All New 2024 Mazda CX-90 vs Toyota Highlander

SUV Showdown: 2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander

When choosing the perfect midsize SUV, two top contenders often come to mind: the 2024 Mazda CX-90 and the 2024 Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, making them excellent choices for families and individuals alike. However, each SUV has unique strengths and features that may appeal to different buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore how the CX-90 and Highlander stack up in design, performance, technology, safety, and value, helping you decide which is the best fit for your lifestyle and driving needs.

Design and Aesthetics

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a true standout in terms of design, showcasing the brand’s signature sophistication and sleek styling. The exterior boasts premium finishes and a modern, aerodynamic profile that turns heads when you’re coming and going. Inside, the CX-90’s cabin is a testament to Mazda’s upscale Kodo design language, with high-quality materials, elegant lines, and a driver-centric layout that puts all controls within easy reach.

Taking a more practical approach to design, the Highlander prioritizes functionality and family-friendly features. The exterior has a robust SUV-like presence with clean lines and a commanding presence. While not as visually striking as the CX-90, the Highlander’s design is timeless and appeals to a wide range of buyers. The interior is spacious and well organized, with a focus on maximizing comfort and convenience for all passengers.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 offers two powerful engine options. The standard turbocharged I-6 delivers impressive performance, up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque in the top-tier S trim. For those seeking even greater efficiency, the available plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 323 horsepower. The CX-90’s new rear-wheel-drive platform and advanced all-wheel-drive system provide a dynamic, engaging driving experience with sharp handling and excellent responsiveness.

The Toyota Highlander also offers two engine options, though they’re less powerful than the CX-90’s offerings. The standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for most driving situations. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined 243 horsepower and impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. While not as sporty as the CX-90, the Highlander offers a smooth, comfortable ride and reliable performance.

Technology and Connectivity

Both the 2024 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander come packed with advanced technology features designed to enhance your driving experience. The CX-90 boasts a large, intuitive infotainment system with a 10.25- or 12.3-inch display, depending on the trim level. The interface is user-friendly and responsive, with standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system. Higher trims offer additional tech upgrades, including a 360-degree camera system, traffic sign recognition, and a head-up display.

The Toyota Highlander also offers a well-equipped infotainment system with an 8-inch display on the base model and a larger 12.3-inch screen available for higher trims. Like the CX-90, the Highlander comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. While the SUV’s interface may not be as sleek as the CX-90’s, it’s still user-friendly and packed with features. Notable tech options include a digital rearview mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a JBL premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority for both Mazda and Toyota, and the CX-90 and Highlander reflect this commitment with their advanced driver-assistance systems and robust construction. The CX-90 comes standard with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. These features work seamlessly to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind on the road.

The Toyota Highlander is equally impressive in terms of safety thanks to the standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package. This comprehensive suite includes similar features to the CX-90, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Both SUVs have earned high marks in crash tests, showcasing their strong build quality and advanced safety engineering.

When it comes to reliability, both Mazda and Toyota have a reputation for producing long-lasting, dependable vehicles. The CX-90 and Highlander come with competitive warranty coverage, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. While the Highlander has a slightly longer track record of reliability, the CX-90’s advanced engineering and high-quality construction suggest it will be a reliable choice for years to come.

Price and Value

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander offer competitive pricing in the midsize SUV segment with their range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences. The CX-90’s base model starts at an MSRP of $37,845, while the top-tier S trim with the plug-in hybrid powertrain can reach upwards of $60,000. For this price, buyers get a premium, well-equipped SUV with advanced technology, powerful performance, and a luxurious interior.

The Toyota Highlander has a slightly higher starting MSRP of around $39,270 for the base L trim, with prices climbing to almost $50,000 for the top-of-the-line Platinum model. While not as upscale as the CX-90, the Highlander still offers excellent value for money, with a spacious interior, efficient hybrid powertrain options, and a long list of standard features.

Experience the Ultimate SUV at Hiley Mazda of Fort Worth

If you’re in the Fort Worth area and considering a new midsize SUV, we invite you to visit Hiley Mazda of Fort Worth to experience the all-new 2024 Mazda CX-90 firsthand. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff is dedicated to helping you find the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle and driving needs. We offer competitive pricing, flexible financing options, and a state-of-the-art service center to keep your CX-90 running smoothly for years to come. Don’t miss your chance to get behind the wheel of this exceptional SUV — visit us today in Fort Worth, Texas, and discover the CX-90.