2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, now with a more robust and industrial look. The exterior featured deep beveled creases on the side body panels, blending seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance suitable for off-road adventures. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner included design elements like the slanted rearmost window from the first generation. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling throughout. The interior was functional, with hard plastics for durability and light cushioning for comfort. While the materials were superior to those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, they didn't quite match the luxury of a Land Rover Defender.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three variants: the 3.3 Turbo, 3.3 Turbo S, and PHEV, with trim levels ranging from Select to Premium Plus. Our test vehicle, a 3.3 Turbo with Premium Plus trim, showcased a luxurious appearance with lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, contributing to its athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 featured an upscale interior with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear. However, the ergonomics were less than ideal, with a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these issues, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The base model came with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation's V6. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option. The more off-road-oriented models came standard with 4WD. Toyota introduced the i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, combining the four-cylinder engine with a 1.87-kWh battery pack and an electric motor, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid variant offered stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling improved significantly, with reduced body roll and better composure on winding roads. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine distinct trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added wind noise.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in the 3.3 Turbo models. The 3.3 Turbo S variant delivered 319 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an option for 340 horsepower using premium gas. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The i-Stop function aimed to improve fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. However, the drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. The CX-90's ride and handling were impressive, but drivetrain issues and noise isolation detracted from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the CX-90 remained a dynamic family hauler, with a taut suspension and engaging driving dynamics.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner grew five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch increase in wheelbase. While this typically results in more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating, with adequate legroom and headroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models, but it was cramped and best suited for short trips. The cockpit was well-organized, with logically placed controls and oversized knobs for easy adjustment. Off-road controls were grouped together for no-look operation, and auxiliary controls allowed for customization. Storage options included slatted door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity measured 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the Hybrid due to the raised floor. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, despite a cool summer, struggled to maintain a comfortable temperature, with the three-zone climate control system taking time to cool the cabin. The Premium Plus trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. However, the long rear doors made loading children challenging. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults. Storage options were limited, with a smartphone charging tray, a shallow bin under the center armrest, and stingy door panel storage. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded. Maximum cargo volume measured 74.2 cubic feet, smaller than some rivals.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a larger 14-inch touchscreen available. Both screens offered logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were available. Hybrid variants included a digital instrument panel, with availability on other models. Off-road-focused models featured external camera views for precise tire placement, with automatic activation when crawling. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were possible through a smartphone app, with a digital key function replacing the key fob.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a knob and buttons. Mazda's voice recognition system was hit-and-miss, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data. The blind-spot monitoring system provided visual alerts, enhancing safety.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were not yet available, but the Tacoma pickup on which it was based received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. All 4Runner models came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a traffic sign reader, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. Cruising and Traffic Support paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, though it had some issues with speed reduction and lane markings. Despite these quirks, the CX-90's driver aids were effective, with the blind-spot monitoring system providing an extra layer of safety.