Highway 401 Mastery: How the Mazda CX-90's Inline-6 Delivers Confident Passing Power in Ontario

Highway 401 demands more than just a capable engine—it requires confidence. Whether you're navigating the express lanes through Toronto's west end or maintaining speed on the long stretches between Woodstock and London, the ability to accelerate smoothly past transport trucks and merge decisively into fast-moving traffic separates a stressful commute from a composed one. The 2025 Mazda CX-90 answers this challenge with a 3.3-litre inline-6 turbocharged engine and i-Activ all-wheel drive, combining the torque needed for quick overtakes with the stability to stay planted when big rigs create crosswinds.

For Ontario drivers who regularly face Highway 401's mix of heavy commercial traffic, variable weather, and high-speed merges, the CX-90's powertrain delivers real-world advantages. The inline-6 configuration provides smooth, linear power delivery without the lag often found in smaller turbocharged engines, while the standard AWD system continuously monitors road conditions to distribute torque where it's needed most. This combination proves especially valuable during late-fall and early-winter driving, when wet pavement and sudden gusts from passing trucks test a vehicle's composure.

At a Glance: CX-90 Highway Performance Specs

Why the Inline-6 Matters on Highway 401

The CX-90's 3.3-litre inline-6 turbo engine stands out in a segment dominated by four-cylinder powertrains. This configuration offers inherent balance and refinement, reducing vibration and delivering power in a smooth, predictable manner. On Highway 401, where you need to accelerate from 100 km/h to 120 km/h to pass a line of transport trucks, the inline-6's mid-range torque—332 lb-ft in the standard engine, 369 lb-ft in the high-output version—provides immediate response without hunting for gears.

The M Hybrid Boost system adds a 48-volt mild-hybrid assist, contributing 16.9 hp and 113 lb-ft of electric torque at low speeds. While this primarily benefits city driving and stop-and-go traffic, it also enhances throttle response during highway merges, filling in any turbo lag and ensuring the CX-90 accelerates decisively when you need to slot into a gap in fast-moving traffic.

Key advantages for Ontario highway driving:

• Linear power delivery from 2,000 to 4,500 rpm (high-output engine) ensures consistent acceleration during passing manoeuvres
• 8-speed automatic transmission holds lower gears longer when needed, maximizing torque availability
• Refined engine note reduces cabin noise, making long highway drives less fatiguing
• Fuel economy remains competitive at 8.4 L/100km highway (standard engine), even with the larger displacement

Stability and Control in Crosswinds

Highway 401's open stretches and high volume of transport trucks create frequent crosswinds, especially between Woodstock and Cambridge. The CX-90 counters this with a combination of suspension design, AWD calibration, and aerodynamic tuning. The independent double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension with coil springs maintain tire contact during sudden gusts, while Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) subtly brakes the inside wheels during cornering to reduce body roll and keep the vehicle stable.

i-Activ AWD continuously monitors wheel slip, steering angle, and throttle input, redistributing torque between the front and rear axles up to 50 times per second. This predictive system anticipates traction loss before it occurs, which proves valuable when passing trucks on wet pavement or navigating the transition from dry to damp road surfaces common in Ontario's variable fall and winter weather.

Stability features:

• Independent suspension at all four corners absorbs road imperfections without unsettling the chassis
• Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-speed-sensing variable power assist provides consistent feedback at highway speeds
• 265/55R19 all-season tires (standard) offer a larger contact patch for improved grip
• Curb weight of 2,171 kg (standard trims) provides mass to resist crosswinds without sacrificing agility

Safety Systems for High-Speed Merging

The CX-90's i-Activsense safety suite includes features specifically designed for highway driving. Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function maintains a set following distance, automatically adjusting speed in traffic. Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) provides critical visibility when changing lanes on busy sections of Highway 401, where trucks and faster-moving vehicles occupy multiple lanes.

On GT-P and Signature trims, Cruise & Traffic Support adds lane-centering assistance, gently steering the CX-90 within its lane during long highway stretches. This reduces driver fatigue on extended trips between Woodstock and Toronto or beyond. Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist (GT-P/Signature) actively prevents lane changes if a vehicle occupies your blind spot, adding an extra layer of protection during high-speed merges.

Highway-focused safety features:

• Driver Attention Alert (DAA) monitors steering patterns and warns if fatigue is detected
• Distance & Speed Alert (DSA) notifies you if you exceed a set speed or follow too closely
• Front and rear parking sensors (GT and above) assist with tight parking at rest stops
• 360° View Monitor (GT and above) simplifies maneuvering in crowded service areas

Towing Capability for Ontario Weekend Escapes

Beyond daily commuting, the CX-90 serves Ontario families who tow trailers to cottage country or haul recreational equipment. Standard trims (GS) offer a towing capacity of 1,588 kg (3,500 lb), sufficient for small campers or utility trailers. Upgraded trims (GS-L/GT/GT-P/Signature) increase this to 2,268 kg (5,000 lb), accommodating larger travel trailers or boat combinations.

The inline-6's torque curve—peaking at 2,000 rpm in the standard engine and sustained through 3,500 rpm—provides the low-end grunt needed for confident towing. When equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories, the CX-90 includes a Towing mode in the Mi-Drive system (GS-L and above), which adjusts transmission shift points and throttle response to optimize stability when hauling a trailer on Highway 401 or rural Ontario highways.

Which CX-90 Trim Suits Your Highway Driving?

CX-90 MHEV GS: Best for drivers prioritizing value and regular-fuel operation. The 280 hp engine handles highway passing with ease, and standard i-Activ AWD ensures stability in variable conditions. Ideal for daily Highway 401 commuters who don't require maximum towing capacity.

CX-90 MHEV GT: Adds Cruise & Traffic Support, 360° View Monitor, and upgraded safety features. The larger 12.3-inch infotainment display and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto enhance long-distance comfort. Recommended for frequent highway travelers who value advanced driver aids.

CX-90 MHEV GT-P: Delivers 340 hp and 369 lb-ft with the high-output inline-6, plus 21-inch wheels and ventilated front seats. The increased towing capacity (2,268 kg / 5,000 lb) suits families who regularly haul trailers. Premium fuel requirement offsets some fuel economy gains, but highway efficiency remains strong at 8.5 L/100km.

CX-90 MHEV Signature: Top-tier refinement with Nappa leather, Maple Wood accents, and a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Combines the high-output engine with the most comprehensive safety suite. Best for drivers seeking maximum comfort and capability on extended Ontario highway trips.

Your Highway-Ready CX-90 Awaits in Woodstock

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's inline-6 turbo engine and i-Activ AWD system deliver the passing power and stability Ontario drivers need to navigate Highway 401 with confidence. Whether you're commuting between Woodstock and Toronto, towing to cottage country, or simply seeking a capable family SUV that handles variable weather and heavy traffic, the CX-90's combination of torque, refinement, and advanced safety features proves its value every time you merge into the left lane.

Experience the CX-90's highway capability firsthand at Woodstock Mazda. Our team can walk you through trim-specific features and arrange a test drive on Ontario roads. Contact us today to find the right CX-90 for your driving needs.