The 2019 Toyota Highlander ranked #14 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Toyota Highlander has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 47 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable and quiet Stylish cabin with first-rate materials Lots of standard advanced safety features Optional V6 engine is robust and fuel-efficient
Cons Confining third-row seat So-so standard four-cylinder engine
The 2019 Toyota Highlander delivers safety, features, comfort, and efficiency in a family-friendly package.
Pros Comfortable cabin Strong V-6 Miserly hybrid Luxurious ride quality
Cons Not pretty Weak base 4-cylinder No Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Third row's just average
Only minor styling revisions for 2019.The 2019 Toyota Highlander comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed shiftable automatic.
PROS Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with good fuel economy Quiet and pleasantly compliant ride
CONS Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those in many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't offered Weak power delivery of the base four-cylinder engine
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.
