Mazda CX-90 vs Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander are natural cross-shop rivals, both offering three-row family utility in the $35,000–$40,000 used range with strong brand reputations. Mazda targets buyers craving a more premium, driver-focused experience while Toyota counters with legendary reliability and resale dominance. Understanding the true five-year cost difference — not just sticker price — can save shoppers thousands.
The CX-90's superior fuel economy (especially in its plug-in hybrid trim), lower insurance premiums, and competitive depreciation curve edge out the Highlander's slightly higher resale retention, resulting in a meaningfully lower five-year total cost of ownership for most buyers.
2024 Mazda CX-90
Winner- Best-in-class inline-6 fuel efficiency at ~26 mpg combined reduces monthly fuel spend
- Lower average insurance premiums than the Highlander due to smaller market footprint and theft stats
- Mazda's reliability trajectory has improved sharply — lower unscheduled repair frequency than segment average
- PHEV trim requires more expensive 12,000-mile service intervals and specialized battery maintenance costs
- Less established long-term reliability data vs Toyota for the turbocharged inline-6 platform
- Smaller dealer network can mean higher labor costs and longer wait times for warranty repairs
2024 Toyota Highlander
- Exceptional resale value — Highlanders retain roughly 55–58% of value after 5 years
- Massive dealer network keeps routine maintenance competitive and convenient
- Proven 2GR-FKS V6 engine with 15+ years of reliability data minimizes surprise repair bills
- V6 returns only ~21 mpg combined city/highway, adding ~$400/year more in fuel vs CX-90
- Higher insurance premiums driven by elevated theft rates and widespread popularity
- Scheduled maintenance costs slightly above Mazda due to Toyota's dealer-recommended service pricing
Category by category
The verdict
Over five years the Mazda CX-90 costs roughly $3,500 less to own than the Toyota Highlander at similar used prices, driven primarily by better fuel economy and lower insurance. Toyota fights back with superior resale value and unmatched reliability pedigree, making it the safer long-term bet if you plan to keep the vehicle 7–10 years. For most buyers on a 3–5 year ownership cycle, the CX-90 delivers better value with a more engaging ownership experience.
Mazda CX-90: The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is ideal for the driver-oriented buyer who wants a near-luxury feel, strong fuel economy, and lower day-to-day running costs without paying a European luxury premium.
Toyota Highlander: The 2024 Toyota Highlander suits buyers who prioritize long-term reliability confidence, maximum resale protection, and a cavernous interior for large families or frequent road trippers.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda CX-90 as reliable as the Toyota Highlander?
The Highlander has a longer proven track record, but the CX-90 has earned strong early reliability scores from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power — the gap is real but smaller than it was for older Mazda models.
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-90 or Highlander?
The CX-90 wins convincingly at ~26 mpg combined versus the Highlander's ~21 mpg combined, saving roughly $400–$500 per year at current national average gas prices.
Does the Toyota Highlander hold its value better than the Mazda CX-90?
Yes — Highlanders typically retain 55–58% of their value after five years versus 50–53% for the CX-90, though both are above the three-row SUV segment average.
Which is cheaper to insure, the CX-90 or the Highlander?
The CX-90 is generally cheaper to insure by $15–$25 per month because of lower theft rates and a smaller claims pool compared to the perennially popular Highlander.
Is the Mazda CX-90 PHEV worth it for cost savings?
If you can charge at home and drive mostly city miles, the CX-90 PHEV's 26-mile electric range can cut fuel costs dramatically, but the higher initial purchase price typically requires 4–5 years to break even over the standard turbo model.