2018 Mazda CX-9 vs 2018 Toyota Highlander near Santa Rosa Beach, FL
If you’re looking for a midsize crossover, then you’re probably looking for something with outstanding performance, as well as the latest in entertainment and safety advancements. Mazda of Fort Walton Beach is excited to offer the 2018 Mazda CX-9 as the solution that checks all the boxes! To help demonstrate its value, we’re comparing the Mazda CX-9 to one of its competitors, the 2018 Toyota Highlander.
We’ll first compare the standard powertrains that these crossovers come equipped with at the basic trim level. In one corner we have the Mazda CX-9, with its 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing an incredible 227-hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. In the other corner, the Highlander’s 2.7L 4-cylinder engine can only generate 185-hp and 186 lb.-ft. of torque, falling short of the standard set by the Mazda. Indeed, with the crossover from Mazda, you’ll have a towing capacity1 of 3,500 lb., while the Toyota Highlander can only offer a 1,500-lb. towing capacity1 at the standard trim. It’s clear that with the 2018 Mazda CX-9, you’ll be able to haul more without having to upgrade to a more expensive edition! At the conclusion of round one, it seems that this capable crossover is well-ahead of the vehicle from Toyota.
Though both vehicles offer various features to enhance your interior entertainment, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 sweetens the deal by providing a generously-apportioned cabin as well. Whether you choose the Highlander or Mazda CX-9, you’ll have access to advancements like Bluetooth®2 compatibly for streaming music and making hands-free calls. However, only the crossover from Mazda also provides access to standard HD Radio™ at the basic trim level. You’ll have to upgrade to a higher trim entirely to get the same thing in the Toyota Highlander. Moreover, your passengers in the second- and third-rows will appreciate having more legroom in the Mazda, with 39.4 in and 29.7 in. of space, compared to 38.4 in. and 27.7 in. in the Highlander. You’ll definitely notice the difference on those long trips after a few hours on the road!
You’ll also be glad to know that you’ll be protected from the unpredictable, thanks to the plethora of safety features working to keep you safe. While both vehicles offer systems like standard Dynamic Stability Control3, the Mazda offers more as standard components than the Toyota. In the Mazda CX-9, you can rely on the standard Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring4 to warn you of vehicles hidden from your range of view so you know when it’s safe to merge. You’ll also have the benefit of standard Rear Cross Traffic Alert4, which lets you know when vehicles are approaching to help make pulling out of tight spaces easier. For access to these features in the Highlander, you’ll once again have to spring for a more expensive trim.
Once you compare the 2018 Mazda CX-9 vs 2018 Toyota Highlander near Santa Rosa Beach, FL, there’s no doubt that the Mazda CX-9 offers more value. See what we mean by visiting Mazda of Fort Walton Beach for a test drive today! Our friendly staff is looking forward to meeting you!