Highlander vs. cx-90: uncovering the best 7-seater suv for your adventures
What To Know
- Both the Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90 are equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
- The CX-90, on the other hand, comes with a more premium standard equipment list, including leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose sound system.
- The Toyota Highlander hybrid has a better fuel economy than the Mazda CX-90, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to 28 mpg combined for the CX-90.
The automotive market is brimming with exceptional midsize SUVs, and two contenders that stand out are the Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, performance, and technology, making them highly sought-after options for families and adventure enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your needs.
Design and Styling
The Toyota Highlander exudes a rugged and muscular aesthetic, with a bold front grille and chiseled lines. Its spacious interior boasts a clean and ergonomic design, with ample legroom and headroom for all occupants.
In contrast, the Mazda CX-90 adopts a more elegant and refined approach. Its sleek silhouette and flowing curves create a sophisticated presence. The interior is equally impressive, featuring premium materials, intricate stitching, and a modern infotainment system.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system with a combined output of 243 horsepower. Both engines provide ample power for daily commutes and highway cruising.
The Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, comes standard with a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine that generates 340 horsepower. It also offers a plug-in hybrid variant that delivers an impressive 323 horsepower and an all-electric driving range of up to 36 miles.
In terms of fuel economy, the Highlander hybrid excels with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, while the CX-90 plug-in hybrid offers exceptional efficiency with an EPA-estimated 60 MPGe combined.
Safety and Technology
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90 are equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The Highlander boasts the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system, which adds features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a panoramic view monitor.
The CX-90 is equipped with the i-Activsense safety suite, which includes adaptive headlights, a 360-degree camera system, and traffic sign recognition.
In terms of technology, the Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The CX-90 offers a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with a more intuitive interface and a customizable digital instrument cluster.
Space and Versatility
The Toyota Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers in three rows, making it an ideal choice for large families. The second and third rows can be folded down to create a vast cargo area for bulky items.
The Mazda CX-90 is slightly smaller, offering seating for up to seven passengers in three rows. However, its second row provides more legroom and headroom than the Highlander, making it more comfortable for taller individuals.
Off-Road Capabilities
If you crave adventure, the Toyota Highlander is available with an optional all-wheel drive system and a Multi-Terrain Select system that optimizes traction on various surfaces.
The Mazda CX-90 does not offer any off-road-specific features, so it is better suited for on-road driving.
Pricing and Value
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $36,420, while the Mazda CX-90 starts at $39,595. The Highlander offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget.
The CX-90, on the other hand, comes with a more premium standard equipment list, including leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose sound system.
Key Points: The Perfect Choice for Your Needs
The Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90 are both exceptional midsize SUVs, but they cater to different preferences and needs. The Highlander offers a rugged exterior, spacious interior, and proven reliability, making it an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The CX-90, on the other hand, impresses with its sleek styling, refined interior, and advanced technology, making it ideal for those seeking a premium driving experience. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and budget.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander hybrid has a better fuel economy than the Mazda CX-90, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to 28 mpg combined for the CX-90.
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Mazda CX-90 has a more powerful engine than the Toyota Highlander, with a 340-horsepower turbocharged inline-six engine compared to the Highlander’s 295-horsepower V6 engine.
Q: Which SUV has more off-road capabilities?
A: The Toyota Highlander has better off-road capabilities than the Mazda CX-90, thanks to its available all-wheel drive system and Multi-Terrain Select system.
Q: Which SUV is more spacious?
A: The Toyota Highlander has more seating capacity than the Mazda CX-90, with seating for up to eight passengers compared to seven passengers in the CX-90.
Q: Which SUV has a more modern infotainment system?
A: The Mazda CX-90 has a more modern infotainment system than the Toyota Highlander, featuring a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with a more intuitive interface and a customizable digital instrument cluster.