In a highly competitive midsize three-row SUV segment, the 2023 Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 are a pair of extremely competent rivals, and both Japanese manufacturers provide plenty of elements in an attempt to gain an edge over the other.
With proven competitors such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and the upcoming 2023 Honda Pilot, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 tries to provide a sportier and high-quality feel to bring in buyers, while the Toyota Highlander focuses more on practicality and efficiency as its fortes.
In terms of pricing, the 2023 Toyota Highlander starts at a segment average price of $37,755, while the more expensive 2023 Mazda CX-9 asks for over $40,000 for its entry-level trim. Let’s see if these vehicles justify their price tags by getting into the pros and cons of each.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Is Faster Than The Toyota Highlander
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes with two powertrain options, starting with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 310 pound feet of torque, mated to an 8-speed ECT automatic transmission. It comes standard with FWD and optional AWD. The other choice is a hybrid powertrain comprised of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder along with two electric motors that combine to make 243 horsepower and 175 pound feet of torque. It can also sport either FWD or AWD, and comes with a CVT automatic transmission. Both power plants are reasonably peppy and take just around 7.3 seconds to scoot from 0-60 mph when equipped with AWD.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 only comes with a single engine option in the form of a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces a maximum output of 250 horsepower and 320 pound feet of torque. It’s mated to a 6-speed automatic, and unlike the Toyota Highlander, the CX-9 comes standard with AWD across the entire range, allowing it to blast from 0-60 mph in 7 seconds flat.
0.3 seconds isn’t really a significant difference when comparing the performance of both models, but we’d still give the 2023 Mazda CX-9 the edge because it also manages to deliver better handling capabilities, thanks to precise and responsive steering, as well as a well-tuned suspension and standard AWD.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Has A Better Interior Than The Toyota Highlander
Mazda is commonly known to decorate its interior cabins with high-grade materials and up-to-date tech, granting an upscale feel isn't true for the likes of the Toyota Highlander. However, with that in mind, the 2023 Highlander is still well-equipped in its own right. Taking the mid-range trims of both models, which are both priced at just above $45,000, the Toyota Highlander XSE comes standard with 10-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and an 8-inch center touchscreen. In terms of materials, it features faux-leather upholstery and trimming, as well as squishy-rubbers with feel-good plastic inserts.
Moving on to the mid-range 2023 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring trim, it graces passengers with 8-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, ventilated front seats, heated second row captain’s chairs, a heated steering wheel, a 12-speaker Bose surround sound system, as well as a 10.25-inch center infotainment screen and a 7-inch LCD driver’s display. The Mazda CX-9 also does better than the Toyota Highlander quality-wise, providing leather upholstery and top-notch trimming materials such as brushed metals and feel-good composites.
As far as safety tech goes, both vehicles are well-equipped and reassuring for passengers, with standard features such as front and side-impact airbags, an array of monitoring systems and driving aids, as well as several driving assist elements.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Is More Practical Than The Mazda CX-9
Beyond reasonable doubt, the 2023 Toyota Highlander definitely takes the cake when compared to the Mazda CX-9’s practical capabilities. Both vehicles offer seven seat setups with 2nd row captains chairs, of 8 seat configurations with second and third row benches. However, the 2023 Toyota Highlander manages to provide just a little more passenger space in the third row - though both vehicle’s third rows are best reserved for children, and a larger 16 cubic-foot trunk area compared to the CX-9’s 14 cubic-foot space. The Highlander also fits up to 14 cup holders.
Fuel efficiency falls in favor of the 2023 Toyota Highlander as well, especially when equipped with the hybrid power train. It delivers a combined EPA-estimated return of 35 mpg, while the most efficient version of the 2023 Mazda CX-9 only returns a combined estimate of 23 mpg.
All in all, the 2023 Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-9 are two pretty different midsize three-row SUVs, and choosing between them ultimately depends on what you prefer. Those that prioritize performance and cabin quality will feel more at home with the Mazda CX-9, while drivers with an eye for practicality and efficiency should opt for the Toyota Highlander.
Sources: Toyota, Mazda