The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Punchy yet efficient hybrid powertrain Comfortable ride Upscale interior Many standard tech and safety features
Cons Cramped third row Relatively high starting price
The Highlander is all new for 2020 and is vastly improved compared with the 2019 model it replaces. Next year, a sportier-looking XSE model will join the lineup.
Pros Handsomely styled, fuel-sipping hybrid option, well equipped even at the base level.
Cons Boring driving dynamics, snug third-row passenger space, busy dashboard design
The Highlander is fully redesigned for 2020.Hybrid now uses a four-cylinder instead of a V6.A little less power than before, but much better fuel economy.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Strong fuel economy estimates of 35-36 mpg combined Available all-wheel drive for all models Sensibly priced compared to the non-hybrid Highlander Plenty of standard and available safety features
Cons Third-row seats are small, even for kids Engine noise is noticeably unrefined Interior design already looks dated
