2025 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander near Chicago
2025 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander near Chicago
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander are two standout options in the three-row SUV segment. While both offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and family-friendly practicality, they cater to different priorities. The CX-90 leans into luxury and driving performance, while the Highlander emphasizes efficiency and reliability. If you're shopping in Elmhurst, Bloomingdale, or anywhere near Chicago, here's how they compare.
Vehicle Comparison
| Mazda CX-90 | Toyota Highlander | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine configuration | Inline 6 | Inline 4 |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive | All wheel drive |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Tire size | 265/55R19 | 235/55R20 |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal.. | 17.9 gal. |
Design and Driving Feel
The Mazda CX-90 showcases a sleek, elongated profile with sculpted bodywork and premium finishes like Artisan Red paint and Nappa leather. It's built on a rear-biased platform, giving it a sportier stance and more dynamic handling. Inside, the cabin feels upscale, with minimalist design, high-quality materials, and available captain's chairs or bench seating for up to 8 passengers.
The Toyota Highlander has a more traditional SUV look, with a functional and durable interior. It seats up to 8 as well, but its cabin materials and layout are more utilitarian. While comfortable, it lacks the premium ambiance of the CX-90.
Performance and Capability
Mazda CX-90:- Standard AWD across all trims
- Turbocharged 3.3L inline-six engine with up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque
- Available Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) with 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Towing capacity: 3,500 to 5,000 lbs depending on trim
- Fuel economy: Up to 24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (gas); 26 miles electric range for PHEV
Toyota Highlander:- FWD standard, AWD optional
- Turbocharged 2.4L inline-four engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Fuel economy: 21-22 mpg city / 28-29 mpg highway depending on drivetrain
The CX-90 offers significantly more power and standard AWD, making it better suited for spirited driving and all-weather traction.
Technology and Safety
Mazda CX-90:
- Standard 12.3-inch infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Available head-up display, Bose® audio, and digital gauge cluster
- i-Activsense® safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert standard
Toyota Highlander:
- Standard 8-inch touchscreen, with 12.3-inch available on higher trims
- Wireless smartphone integration available
- Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and road sign assist
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are not standard on base trims
Mazda's tech and safety features are more consistently available across trims, while Toyota reserves some for upper-tier models.
Interior Space and Practicality
Mazda CX-90:- Cargo space: 14.9 cu.ft. behind third row, up to 75.2 cu.ft. with seats folded
- Seating: Up to 8 passengers
- Premium interior with available second-row captain's chairs
- Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs
Toyota Highlander:- Cargo space: 16.0 cu.ft. behind third row, up to 84.3 cu.ft. total
- Seating: Up to 8 passengers
- Interior is spacious but less refined
- Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs
While the Highlander offers more cargo space, the CX-90 counters with a more luxurious cabin and stronger towing capability in higher trims.
Test-Drive a New Mazda CX-90 near Bloomingdale
Reach out to /the-wilkins-way.htmWilkins Mazda today for more information about the latest Mazda models, including available features, financing opportunities, and
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Wilkins Mazda
740 N. York St
Elmhurst, IL 60126
- Sales: 630-279-3000
