When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the market offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes and requirements. The Toyota Highlander vs Mazda CX-9 are popular, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and practicality. In this article, we will delve into a detailed comparison of these two vehicles, examining aspects such as design, performance, interior features, safety, and value for money to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has long been a staple in the midsize SUV market, known for its robust and family-friendly design. The latest iteration features a more aggressive and bold look, with a prominent front grille and sleek headlights. The vehicle’s overall shape is more angular, giving it a modern and somewhat rugged appearance. The Highlander is available in various colours, allowing buyers to choose a finish that suits their style.
Mazda CX-9
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-9 takes a more elegant and refined approach to design. Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy is evident in the CX-9, with its smooth curves and flowing lines. The front end is dominated by a stylish grille and sleek headlights that seamlessly blend into the bodywork. With a sophisticated and sporty design, the CX-9 has a more premium feel than the Highlander. This vehicle is also available in various colours, with unique options enhancing its upscale appearance.
Verdict: Exterior Design
Regarding design, the choice between the Highlander and CX-9 primarily concerns personal preference. The Highlander may appeal more if you prefer a rugged and bold look. However, if elegance and refinement are more your style, the CX-9 stands out with its sophisticated design.
Performance and Handling
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander offers a solid performance package. Its standard 3.5-litre V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. The Highlander is available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, giving buyers flexibility based on their driving needs.
In terms of handling, the Highlander prioritises comfort over sportiness. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and rough road surfaces, making it an excellent choice for long-distance cruising and family road trips. However, this focus on comfort means that the Highlander is not as agile or responsive as some of its competitors, particularly concerning cornering.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9, in contrast, emphasises driving dynamics. Under the bonnet, the CX-9 features a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 227 horsepower (or 250 horsepower with premium fuel) and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available.
The CX-9’s handling is where it truly shines. Mazda is known for producing vehicles that are fun to drive, and the CX-9 is no exception. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and sportiness, allowing the car to handle corners while providing a smooth ride confidently. The steering is precise, and the overall driving experience is more engaging than what you might expect from a midsize SUV.
Verdict: Performance and Handling
If driving dynamics are your priority, the Mazda CX-9 is the clear winner in this category. Its turbocharged engine and sporty handling make it one of the more enjoyable SUVs in this segment. However, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice if you prioritise comfort and a more traditional V6 powertrain.
Interior and Comfort
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and well-appointed interior, with seating for up to eight passengers in its three-row configuration. The materials used in the cabin are of high quality, and the overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Highlander’s dashboard features a modern layout with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offer a 12.3-inch display, adding to the tech-savvy feel of the interior.
The Highlander excels in terms of comfort. The supportive seats offer many adjustment options, making long journeys more pleasant. Depending on the trim level, the second-row seats can be configured as either bench seats or captain’s chairs, providing flexibility for different family needs. While adequate for children, the third row may feel a bit cramped for adults on longer trips.
The Highlander’s cargo space is generous. Behind the third row, there are 16 cubic feet of storage, which expands to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down and a massive 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 offers a more luxurious interior but sacrifices some space in favour of design. The cabin is beautifully crafted, with high-quality materials and attention to detail, giving it a premium feel. The dashboard design is clean and minimalist, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment display that integrates seamlessly with the rest of the interior. The CX-9 also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it lacks the Amazon Alexa integration in the Highlander.
The CX-9’s seating is comfortable, with supportive front seats that make long drives enjoyable. However, the second and third rows are less spacious than those in the Highlander. The third row, in particular, is tight and may only be suitable for children or shorter adults.
When it comes to cargo space, the CX-9 lags behind the Highlander. It offers 14.4 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, 38.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 71.2 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. While these figures are adequate for most needs, they do not match the generous capacity of the Highlander.
Verdict: Interior and Comfort
The Toyota Highlander is better if you prioritise interior space and comfort, particularly if you regularly transport passengers in the third row. However, if you value a more premium and luxurious cabin and can compromise on space, the Mazda CX-9 offers a more upscale experience.
Technology and Features
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander comes well-equipped with technology and features, even in its base trim. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, with physical knobs and buttons for key functions. The higher trims offer a 12.3-inch display, which adds to the tech-savvy appeal of the Highlander.
Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and driver assistance under Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ package. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and road sign assist.
Optional features on higher trims include a panoramic sunroof, a JBL premium audio system, wireless charging, and a head-up display.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 also offers many technology features, focusing on delivering a more premium experience. The 10.25-inch infotainment display is controlled via a rotary dial, which may take some getting used to but offers a more distraction-free operation once mastered. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and higher trims offer a premium Bose audio system.
Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of safety features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Higher trims of the CX-9 add features such as ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a power sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Verdict: Technology and Features
Both vehicles offer comprehensive features and technology, with the Toyota Highlander edging ahead regarding user-friendly infotainment and standard safety features. However, the Mazda CX-9 offers a more premium feel with its infotainment system and optional Bose audio, making it a close contest.
Safety
Toyota Highlander
Safety is crucial for many buyers, and the Toyota Highlander excels. It has received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander comes with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of driver assistance features as standard, offering a comprehensive array of systems to keep you and your passengers safe.
In addition to the standard features, the Highlander offers optional safety upgrades such as a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 also scores well in safety tests, with high ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of safety features is standard across the range, offering similar protection to the Highlander. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
The CX-9 also offers optional safety features such as a surround-view camera system and front and rear parking sensors, enhancing its safety credentials.
Verdict: Safety
Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 offer excellent safety features and have received top safety ratings. The decision here may come down to the specific safety technologies you prioritise, but overall, both vehicles provide high protection.
Fuel Efficiency
Toyota Highlander
With its 3.5-litre V6 engine, the Toyota Highlander offers respectable fuel economy for its class. The front-wheel-drive version achieves an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive model slightly reduces these figures to 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the road.
For those seeking even better fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid is available. It offers up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient midsize SUVs on the market.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9, with its turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, also offers competitive fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive version is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive model delivers 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the road.
While the CX-9 does not offer a hybrid option, its turbocharged engine provides a good balance of performance and efficiency.
Verdict: Fuel Efficiency
Regarding fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the clear winner for those prioritising low fuel consumption. However, for non-hybrid models, the Mazda CX-9 and Toyota Highlander offer similar fuel economy, with the CX-9 having a slight edge in city driving.
Pricing and Value
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander starts at a competitive price point for the segment, with the base model offering a solid list of standard features. As you move up the trim levels, the price increases significantly, particularly with the addition of luxury and technology features. However, the Highlander’s reputation for reliability and substantial resale value makes it a wise investment.
While more expensive upfront, the Highlander Hybrid models offer long-term savings through reduced fuel costs, making them a good choice for eco-conscious buyers.
Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is priced similarly to the Highlander, with a slightly higher starting price due to its more premium positioning. The higher trims, particularly the Signature model, are priced on the higher end of the segment, reflecting the upscale materials and features included.
While the CX-9 may not have the same level of resale value as the Highlander, it offers a more luxurious experience at a competitive price, making it a strong value proposition for those seeking a premium SUV.
Verdict: Pricing and Value
Both the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 offer good value for money, with the Highlander providing a more reliable investment and the CX-9 offering a more premium experience at a similar price point. Your choice may depend on whether you prioritise long-term value or a more luxurious experience.
Conclusion
There is no clear winner in the battle between the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9, as each vehicle caters to different needs and preferences.
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander excels in providing a spacious and comfortable interior, a robust V6 engine, and excellent safety features. It is a great choice for families prioritising space, comfort, and reliability. The availability of a hybrid model also makes it a compelling option for those looking to reduce fuel costs.
- Mazda CX-9: The CX-9, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a stylish design. It is ideal for buyers who value driving dynamics and a premium feel in their vehicle, even if it means sacrificing a bit of space.
Ultimately, your decision between the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritise space, comfort, and reliability or driving enjoyment and luxury, both vehicles offer a compelling package in the competitive midsize SUV segment.