MAZDA CX-90 PHEV vs. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV, the brand’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, pairs a 2.5L engine with a 68-kW electric motor for 323 horsepower (HP) and 369 lb-ft of torque—delivering quick acceleration and confident power on grades or during merges. In contrast, the Highlander’s 2.5L engine/dual electric motor setup produces just 243 HP. It lacks the torque of the Mazda, which can be especially noticeable when you’re carrying passengers and gear.

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV comes standard with i-Activ AWD® and Mazda intelligent Drive Select for smooth, confident control in all types of road and weather conditions. While the Highlander Hybrid also offers AWD and drive modes, it lacks Mazda’s available dedicated Towing mode. Both can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped—ideal for bringing along a small camper, bikes, a lightweight boat, or a trailer packed with vacation gear.

Thanks to its plug-in capability, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV can drive up to 26 miles on pure electric power. * In practical terms, that’s sufficient for most of your weekday commutes to be emission-free, saving gas and reducing wear on the engine. It’s a quiet, smooth drive when in EV mode—perfect for early-morning coffee runs. Without the possibility for electric-only driving, the Highlander Hybrid will consume gas, even on short drives.

Range and charging ease are key for EV drivers, and the Mazda CX-90 PHEV delivers with up to 490 miles of total range on a single charge.* You can recharge to 80% overnight in less than seven hours using a standard outlet, or cut that time to just 90 minutes with a Level 2 home charger or public station, making it easy to keep your EV powered up with minimal downtime.

In the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: athleticism and elegance. Its long hood, muscular profile, and minimalist lines exude a sleek and confident stance. Meanwhile, the Highlander Hybrid takes the tact of function over form in its classic and, some may say, more conservative appearance. With the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, it's not merely utilitarian; it also brings the curb appeal.

Both models feature LED exterior lighting for enhanced visibility and rear privacy glass for added discretion. Roof rails come standard, too, ready for bikes, cargo, or adventure gear. While the Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers wheels ranging from 18 to 20 inches, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV ups the ante with standard 19-inch wheels and bold options up to 21 inches for a more commanding presence.

Step inside the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, and you’re welcomed by a thoughtfully crafted cabin designed to elevate every drive. Premium materials, a clean layout, and supportive seating create an environment that feels refined and family-ready.

Even long drives with restless kids feel more manageable when you’re surrounded by comfort. It shares many of the same amenities as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, including multi-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and 3-zone automatic climate control.

However, only the Mazda CX-90 PHEV comes standard with genuine leather-trimmed seats for a truly elevated touch. In contrast, the Highlander Hybrid features Toyota’s synthetic SofTex® seating surfaces.

Interior space is another key part of the experience, especially for third-row passengers. Mazda once again offers a noticeable edge:

With more space for passengers in the back, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV may be the more comfortable choice for growing families or drivers who regularly carry a full crew.

No matter if you’re commuting, road-tripping, or just running errands, staying connected matters. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV and the Highlander Hybrid make it easy with Bluetooth®, plus standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. However, Mazda raises the bar by including more advanced tech features as standard—even on the base trim:

The Highlander Hybrid also offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, but only as an upgrade.

When it comes to premium audio, both models are here to increase your enjoyment on the road, but Mazda takes it a step further. The Highlander Hybrid offers an 11-speaker JBL system, while the Mazda CX-90 PHEV delivers a 12-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® Surround Sound System with AudioPilot®, designed to create a truly immersive listening experience.

Few features matter more than the ones designed to help protect you and your passengers. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid embrace a “safety first” philosophy, offering similar robust suites of advanced driver-assist technologies: i-Activsense® and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, respectively.

For the latest model year, both SUVs earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, only the Mazda CX-90 PHEV received five stars in both Frontal Crash and Rollover categories; the Highlander Hybrid earned just four stars in those areas.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also recognized Mazda’s superior safety performance, naming the Mazda CX-90 PHEV a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+—a distinction not awarded to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.