2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed to stand out with its distinctive styling, characterized by excessive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30 maintained an overall appealing aesthetic with its short overhangs, long and low hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior of the CX-30 was a highlight, offering a level of style and refinement comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid took a more conservative approach to styling, drawing inspiration from the popular RAV4. This resulted in a larger, more spacious vehicle with seating for up to eight and ample cargo space. The interior of the Grand Highlander emphasized functionality, with a focus on practicality over form. While the Platinum trim added a layer of luxury, the use of glossy hard plastics and unlined storage surfaces was evident. The climate system was straightforward, but the infotainment interface had some usability issues, such as a small volume knob and the absence of a tuning knob.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these impressive figures, the power delivery was smooth and gradual, creating a sensation akin to surfing. The six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard all-wheel-drive system ensured power was distributed to all four wheels. However, the CX-30's fuel economy was a drawback, with an observed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous evaluation route, falling short of the EPA's 25 mpg combined estimate. The small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited the driving range to around 270 miles.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max, on the other hand, combined a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with electronic full-time AWD and two electric motors, producing 362 horsepower. This setup allowed the Grand Highlander to accelerate swiftly, aided by a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. While the Hybrid Max sacrificed some fuel efficiency, achieving 27 mpg combined, it offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. During testing, the Hybrid Max averaged 23.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The powertrain's acceleration was smooth, and the ride quality was soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a modest point.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, the design was marked by quality materials and logical controls. The three-gauge, partial digital instrumentation was a standout feature, and the traditional PRNDL shifter was easy to operate. The cabin featured gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding a splash of color. However, the interior space was cramped, particularly in the back seat. The cargo area offered 20.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating across all three rows, with nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery, adding an upscale touch. The second-row captain's chairs allowed for easy access to the third row, which offered reasonable comfort for adults and tall teens. Cargo space behind the third row measured 20.6 cubic feet, expanding to 97.5 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. However, the screen's placement far from the driver and passenger was a drawback. The system included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and new USB-C ports for connectivity. Higher trims offered a wireless smartphone charger and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trims. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various Toyota Connected Services. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, and the Platinum trim included features like a head-up display and a JBL premium audio system. However, the infotainment system's low-contrast font and inability to display multiple main-menu screens simultaneously were noted as frustrations.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a new rear-seat alert system. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a five-star overall rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a range of standard safety features and driver-assistance technologies. While the safety tech operated with accuracy, the Proactive Driving Assist system was found to be irritating. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS's Top Safety Pick rating due to "Acceptable" ratings for headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection.