The Mazda CX-90 is a relative newcomer to the midsize SUV class compared to the veteran Toyota Highlander. These 3-row SUVs compete head-to-head for the hearts and dollars of American families looking for a versatile SUV that can handle anything a family requires of a vehicle while delivering solid value.
Let’s take a closer look at these family haulers and find the right one for you.
2025 Mazda CX-90
The 3-row Mazda CX-90 is the brand’s biggest SUV. It has the brand hallmarks of excellent interior quality for the money and an engaging driving experience in its sportier variants. This is a must-test-drive for families who like the idea of a premium SUV that’s more affordable than one from a luxury brand.
Mazda CX-90 Highlights
More powertrain options: The Mazda CX-90 is available with two tunings of its turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, with the potent Turbo S models making a healthy 340 horsepower. It’s also available as a plug-in hybrid. Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander is available with a turbo 4-cylinder or a hybrid 4-cylinder engine.
Bigger third row: The CX-90 has about 2.5 more inches of third-row legroom than the Toyota Highlander. If you regularly have passengers in those way-back seats, they’ll thank you for choosing the Mazda.
Upscale interior: Whenever we have the pleasure of driving the Mazda CX-90, we’re consistently impressed by the cabin’s upscale design and materials. It might be cliché to say it’s a premium interior without a premium price tag, but that accurately describes this Mazda’s luxe interior.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-90 models for sale near you.
2025 Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is one of the founding fathers of the midsize 3-row SUV class. Families have trusted it for decades because of its proven reputation for reliability, versatility, and value. The Highlander is one of the best-sellers in its class because it’s an SUV that families can count on.
Toyota Highlander Highlights
More cargo space: The Mazda has the advantage of more third-row legroom, but the Toyota Highlander’s packaging yields more cargo space, regardless of how many of the rear seats are folded down. Behind the second row, the Highlander has 20 percent more cargo room than the CX-90.
Lower fuel costs: Although the Mazda CX-90 is available as a plug-in hybrid, the optional conventional hybrid powertrain in the Toyota Highlander has lower estimated annual fuel costs by a factor of $500 annually, partially because the CX-90 PHEV requires premium gas. Further, Toyota has a peerless reputation for long-term hybrid reliability.
Alexa integration: The Toyota Highlander’s optional infotainment system with the 12.3-inch screen has Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant built-in. You can say “Alexa” or “Hey, Toyota” for voice-controlled functions like music, smart home controls, or even checking the weather.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Highlander models for sale near you.
Similarities
These both fit into the midsize SUV class, and both have standard 3-row seating. They’re also both available with hybrid powertrains, albeit a conventional hybrid for the Toyota and a plug-in hybrid for the Mazda. They also both boast above-average resale value.
Pricing
New 2025 MAZDA CX-90 Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$39,575 |
$37,869 |
|||
$42,675 |
$41,053 |
|||
$48,130 |
$46,382 |
|||
$51,130 |
$49,279 |
|||
$54,680 |
$52,749 |
|||
$58,180 |
$56,155 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 MAZDA CX-90 vehicles and New 2025 Toyota Highlander vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 MAZDA CX-90 | 2025 Toyota Highlander | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.3-liter turbo 6-cylinder | N/A |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds | N/A |
| Horsepower | 280 hp @ 5,000 rpm | N/A |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm | N/A |
| Transmission | automatic, 8-speed e-skyactiv-drive w/manual mode | N/A |
| Fuel Economy | 24 city/28 highway/25 combined mpg | 22 city/29 highway/25 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 0 years/0 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 8 | N/A |
| Wheelbase | 122.8 inches | N/A |
| Overall Length | 201.6 inches | 194.9 inches |
| Width | 84.9 inches | 76.0 inches |
| Height | 68.2 inches | 68.1 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 37.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 41.2 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.3 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 36.9 inches | 36.1 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 42.0 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.4 inches | 38.7 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 30.4 inches | 28.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 59.2 inches | 59.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.1 inches | 58.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 53.3 inches | 55.0 inches |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | 14.9 feet | 16.0 feet |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 40.0 feet | 48.4 feet |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 74.2 feet | 84.3 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The right SUV for your family depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a trustworthy power tool with four wheels and eight seats, the Toyota Highlander has the reputation and sales numbers it has for good reasons. It’s practical, reliable, and an overall great value. However, the Mazda CX-90 is a little fancier at a similar price point, has more variety under the hood, and has a little extra room in the third row.
