The midsize 3-row SUVs from 2024—the Mazda CX-90 and the Toyota Highlander—show that you don’t have to spend luxury-level money to acquire a luxurious, roomy car with cutting-edge safety and technological amenities.
The CX-90 is the newcomer to this company. Set above vehicles like as the CX-5 and CX-50, it is Mazda’s largest and priciest SUV, having been introduced for the 2024 model year. The CX-90 comes standard with all-wheel drive and a choice of two potent turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engines.
Regarding the Highlander, its most recent iteration debuted for the 2020 model year and is still the benchmark for three-row SUVs. The Highlander’s stellar reputation for dependability and high resale value doesn’t make things worse. For consumers looking to get the most SUV for their money, this is important.
Let’s examine some of the best features of the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-90 to see how they compare.
2024 Mazda CX-90
The starting price of the Mazda CX-90, including the destination charge, is $39,220. Turbo Select, Turbo Preferred, Turbo Preferred Plus, Turbo Premium, Turbo Premium Plus, Turbo S, Turbo S Premium, and Turbo S Premium Plus are the eight trim levels that are offered.
Observe those models whose names end in “S”? These suggest that they are driving a turbocharged inline-6 with 340 horsepower instead of the regular 280 horsepower. All-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic gearbox are standard on each.
Highlights of the CX-90
Elegant cabin: The CX-90’s luxurious design is more than matched by the interior quality. Higher trim levels swap out the two captain’s chairs for a second-row bench seat. The captain’s chairs offer support and facilitate access to the third row, even though the overall capacity of these trims is reduced from eight to seven passengers. Additional features include heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Nappa leather upholstery.
Standard AWD: Mazda decided not too long ago that all-wheel drive would be standard on every SUV it sold in the United States. In rival models, such as the Toyota Highlander, this increased road grip comes at an additional cost.
Maneuvrable: You might not think that a family-friendly midsize three-row SUV would be described as having “agility” and “quick steering responses.” However, such is the Mazda CX-90’s situation. For this vehicle class, the ride is a little harsher than average, but we believe the exceptional body control makes up for it.
Toyota Highlander (2024)
Although the Highlander’s current generation began with the 2020 model year, several significant improvements have kept this SUV at the top of the game. This includes a 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that was unveiled last year to replace the obedient and long-serving V6.
Given that the turbo engine offers powerful acceleration and better fuel economy, the modification was beneficial. The 2024 Highlander has five trim levels and a starting price of $40,665.
Highlights of the Toyota Highlander
Fuel efficiency: The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine of the Highlander generates 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine has a lot of torque and gets an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined when driven on the interstate and in cities. This is on par with the Mazda CX-90, but still superior than many other SUVs.
Two 12.3-inch screens: The Highlander’s dual-screen arrangement, which is available on higher trim levels, is another recent upgrade. The menus are well-marked, the icons are sizable, and the touchscreen is simple to use while driving. Remember that even the basic 8-inch screen has numerous USB connections, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and other tech features, so you can keep the cost down.
Cupholders everywhere: Drivers of Highlanders must have quite a thirst, as must all of their passengers. This explains why the inside is equipped with a total of 14 cup holders. This enhances the Highlander’s minivan-like practicality.
Comparabilities
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90 have powerful turbocharged engines, smooth and intelligent all-wheel drive systems, and an extensive array of driver assistance features.
They have nearly comparable economy estimates, user-friendly infotainment systems, and kid-friendly third rows. Yes, adults fit snugly into the backmost seats in the Mazda and Toyota.
