280 hp / 332 lb-ft); 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo S (340 hp / 369 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Preferred Plus and above with Towing Mode and Genuine Mazda hitch |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Select and Preferred trims |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 2,145 lbs (973 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Up to 10,304 lbs (4,674 kg) – large tow spec; 8,615 lbs (3,908 kg) – standard spec |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 500-750 lbs (227-340 kg) at max tow |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch + Mi-Drive Towing Mode) |
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cylinder + 68 kW electric motor (e-SKYACTIV PHEV); 323 hp total system output |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – all trims when properly equipped |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approximately 1,611 lbs (731 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual for configuration-specific values |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 350-525 lbs (159-238 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch required) |
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 shares its towing architecture with the prior model year, maintaining a peak rating of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) for upper trims equipped with Towing Mode and the available Genuine Mazda hitch. The PHEV variant carries a 5,243 lb (2,379 kg) curb weight, which reduces available payload compared to the lighter Inline-6 models. Tongue weight must remain within 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight, as specified in the owner’s manual, to maintain proper axle loading.
2024 Mazda CX-90 Towing Capacity
2024 Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo (280 hp / 332 lb-ft); 3.3L e-SKYACTIV G Inline-6 Turbo S (340 hp / 369 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – upper trims with Towing Mode and Genuine Mazda hitch |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Select and Preferred trims |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,519 to 2,145 lbs (689 to 973 kg) depending on configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Up to 10,304 lbs (4,674 kg) – large tow spec; 8,615 lbs (3,908 kg) – standard spec |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 350-750 lbs (159-340 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch + Mi-Drive Towing Mode required for 5,000 lb rating) |
2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Towing Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cylinder + 68 kW electric motor (e-SKYACTIV PHEV); 323 hp total system output |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-Activ, rear-biased) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – all trims when properly equipped |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approximately 1,611 lbs (731 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | GVWR: 6,854 lbs (3,109 kg); refer to owner’s manual for full GCWR |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 10-15% of trailer weight; approx. 350-525 lbs (159-238 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch required) |
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 was the first production year for this nameplate, replacing the CX-9, and introduced the 3.3-liter inline-six turbocharged engine to the model’s lineup. Inline-6 models with the factory tow hitch and active Towing Mode achieve the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), while the Select and Preferred trims are limited to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) due to the absence of Towing Mode. Front GAWR is rated at 2,784 to 2,806 lbs (1,263 to 1,273 kg) depending on wheel size, while rear GAWR reaches 3,640 to 3,735 lbs (1,651 to 1,694 kg).
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
Equipping the Mazda CX-90 correctly before towing is as important as knowing the rated towing limits. The sections below cover the key components needed for safe, within-specification towing.
Tow Package Requirements
The Mazda CX-90 requires a Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch to achieve its full 5,000 lb towing rating on Inline-6 models. Aftermarket hitches are not specified by the manufacturer for activating Towing Mode, and using an unapproved hitch may void the towing rating. The Mi-Drive Towing Mode adjusts engine response, transmission behavior, and Electronic Stability Control parameters when a trailer is connected.
Trailer Brake Controller
Trailers exceeding a certain weight threshold require an integrated or portable electronic trailer brake controller. This device proportionally applies the trailer’s brakes in sync with the tow vehicle during deceleration, reducing stopping distance and preventing trailer sway. Consult the owner’s manual and local regulations to determine when a trailer brake controller is required.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A standard ball mount hitch is sufficient for loads within the CX-90’s Class III rating at its shorter tongue length. For trailers approaching the upper weight limit, a weight-distributing hitch redistributes downward tongue weight across the tow vehicle’s axles to maintain level vehicle attitude and steering control.
Additional Equipment Considerations
Proper towing setup on the Mazda CX-90 also involves the following:
- Transmission cooler: Extended towing at or near maximum rated capacity generates additional heat in the transmission fluid. A supplemental transmission cooler reduces fluid temperature under sustained load.
- Tire load ratings: Verify that tire load ratings support the loaded vehicle weight before towing. Underinflated or underrated tires increase heat buildup and reduce stability.
- Trailer sway control: The CX-90 includes standard Trailer Stability Assist, which works in conjunction with Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control to reduce oscillation when towing.
- Tongue weight monitoring: Tongue weight must remain between 10 and 15 percent of total trailer weight to maintain proper front-to-rear axle weight distribution.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Normal Towing (Under 3,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (3,501-5,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch | Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch | Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch (required) |
| Towing Mode | Recommended | Required for rated capacity |
| Trailer Brakes | May not be required (check local laws) | Recommended; required in many jurisdictions |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not typically required | Recommended for loads above 3,500 lbs |
| Transmission Cooler | Standard cooling typically sufficient | Supplemental cooler advised for extended towing |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Mazda CX-90?
The maximum towing capacity of the Mazda CX-90 is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). This rating applies to Inline-6 Turbo models at the Preferred Plus trim level and above, when equipped with a Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch and the Mi-Drive Towing Mode. The PHEV configuration is rated to a maximum of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) across all trim levels.
How much can a Mazda CX-90 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package, consisting of the Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch and available Towing Mode, the Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Without Towing Mode or on base trim levels that do not offer it, the maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The tow package is not standard equipment and must be specified at the time of vehicle purchase or installed through a Mazda dealer.
Does drivetrain configuration affect Mazda CX-90 towing capacity?
The Mazda CX-90 is available exclusively with all-wheel drive (i-Activ AWD) across all trims and powertrain configurations. Since no front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive variant is offered, drivetrain selection does not alter the published towing ratings. Towing capacity differences are determined by trim level, powertrain type (Inline-6 versus PHEV), and the presence of the factory tow package.
What trailer weight is safe for a Mazda CX-90?
The safe trailer weight for a Mazda CX-90 is any load at or below the manufacturer-rated towing capacity for the specific configuration owned. For Inline-6 models without Towing Mode, this is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). For properly equipped upper trims, it extends to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Payload capacity must also be factored in, since passengers, cargo, and hitch weight reduce the available towing margin.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Mazda CX-90?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for trailers under 3,500 lbs on the Mazda CX-90. For loads approaching 5,000 lbs, a weight-distributing hitch is recommended to restore proper axle weight distribution and reduce front-end lift caused by tongue weight pressing down on the rear hitch receiver. Consult the owner’s manual and the hitch manufacturer’s specifications before selecting a weight-distribution system.
What is the tongue weight limit on the Mazda CX-90?
The Mazda CX-90 owner’s manual specifies that tongue weight must remain between 10 and 15 percent of total trailer weight. At the maximum 5,000 lb towing rating, this translates to a tongue weight range of approximately 500 to 750 lbs (227 to 340 kg). At the 3,500 lb rating, the acceptable tongue weight range is approximately 350 to 525 lbs (159 to 238 kg). Exceeding tongue weight limits affects rear axle loading, steering precision, and braking performance.
Conclusion
The Mazda CX-90 provides a towing capacity range of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across the 2024, 2025, and 2026 model years. The maximum 5,000 lb rating is exclusive to Inline-6 Turbo configurations at Preferred Plus and higher trim levels equipped with the Genuine Mazda Tow Hitch and Mi-Drive Towing Mode. The PHEV variant maintains a consistent 3,500 lb towing limit across all trims and model years. Engine type, trim selection, and tow package availability are the three primary factors that determine towing capacity in the CX-90 lineup. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual and vehicle door pillar label before towing heavy loads.
