Bob Penkhus Mazda South - Is i-Activ AWD® Standard on the 2026 Mazda CX-90 and Why Does It Matter for Pueblo, CO Drivers?
For families and adventurers alike, traction can make or break confidence on the road. That’s why one of the most common questions shoppers ask is whether the 2026 Mazda CX-90 includes all-wheel drive as standard—and what difference it makes in everyday driving around Pueblo, CO. The answer is yes: every CX-90 features i-Activ AWD®, Mazda’s predictive, always-engaged all-wheel-drive system engineered to enhance stability and control before wheel slip occurs. It continuously analyzes vehicle dynamics and driver inputs, adjusting torque distribution so the SUV feels planted on dry pavement and more sure-footed when the weather turns.
In real-world terms, i-Activ AWD® proves its worth from the first mile. Commuters appreciate smooth, secure takeoffs at damp intersections. Parents feel more in control when switching from clear streets to wind-swept overpasses that collect grit and sand. Weekend explorers benefit on graded dirt roads and trailhead parking, where the surface can be rutted or uneven. Pair this traction with Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive)—Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing—and you can tailor the 2026 Mazda CX-90’s behavior to match your route. It’s traction tuned to feel natural, not intrusive, and it brings an added layer of reassurance when conditions change mid-drive.
- Predictive traction: i-Activ AWD® monitors wheel loads and driver inputs to distribute torque proactively.
- Multiple drive modes: Mi-Drive lets you toggle Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing for adaptable control.
- Balanced performance: The e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic deliver smooth, responsive power that complements AWD confidence.
- Added visibility: The available 360° View Monitor with See-through View helps in tight lots and on uneven surfaces near trailheads.
On cold mornings, you’ll notice composed launches with fewer steering corrections, and on long highway stretches, the CX-90’s rear-biased dynamics make it feel poised and stable. In Off-Road mode, throttle and traction control calibrations help you maintain momentum on loose surfaces without making the SUV feel jittery or harsh. If you plan to tow a small boat or pop-up camper, the available Towing mode works with i-Activ AWD® to help improve control and stability when properly equipped with a tow hitch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does i-Activ AWD® reduce efficiency?
The system is designed to be predictive and efficient, engaging proactively without the constant drag associated with some traditional AWD systems. It’s tuned to balance confident traction with everyday efficiency.
Is Off-Road mode only for difficult trails?
Off-Road mode optimizes traction and throttle control for gravel, dirt, or uneven surfaces. It’s just as useful in a rutted parking area near a trailhead as it is on a forest road.
What else should I add for winter driving?
Consider winter-rated tires for the best cold-weather grip, along with accessories like all-weather floor mats. Available features, such as the 360° View Monitor with See-through View, can make navigating snowy lots easier.
For personalized guidance, Bob Penkhus Mazda South offers tailored test drives that highlight i-Activ AWD® and Mi-Drive in real conditions. Our team is knowledgeable about local routes and can walk you through trim differences, seating options, and safety features that suit your routine. We’re proudly serving Pueblo, Fountain, and Castle Rock with a customer-first approach—so you can focus on choosing the configuration that fits your life and loved ones. If traction, comfort, and technology matter to you, the 2026 CX-90 brings it all together with confidence.
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Mazda CX-90
