Which Suv Reigns Supreme? Toyota Highlander Vs Mazda Cx-9: The Ultimate Comparison
What To Know
- The Highlander has slightly more cargo space behind the third row of seats, but the CX-9 offers more legroom and headroom in the third row.
- In terms of safety ratings, the Toyota Highlander received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Mazda CX-9 received a 4-star overall safety rating.
- However, the Highlander offers more standard features than the CX-9, including a more powerful engine, a hybrid powertrain option, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.
The Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 are two of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market, and for good reason. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and a variety of features that make them ideal for families. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Toyota Highlander and CX-9 head-to-head to determine which one comes out on top.
Performance: Power and Efficiency Compared
The Toyota Highlander offers two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 243 horsepower. The Mazda CX-9, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of performance, the Highlander’s V6 engine provides more power and acceleration than the CX-9’s turbocharged four-cylinder. However, the CX-9’s engine delivers more torque, which makes it better suited for towing and hauling heavy loads. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Highlander hybrid has the advantage, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to the CX-9’s 23 mpg combined.
Interior: Space, Comfort, and Features
Both the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 offer spacious interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander has slightly more cargo space behind the third row of seats, but the CX-9 offers more legroom and headroom in the third row.
When it comes to comfort, both vehicles offer comfortable seats and a quiet ride. However, the Highlander has a more upscale interior with higher-quality materials and a more intuitive infotainment system. The CX-9, on the other hand, has a more stylish interior with a more modern design.
Safety: Features and Ratings Compared
The Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 both offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Highlander also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes features such as lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The CX-9, on the other hand, comes standard with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, which includes features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and lane keep assist.
In terms of safety ratings, the Toyota Highlander received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Mazda CX-9 received a 4-star overall safety rating.
Reliability: Which SUV Has a Better Track Record?
The Toyota Highlander has a reputation for being one of the most reliable SUVs on the market. It has consistently received high marks from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates for its reliability and dependability. The Mazda CX-9, on the other hand, has a less impressive reliability record. It has been plagued by a number of problems, including issues with its engine, transmission, and infotainment system.
Price: Which SUV Offers the Best Value?
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,855, while the Mazda CX-9 has a starting price of $34,150. However, the Highlander offers more standard features than the CX-9, including a more powerful engine, a hybrid powertrain option, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features. When it comes to value, the Highlander is the better choice.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Family SUV Showdown
The Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 are both excellent choices for families who need a spacious and versatile SUV. However, the Highlander has the edge in terms of performance, fuel efficiency, interior space, comfort, safety, and reliability. The CX-9, on the other hand, offers a more stylish interior and a lower starting price. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Highlander has slightly more cargo space behind the third row of seats than the Mazda CX-9.
Q: Which SUV has more legroom and headroom in the third row?
A: The Mazda CX-9 has more legroom and headroom in the third row than the Toyota Highlander.
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Highlander‘s V6 engine provides more power and acceleration than the CX-9’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Highlander hybrid has the advantage in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to the CX-9’s 23 mpg combined.
Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: The Toyota Highlander received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the Mazda CX-9 received a 4-star overall safety rating.