Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander: Which Is Better?
Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander: Why the CX-90 Is the Superior Choice
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV that combines luxury, performance, and advanced technology, two popular contenders often come to mind: the Mazda CX-90 and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, modern safety features, and reliable performance, but the Mazda CX-90, available at Olympia Mazda, part of the Dinsmore Auto Group, stands out with its superior design, premium feel, and exhilarating driving experience. In this comparison, we’ll highlight the key differences between the Mazda CX-90 and the Toyota Highlander and explain why the CX-90 is the better choice.
Superior Design and Luxury Feel
One of the most noticeable differences between the Mazda CX-90 and the Toyota Highlander is the overall design and luxurious feel of the vehicles. The Mazda CX-90 embraces Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, which emphasizes elegance and sophistication. With its sleek lines, bold front grille, and premium finishes, the CX-90 exudes a refined, upscale appearance that turns heads on the road. Inside, the CX-90 offers a cabin crafted with high-quality materials like Nappa leather, genuine wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment that the Toyota Highlander simply can’t match.
The Highlander, while functional, lacks the same level of attention to detail and premium touch that you’ll find in the Mazda CX-90. Its interior feels more utilitarian, with less focus on design aesthetics and luxury. If a high-end look and feel are important to you, the CX-90 easily wins this category.
Advanced Mazda Technology vs. Toyota Highlander
Mazda’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into its vehicles is evident in the CX-90, which comes equipped with a host of innovative features that enhance both convenience and safety. The Mazda CX-90 boasts the Mazda Connect™ infotainment system with a large, high-resolution display, offering seamless connectivity through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Additionally, the available 12.3-inch digital gauge display and heads-up display project key information directly onto the windshield, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road.
While the Toyota Highlander also offers a functional infotainment system, it lacks the sleek integration and user-friendly interface found in the CX-90. The CX-90’s technology feels more intuitive, responsive, and in tune with modern drivers’ needs, making it the clear winner when it comes to in-car tech.
Mazda Safety Features: Confidence on Every Drive
Safety is a priority for both Mazda and Toyota, but the CX-90 edges out the Highlander with its comprehensive suite of safety features. The Mazda CX-90 comes standard with i-Activsense® safety technologies, which include Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist. These features work together to enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents, offering a safer driving experience for you and your passengers.
While the Toyota Highlander also offers a solid array of safety features, Mazda’s implementation feels more refined and integrated. The CX-90’s safety systems work seamlessly, providing confidence and peace of mind that are hard to match.
Exhilarating Performance That Outshines the Competition
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that’s not only practical but also thrilling to drive, the Mazda CX-90 is the clear choice. The CX-90 is powered by an available turbocharged inline-six engine that delivers up to 340 horsepower, offering responsive acceleration and impressive towing capabilities. Mazda’s renowned i-Activ AWD® system enhances handling and provides added stability in various driving conditions, making the CX-90 a joy to drive whether you’re navigating city streets or winding country roads.
In contrast, the Toyota Highlander’s performance feels more reserved, even with its available V6 engine. While capable, the Highlander lacks the sporty driving dynamics and engaging feel that make the CX-90 stand out. Mazda’s dedication to crafting vehicles that are fun to drive shines through in the CX-90, making it a superior choice for those who value performance.
Luxurious Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior comfort, the Mazda CX-90 excels with its thoughtfully designed cabin that prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience. The CX-90 offers spacious seating for up to seven passengers, with available second-row captain’s chairs and a versatile third row. High-quality materials, adjustable seating, and a focus on noise reduction create a serene and comfortable environment, perfect for long road trips or daily commutes.
The Toyota Highlander, while spacious, lacks the same level of refinement found in the CX-90. The materials and finishes used in the Highlander’s cabin don’t quite reach the premium standard set by Mazda, making the CX-90 the better choice for those seeking a truly luxurious interior experience.
Mazda’s Attention to Detail Sets the CX-90 Apart
Mazda’s attention to detail is evident throughout the CX-90, from the meticulously crafted dashboard to the ambient interior lighting that creates a welcoming atmosphere. This level of care is not as apparent in the Toyota Highlander, which focuses more on functionality than on creating a luxurious experience. Every element of the CX-90 feels carefully considered, making it an SUV that stands out not just for its capabilities, but also for its artistry.
CX-90: A True Luxury SUV Experience
Is the CX-90 a luxury vehicle? Absolutely. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by premium finishes and state-of-the-art technology that elevate every drive. The Toyota Highlander, while reliable and capable, doesn’t offer the same level of luxury and sophistication. The CX-90 feels like a vehicle from a higher class, offering an experience that rivals more expensive luxury brands.
CX-90 Offers a Smooth and Quiet Ride
The Mazda CX-90’s superior suspension tuning and sound insulation provide a smooth, quiet ride that enhances the overall driving experience. Whether you’re on a bumpy city street or cruising on the highway, the CX-90 maintains a level of composure and comfort that the Highlander struggles to match. This smooth ride quality is a key aspect of what makes the CX-90 feel like a true luxury SUV.
A More Engaging Driving Experience
Driving the Mazda CX-90 is more than just getting from point A to B—it’s an engaging experience that connects you to the road. Mazda’s focus on delivering a fun-to-drive character sets the CX-90 apart from competitors like the Highlander, which prioritizes practicality over driving enjoyment. For those who appreciate a vehicle that feels lively and responsive, the CX-90 is the clear winner.
Exceptional Value for a Luxury SUV
Despite its premium features, the Mazda CX-90 offers exceptional value for a luxury SUV. It provides all the amenities, performance, and style you’d expect from a high-end vehicle without the exorbitant price tag. When you compare it to the Toyota Highlander, the CX-90 delivers a far more luxurious experience at a competitive price, making it a smart choice for discerning drivers.
Experience the Mazda CX-90 at Olympia Mazda
The Mazda CX-90 clearly outshines the Toyota Highlander with its superior design, advanced technology, luxurious interior, and exhilarating performance. If you’re ready to experience what sets the CX-90 apart, visit Olympia Mazda and Dinsmore Auto Group to explore our extensive inventory of Mazda CX-90 models, where you can experience the superior luxury and performance that set it apart from the Toyota Highlander. Our team is here to help you explore the Mazda CX-90, take a test drive, and discover why this SUV is the better choice for those who demand luxury, style, and performance in every drive.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans
