Choosing a family-friendly, three-row vehicle can be a daunting task, considering how many options are available. SUVs and minivans come in various shapes and sizes, each boasting its unique set of features. In this comparison, we'll delve into two very popular ones: the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Mazda CX-9.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander is known for its commitment to the basics of family-oriented transportation. It offers a spacious interior, a robust V6 engine, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. With a diverse lineup of trims, features, and prices, the Highlander caters to a wide range of family needs and budgets.
On the other hand, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 maintains Mazda's reputation for delivering engaging driving experiences. With its sleek design, balanced performance, and thoughtful interior, the CX-9 is a worthy competitor in this segment.
2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Mazda CX-9: Three-Row Crossovers Compared
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander with a commendable 8 out of 10 for its look and feel. The Highlander boasts a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, setting it apart on the road. Its flared fender arches and cleverly designed third-row window create an illusion of a more compact vehicle while offering generous cabin space.
The interior of the Highlander is equally impressive. The XSE trim, for instance, stands out with an optional bold red leather package that adds a touch of sportiness. Additionally, the XSE offers unique exterior styling, ambient interior lighting, and a sport-tuned suspension for those seeking a more spirited driving experience. With a range of trims, from L to Platinum, there's an option for various budgets and needs.
On the other hand, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 earns a slightly higher rating of 9 out of 10 from CarGurus experts for its overall aesthetics. Mazda's design language, known as "Kodo," is evident in the CX-9, making it visually appealing. The CX-9 features high wheel arches, detailed body bends, and a sleek sloping roofline that gives it a dynamic and elegant appearance. The large grille, expressive headlights, and long hood contribute to its sporty and attractive profile.
Inside the CX-9, you'll find a striking and elegant cockpit. The horizontal band of trim across the dash adds a touch of sophistication, while the 10.25-inch infotainment screen is conveniently positioned for the driver's line of sight. The CX-9's design elements create a sense of unity and continuity throughout the cabin, enhancing its overall appeal.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander with a respectable 7 out of 10 for its performance. Under the hood, the Highlander is equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This power is channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD). The transmission offers a tap-shift function and certain trims feature steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Highlander also comes with various driving modes, including Sport, Normal, and Eco.
While the Highlander's V6 engine provides ample power for highway cruising and overtaking, it may feel less spirited from a standstill. Nevertheless, the vehicle's handling remains commendable, with the XSE trim benefitting from a sport-tuned suspension that reduces body roll while maintaining comfort.
When properly equipped, the Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing trailers or boats. Additionally, it offers a maximum payload of 1,685 pounds in certain trims.
In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 receives a high rating of 9 out of 10 for its performance from CarGurus experts. Mazda is known for its fun-to-drive vehicles, and while the CX-9 may not be a sports car, it shares Mazda's performance philosophy, emphasizing handling and balance.
The CX-9 is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter turbo-four engine, which produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with regular 87-octane gasoline. Opt for premium 93-octane fuel, and the output increases to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. This flexibility in fuel choice is unique and allows owners to balance performance and value according to their preferences.
The CX-9's six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD enhance its performance and handling. The i-ACTIV AWD system includes off-road traction assist and torque vectoring, contributing to agile and responsive handling. The CX-9 is remarkably nimble for a midsize SUV, offering direct and predictable steering feel.
Despite not being the fastest in its class, the CX-9 shines when it comes to driving pleasure, particularly on winding roads.
Form and Function
CarGurus experts give the 2022 Toyota Highlander an impressive rating of 9 out of 10 for its form and function. One of the standout features of the Highlander is its versatility and spaciousness. With the second- and third-row seats folded, it provides up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families with varying cargo needs.
The interior of the Highlander is thoughtfully designed, with ample storage solutions throughout. The front doors feature deep cargo pockets, and there are additional ledges on the dash and in front of the driver. The center console and dash tray offer plenty of room for storing essentials. Even the third row provides two cupholders on each side of the vehicle.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 receives a rating of 7 out of 10 for its form and function from CarGurus experts. While the CX-9 offers a sliding second-row bench to facilitate legroom adjustments between rows, it faces a challenge with third-row access for adults taller than five feet.
With the third row in use, the CX-9 offers 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 38.2 cubic feet when the third row is folded. Folding down both the second and third rows opens up a generous 71.2 cubic feet of cargo space, making it practical for transporting larger items but on the smaller side compared with the Highlander.
That said, inside the CX-9, you'll find a range of storage options, including a glove compartment, overhead console, center console armrest, and door bottle holders with storage bins.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander 8 out of 10 for technology, and it's easy to see why. The Highlander comes standard with a range of tech features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, five USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While it doesn't offer wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it compensates with a straightforward layout and hard buttons flanking the touchscreen. This combination of screens and hard controls is reminiscent of a bygone era in the automotive industry, which some consumers may find comforting. Additionally, there's a wireless charging pad in the center tray, and you can opt for a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel screen, and an impressive 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 also receives a respectable rating of 7 out of 10 for technology. It features the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system, which includes wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A six-speaker sound system, AM/FM/HD Radio, Bluetooth, and audio menu voice-command are standard equipment. For those who crave connectivity, a three-month trial of an in-car 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is included. Mazda offers SiriusXM satellite radio on specific trim levels and has a Bose 12-speaker audio system available. One notable difference is that Mazda ditches the touchscreen interface in favor of a central control knob, which positions the 10.25-inch display closer to the driver's line of sight, potentially enhancing safety.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander 8 out of 10 for safety. The Highlander boasts the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-assistance features as standard. This includes forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high beams. Models beyond the base L trim come with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. You can further enhance safety with optional features like front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a surround-view parking monitor, a head-up display, and adaptive headlights.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 excels in safety, earning a remarkable rating of 9 out of 10. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include a rearview camera, airbags, hill-launch assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, and more. Premium trims add a driver attention monitor and reverse automatic emergency braking.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander 9 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The Highlander offers a range of efficient configurations, with the FWD L and FWD XLE models delivering 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. While the AWD versions are slightly less efficient, returning 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, they still provide respectable fuel economy. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is available for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, though it comes at a slightly higher cost. Base prices range from $35,855 for the L trim to $48,010 for the top-tier Platinum trim, backed by a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
CarGurus experts also rate the 2022 Mazda CX-9 9 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The CX-9 might not lead in fuel efficiency, but it offers an attractive package. A fully-loaded 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD comes in at $48,830 MSRP, including options and fees. While it's competitively priced within its segment, the CX-9 stands out with its premium features, style, and reputation for reliability. Improved fuel economy, possibly through a hybrid model, could be a welcome future enhancement.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota Highlander is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Mazda CX-9 scores slightly higher at 8.3 out of 10.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Highlander if:
- You prioritize a wide range of technology features, including a versatile infotainment system and an array of optional tech upgrades.
- Safety is a top concern, and you value Toyota's advanced driver-assistance features and additional safety options.
- You want a midsize SUV that offers various configurations to suit your needs, from fuel-efficient models to sportier trims with V6 power.
Search for a 2022 Toyota Highlander on CarGurus
Choose the 2022 Mazda CX-9 if:
- You seek a stylish, premium-feeling SUV with an emphasis on a driver-centric experience and a unique central control knob for the infotainment system.
- Safety is paramount, and you appreciate a vehicle that has earned top safety ratings from respected organizations.
- You're willing to invest in a vehicle that combines luxury attributes with Mazda's reputation for reliability.
Search for a 2022 Mazda CX-9 on CarGurus
Ultimately, both the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Mazda CX-9 are strong contenders in the midsize three-row SUV segment. Your choice should be based on your specific priorities, whether that's technology, safety, or overall value for your money.
Related Topics:
