2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was designed to project a rugged and aggressive demeanor, with its frowning front and angular gray body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance didn't quite match the visual promise, as the dual exhaust outlets suggested more power than the vehicle delivered. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint, a digital rearview mirror, and advanced technology packages. The RAV4's interior was utilitarian, with easy-clean surfaces and practical storage solutions, though higher trims offered more luxurious touches.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance contributed to its premium appearance. Inside, the CX-90's cabin was elegantly designed with Nappa leather and polished metallic trim, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. Ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and non-touchscreen infotainment, detracted from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the CX-90 maintained a sophisticated look and feel compared to other midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system available. The TRD Off-Road model featured exclusive off-road suspension tuning, an underbody skid plate, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road enhancements, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were not significantly improved. The SUV's fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo's drivetrain, featuring a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, delivered 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered even more power, with 319 hp and 369 lb-ft. The power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90's ride and handling were impressive, but drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. The official EPA rating for the 3.3 Turbo was 25 mpg combined, though the test vehicle averaged 21.3 mpg.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with ample storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats. The RAV4 comfortably accommodated four adults, with a roomy cargo area offering 37.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats. The three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The CX-90 offered a panoramic sunroof and comfortable second-row captain's chairs, though rear-facing child seat installation could be challenging. The cargo space measured 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the second-row seats flattened.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system lacked a multi-panel Home screen and had some usability issues, but the digital voice assistant performed well. The test vehicle did not include the JBL premium audio system or panoramic surround-view camera.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's technology was presented traditionally, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen. The infotainment system was touch-sensitive only with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a center console knob for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was subpar, but the 12-speaker Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience. The CX-90 also featured a head-up display with helpful data.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4's safety features performed adequately, though it lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 boasted a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA for the PHEV model. It offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, with additional aids available on higher trims. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though the speed reduction feature was irritating, and the audible warning systems were excessive.