2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Grand Highlander

The popularity of SUVs has been rising steadily over the past decade with no signs of slowing down. These versatile, sporty-looking vehicles are distinguishable by their dominant power, impressive performance, roomy interiors, and expansive cargo space. Most have advanced features standard in any modern luxury car while offering improved fuel economy and an affordable price. Above all, they boast a commanding road presence and can haul heavy loads thanks to their unbelievable towing capacity.

Driving the 2024 Mazda CX-90 or the Toyota Grand Highlander is one sure way to make heads turn. Our team at Capistrano Mazda has created this detailed comparison to show you what these crossover SUVs offer.

2024 Mazda CX-90 Overview

The redesigned 2024 Mazda CX-90 is a full-size crossover SUV offering a smooth plug-in hybrid powertrain system, crisp handling, and expansive cargo capacity. It features a robust turbocharged 3.3-liter I-6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission for a vibration-free ride. The vast cargo space and interior dimensions make the luxurious 2024 CX-90 one of the largest family SUVs in the Mazda lineup. It supports third-row seating, comfortably accommodating up to eight people. New features available in the 2024 model include a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a panoramic moonroof, and 21-inch wheels.

Toyota Grand Highlander Overview

The Toyota Grand Highlander is one of the biggest midsize SUVs. It features a spacious and comfortable cabin with substantial cargo space. This crossover features third-row seating, making it an ideal SUV for your family road trips. It can accommodate up to eight people with enough space in the trunk for luggage. The highlight of this vehicle is the abundant safety and driver assistance features. It also features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with three powertrain options for a fulfilling driving experience.

Exterior

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 features a sculpted exterior with sophisticated color options, oozing confidence wherever your rides take you. The vehicle’s distinct, elongated hood will command attention when you drive the streets of San Juan Capistrano. All trims come with 19- or 21-inch aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires. The Toyota Grand Highlander features a bold, modern design that creates an unmistakable presence. It has a distinctive black-painted front grille with integrated vents for optimum airflow. The 18- or 20-inch sport alloy wheels are attractive and ensure better grip and traction for faster acceleration.

Standard features on both SUVs include LED headlamps and taillights, heated power side mirrors, and an adjustable power liftgate. The 2024 CX-90 offers a power sliding-glass moonroof unavailable in the Grand Highlander.

Interior

The generous interior dimensions are one reason the CX-90 and the Grand Highlander are popular. The CX-90 interior is the epitome of pure luxury. It boasts a spacious and cozy high-end cabin with third-row seating. The driver and first- and second-row passengers enjoy leather-trimmed adjustable seats for optimum comfort. The front seats boast three heating profiles, and second-row passengers can relax on captain chairs with armrests for a kingly experience. If the cabin gets too hot or cold, you can rely on the three-zone automatic climate control for extra comfort.

The Toyota Grand Highlander doesn’t disappoint either. It has heated front seats, with second-row passengers enjoying the luxury of fold-down captain chairs with armrests. You also get three-zone automatic climate control with a separate temperature control panel for second-row passengers. The driver and front passenger can personalize their temperature settings to meet their heating or cooling needs.

Cargo Capacity

Expansive trunk capacities distinguish modern SUVs. They can accommodate your entire family and provide adequate space for hauling cargo. The 2024 CX-90 and the Grand Highlander don’t disappoint in this regard. They also feature foldable second- and third-row seats for enhanced storage space.

The 2024 CX-90 cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet with all seats intact. However, you can expand the storage capacity to 40.1 cubic feet if you fold the third-row seats and 75.2 cubic feet by stowing the second- and third-row seats. The Toyota Grand Highlander offers 20.6 cubic feet of trunk space with all seats up and 97.5 cubic when you fold all seats. Aside from the expansive cargo capacity, both vehicles have several storage compartments and holders for small items and bottles.

Engine and Performance

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has a turbocharged 3.3-liter I-6 engine with eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivers up to 280 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with 332 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The Toyota Grand Highlander has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 245 to 265 horsepower, depending on your selected powertrain. This SUV can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.

The CX-90 has a fuel efficiency rating of 24 mpg on city roads and 28 mpg on highways. The fuel economy of the Toyota Grand Highlander varies depending on the engine type and drivetrain configuration. The gasoline model achieves 21 mpg on city roads and 29 mpg on highways. With the hybrid version, you can expect 36 mpg driving in cities and 35 mpg on highways.

Tech and Safety Features

The 2024 CX-90 and Grand Highlander feature a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with an advanced sound system for endless entertainment. They also have several safety and driver-assistance features for enhanced vehicle safety. Standard safety systems include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Ready To Explore the Latest SUVs?

Whether you want to follow the flow or decide independently, investing in an SUV offers numerous benefits. The 2024 CX-90 and the Grand Highlander are spacious and comfortable. They have a remarkable passenger capacity and expansive cargo space. Our team at Capistrano Mazda can help you find the perfect ride for your needs. We have an extension selection of new and certified used vehicles to fit your unique preferences. Visit our dealership at San Juan Capistrano and book a test drive to discover what makes the new 2024 Mazda CX-90 outstanding.