Key Takeaways
- Both the 2026 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander are excellent three-row SUVs — the right choice depends on YOUR priorities
- Mazda CX-90 strengths: inline-six turbo, near-luxury driving dynamics, premium interior
- Toyota Highlander strengths: better fuel economy with turbo hybrid, stronger resale value
- Neither is objectively "better" — test drive both before deciding
Overview
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander represent two of the strongest entries in the three-row SUV segment. Both deliver genuine quality and capability, but they approach the market from different angles. The Mazda CX-90 leads with inline-six turbo, while the Toyota Highlander counters with better fuel economy with turbo hybrid. Understanding these differences helps you make the right choice for your specific situation.
Mazda CX-90: Core Strengths
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 builds its case around inline-six turbo, near-luxury driving dynamics, premium interior. In daily use, these advantages translate to a vehicle that feels purposeful and well-sorted. The CX-90 has been refined to excel in the areas that matter most to its target buyer, and the 2026 model year sharpens those strengths further.
Where the CX-90 clearly leads: inline-six turbo, near-luxury driving dynamics, premium interior. These aren't marketing claims — they're advantages you'll notice in the first week of ownership and continue to appreciate over years of use.
Toyota Highlander: Core Strengths
The 2026 Toyota Highlander takes a different approach, prioritizing better fuel economy with turbo hybrid, stronger resale value. This philosophy permeates the entire ownership experience, from the way the Highlander feels on your daily commute to how it handles a weekend road trip. The 2026 model builds on these foundations with targeted improvements.
Where the Highlander leads: better fuel economy with turbo hybrid, stronger resale value. If these priorities rank highest on your list, the Highlander is the stronger choice in these specific areas.
Interior and Technology
Both vehicles offer modern infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, comprehensive safety suites, and comfortable daily-driver ergonomics. The 2026 model year brings updated software and expanded connectivity features to both. Material quality, control layout, and tech integration differ in ways that matter — spend time in both cabins to determine which philosophy suits you better.
Safety
Both the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander come standard with comprehensive driver-assistance packages. Automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are standard fare. The 2026 model year expands these capabilities with improved sensors and additional scenarios covered by the safety systems.
Value and Cost of Ownership
Compare beyond MSRP. Factor in projected resale value (significant over 3-5 years of ownership), insurance costs, expected maintenance intervals, fuel or electricity costs, and available incentives. A vehicle that costs more upfront but holds value better may actually cost less to own.
Our Verdict
Choose the Mazda CX-90 if you prioritize inline-six turbo. The CX-90 excels here convincingly.
Choose the Toyota Highlander if you prioritize better fuel economy with turbo hybrid. The Highlander's advantage in this area is genuine and meaningful.
Can't decide? Test drive both on the same day, on your actual routes. The right choice usually becomes clear when you stop comparing specs and start comparing experiences.