The 2026 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid won two categories in U.S. News & World Report’s inaugural Best Adventure Vehicles Awards, taking Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Road Trips and Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Camping. The new program ranks vehicles across off-road, road trip, and camping use, with the road trip and camping categories weighing fuel economy, interior space, versatility, and comfort. Mazda North American Operations said the three-row SUV earned the recognition for its balance of efficiency and capability across several types of adventure use.
Highlights
- Won Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Road Trips and Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for Camping
- Recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s inaugural Best Adventure Vehicles Awards
- Program spans four segments: off-road trucks, off-road SUVs, road trip vehicles, and camping vehicles
- Carries the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation
Two Category Wins for the CX-90 PHEV
The recognition places Mazda’s three-row plug-in hybrid SUV at the top of two of the program’s travel-focused segments.
“We created the Best Adventure Vehicles awards in response to growing enthusiasm for vehicles that support a wide range of travel lifestyles, from trail driving to extended road trips and camping,” said John Vincent, U.S. News senior editor, vehicle testing. “The CX-90 PHEV stood out for its balance of efficiency, comfort, and capability, making it a strong fit for multiple types of adventure use.”
“Mazda is proud to see the CX-90 PHEV recognized in these adventure-focused categories,” said Mazda North American Operations President and CEO Tom Donnelly. “It’s a vehicle designed to give drivers confidence and flexibility, whether they are on a long road trip or heading out for a weekend outdoors.”
How Are the Adventure Awards Judged?
The program evaluates vehicles across four segments, with criteria tailored to each. Off-road categories weigh factors such as all-terrain tires, locking differentials, and approach and departure angles. The road trip and camping categories assess fuel economy, interior space, versatility, and comfort, and factor in each vehicle’s overall score from the U.S. News Best Cars rankings as a measure of quality.
Continued Safety Recognition
The CX-90 PHEV also carries the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation, which, the company says, reinforces its standing as one of the safest three-row SUVs available.
Sign up for our popular weekly email to catch all the latest EV news!
