Toyota Highlander 2024 vs Mazda CX-90: Which SUV Wins in 2024?
When choosing between the Toyota Highlander 2024 and the Mazda CX-90, buyers face a compelling clash of reliability, comfort, and driving dynamics. Both SUVs dominate the mid-size segment but cater to slightly different preferences—whether prioritizing smooth family rides or sporty engagement behind the wheel. This detailed comparison breaks down key factors to help you decide which SUV truly delivers the best mix of performance, value, and style for 2024.
Reliability and Build Quality
Both the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-90 deliver exceptional reliability, backed by strong reputations. The Highlander offers Toyota’s legendary durability with a refined, spacious interior designed for long family trips. Its powertrain options—including a hybrid variant—emphasize smooth, quiet operation. The CX-90, built on Mazda’s versatile platform, features premium materials and a responsive ride, blending sporty handling with comfort. While Highlander leans into dependability, CX-90 excels in build precision and cohesive design, appealing to drivers seeking a polished, engaging experience.
Technology and Interior Experience
Tech-savvy buyers will appreciate Toyota’s intuitive infotainment with a user-friendly touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, though some find it conservative compared to newer rivals. The CX-90 stands out with a more modern, driver-focused cockpit, featuring a larger digital gauge cluster, premium audio, and seamless Apple CarPlay support. Its cabin feels more refined, with attention to acoustic insulation and layout. While Highlander offers robust connectivity, the CX-90’s interface and materials create a more immersive, contemporary atmosphere ideal for tech-oriented families and drivers alike.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
The Highlander delivers a smooth, comfortable ride with a focus on stability—excellent for frequent travelers and those prioritizing comfort. Its chassis tuning leans toward reassurance, with minimal body roll and predictable handling. In contrast, the CX-90 delivers sharper, more engaging dynamics, thanks to sport-tuned suspension and responsive steering. This makes it a fun choice for weekend adventures and winding roads, offering a more spirited driving experience without sacrificing control. Though both offer fuel-efficient engines, the CX-90’s performance-oriented setup gives it an edge for drivers wanting a bit more engagement from their daily SUV.
Value and Long-Term Ownership
The Toyota Highlander leads in resale value and long-term reliability, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious buyers seeking low maintenance and strong warranty coverage. The CX-90, while slightly pricier upfront, offers premium materials and a compelling design that justifies its premium. Its strong performance and driver engagement appeal to those prioritizing a more dynamic ride. Both vehicles deliver excellent ownership value, but Highlander appeals to practical families, while CX-90 attracts buyers seeking a premium blend of style and fun in every drive.
Ultimately, the 2024 Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-90 represent two distinct visions in the mid-size SUV world. Highlander wins for its unwavering reliability, comfort, and family-friendly practicality, while the CX-90 shines with its sporty handling, refined tech, and engaging driving feel. For dependable, long-term ownership, Highlander stands out; for those craving a dynamic, stylish ride, the CX-90 delivers. Choose based on whether you value quiet durability or sporty precision in your next SUV investment.
Compare the 2025 Mazda CX. Here's what we found when pitting the 2024 Mazda CX. How do the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander compare? Use our comparison tool to see over 140 data points, including price, trims, reliability ratings, mpg, rankings, horsepower, depreciation, and standard and optional equipment.
Discover the differences between the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander with CarGurus. Compare price, expert/user reviews, popular features, vehicle specs and more. 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. The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a 8-, 7-, or 6-seat SUV starting at $45,900 with 8 different trims, and this GT trim earns a 3.70 out of 5 overall in our data. Two cars that go head to head are the 2024 Toyota Highlander and 2024 Mazda CX-90 which are both midsize 3-row SUVs.
The Mazda CX-90 has a starting cost of $39,220 (plus destination fee), comes in eight different trim levels and each model comes with an eight. The 2024 Toyota Highlander is a 7-, or 8-seat SUV starting at $46,790 with 4 different trims, and this XLE trim earns a 3.25 out of 5 overall in our data.