Mazda
CX-9
Owner report available
Toyota
Highlander
Owner report available
Mazda CX-9 vs Toyota Highlander
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Highlander comes out ahead of the Mazda CX-9 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
CX-9
Overall
Predominantly positive sentiment, with the vehicle widely praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, premium interior feel, and strong value proposition. Long-term owner reports consistently highlight its car-like, sporty handling, comfortable and quiet cabin, and upscale styling as key strengths. The consensus indicates high satisfaction among owners who prioritize driving enjoyment and a premium experience in a three-row family SUV.
Best version to buy
Higher trims such as Grand Touring and Signature are frequently mentioned for maximizing luxury features, premium materials, and technology content. The Signature trim, in particular, is associated with a highly upscale interior experience.
Known issues
- Cylinder head cracking / coolant leak in 2.5T engine: A design/manufacturing defect leading to coolant leaking into the engine, potentially causing catastrophic failure.
- High oil consumption in some later models: Mentioned alongside the cylinder head issue as a potential problem for some vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
- Wide turning radius: Noted as requiring adjustment due to the vehicle's length. Frequency: isolated.
Highlander
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. The Highlander is widely recognized as a reliable, practical, and comfortable family SUV, praised for its solid build quality, good ride comfort, and strong resale value. Long-term owners of older generations, particularly those with V6 engines and 6-speed automatics, report exceptional reliability with minimal issues.
Best version to buy
For gas models, the 2015-2016 model years are very frequently recommended as the peak of reliability, featuring a proven V6 and 6-speed automatic. For newer models, the Hybrid variant is overwhelmingly recommended over the gas-only version due to its reliable eCVT transmission, superior fuel economy, and avoidance of the problematic 8-speed automatic.
Known issues
- 8-speed automatic transmission failures (whining, complete failure): Primarily affects non-hybrid (gas) models from approximately 2017-2022. Repair costs are reported to be around $7,000+. Frequency: very frequent.
- Transmission problems in gas models: General reports of issues, clunkiness, and unreliability with the 8-speed automatic in model years 2017-2022, and isolated mentions for 2023. Frequency: very frequent.
- Engine transition concerns: Apprehension about the long-term reliability of the newer turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine compared to the older, proven 3.5L V6. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Toyota Highlander is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mazda CX-9, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mazda CX-9 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-9 or the Toyota Highlander?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Mazda CX-9 and the Toyota Highlander. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Mazda CX-9 or the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander seats more passengers than the Mazda CX-9 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Mazda CX-9 is classed as a SUV, the Toyota Highlander as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mazda CX-9 or the Toyota Highlander?
The EPA rates the 2023 Mazda CX-9 at 23 mpg combined and the 2026 Toyota Highlander at 24–35 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mazda CX-9 or the Toyota Highlander?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Toyota Highlander than the Mazda CX-9. See the known issues comparison above.