2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo presented a bold aesthetic with its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the vehicle a distinctive, floating appearance, setting it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based. The elevated stance of the CX-30 was immediately noticeable, offering a higher ground clearance and a more SUV-like presence. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3’s quality with upscale materials and a sophisticated design, featuring stitched chocolate brown surfaces and a choice of leather upholstery in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid maintained a unique, albeit polarizing, design with its blunt nose and floating roof effect. The SUV’s styling was balanced by swollen haunches and cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, which might have seemed overwhelming initially but promised to become familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid’s interior offered a two-tone look with soft leather in higher trims, though the dashboard’s asymmetrical design could suffer from reflections. Despite its distinctive appearance, the Highlander Hybrid aimed to provide a comfortable and upscale experience for its occupants.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on fuel octane. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong acceleration. The SUV’s fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed an average of 24.1 mpg. The CX-30 Turbo featured advanced technologies like G-Vectoring Control Plus and i-Activ AWD, which enhanced driving dynamics by distributing power effectively. Despite its added height and weight, the CX-30 offered a satisfying driving experience, especially with its Off-Road mode for adventurous terrains.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. Its total output was 243 horsepower, with optional all-wheel drive. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, it lacked excitement in driving dynamics. The engine sounded strained under load, and the steering felt lifeless. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement over previous models. The Highlander Hybrid was more about comfort and efficiency, offering a smooth ride on highways but struggling with body movement on uneven roads.

The Mazda CX-30 Turbo provided a comfortable driver experience with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin’s minimalist design contributed to a sense of spaciousness, though rear-seat space was limited. Cargo capacity was 20.2 cubic feet, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with seats folded. The placement of the wireless charger in the center console was a minor inconvenience.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered roomy accommodations for front passengers, with a 10-way power driver’s seat and heated, ventilated front seats. The second-row bench increased seating capacity to eight, though space was tight for three adults. The third row was less comfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet overall. Storage solutions were practical, though the wireless charger’s location could block access to storage.

The Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display controlled via physical controls and voice commands. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system’s complexity could be frustrating. Premium trims added a Bose audio system and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen in higher trims, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The JBL audio system provided powerful sound, though it required adjustments for optimal performance. The Highlander’s infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror added convenience.

The Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, equipped with i-ActiveSense ADAS. Premium trims added features like adaptive front lighting and Traffic Jam Assist, enhancing safety.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with new intersection support and emergency steering assistance. While effective, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering systems had room for improvement. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.