2024 CX-90 Model Competitor Comparison: vs. Toyota Highlander, vs. Honda Pilot, vs. Acura MDX

The CX-90 makes an excellent impression, successfully addressing all significant areas. For the best experience, we suggest the Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus. Let's not, however, jump the gun. The Highlander. Pilot and MDX still need to be examined. Let's start with the Toyota Highlander and see how it compares.

The Highlander looks good on paper, but does it perform as well in reality? The all-new turbo engine is an excellent match for Toyota's three-row vehicle. But the 2024 Highlander does not go further than some minimal changes. This doesn't make the Toyota SUV awful; it makes it difficult to stand out amid fierce competition.

 

These SUVs are massive, but the Highlander isn't; it's considerably smaller than anticipated. The Toyota three-row is among the smallest and narrowest of the four comparisons. You can see it more, especially without the extra bumper of the XSE model. The Highlander's interior still has little space, but you may contrast that with the vivid red leather interior.

 

There are no complaints about the front-row experience. The leather seats are supportive of the driving stance of a Toyota. Problems occur in the middle row due to a bump in the headliner directly at eye level. The rear row, on the other hand, can make even average-sized individuals seem as if they're shrinking. When the red leather is chosen, it does not extend throughout, showing Toyota's lack of attention to detail. The Grand Highlander may have more elbow room at a more significant expense. And bear in mind that the Grand Highlander is not a Highlander.

 

Concerns about the Highlander's powertrain are unfounded. The 2.4-liter turbo has mid-range solid power and more torque (310 lb-ft) but not more than the Mazda CX-90. The CX-90 has smoother shifts and quicker reflexes than the gearbox in the Pilot or MDX. Not to mention that the eight-speed automatic is also an excellent touch. Torque model, giving it an additional level of sporty pretensions. The 2024 Toyota Highlander is one of the most gratifying SUVs in this comparison. Although it ranks high, you likely won't feel the difference while making a quick trip to the grocery store or school drop-offs.

 

Additionally, it is among the most fuel-efficient SUVs. The Highlander's official combined fuel economy rating is 24 mpg (9.9 L/100 km), almost on par with the Pilot and MDX highway rating. The Highlander barely reached over 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km) but does outperform all but the CX-90.

 

With its most recent infotainment, Toyota has jumped ahead of the competition and moved from last to first. The updated system is simple to use and has precise navigation as long as the subscription is active. However, radio explorers may find the absence of a tuning knob difficult. The 8.0-inch screen's modest size can result in some crowded menus, such as Sirius XM.

 

Unfortunately, this mid-range model has one of the smallest equipment lists available. A hands-free liftgate, ventilated seats, and a fully digital instrument panel are all options. But most amenities are only available on the highest trim level. However, Toyota gets marks for not gatekeeping its lengthy array of driving aids.

The XSE offers inferior material quality; this lower trim lacks the abundant components of its rivals. You can tell by the interior being primarily made of matte black plastic. The Highlander's new infotainment system and engine are quality upgrades. However, in this extensive comparison, it still seems like a half-size smaller.
 

Honda is one of the few manufacturers in this class still providing a naturally aspirated V6 engine. Many people have switched to turbocharged four-cylinder engines since massive six-cylinder engines may feel strained and overworked. That's not the case with the Pilot, though. Honda's 3.5-liter V6 only has 285 horsepower, which places it in the middle of this comparison. However, regarding actual usage, it does have an acceptable drivetrain. The ease and smoothness with which the engine revs has much to do with this. Additionally, the 10-speed automatic transmission has the most gears of any car in this comparison and operates smoothly.

 

It's back—the box. Yes, Honda went back to the drawing board last year with the all-new 2023 Pilot, giving it a rugged, boxy appearance once more following the rounder, curvier last-generation Pilot. That appearance carries through to the 2024  Pilot, which does shine once more in terms of riding comfort. The Pilot excels in this comparison, absorbing bumps quickly, isolating vibrations, and providing a comfortable ride for all passengers. Additionally, the above-average handling is not compromised by the soft suspension. With that said, it does not outperform the CX-90 but is not trailing far behind.

 

Honda has adopted the "bigger is better" philosophy with this recent Pilot generation. The second-largest vehicle in our evaluation provides the most passenger and cargo room. Regarding passenger comfort in the second and third rows, it came second to the 2024 Mazda CX-90. It again finished in second place for simplicity and flexibility of load handling.

 

Although the cabin is logically organized, we suggest a few extra physical controls for the infotainment screen. Every car is flawed, and a few things are against the Pilot. The cost is the first consideration. The large, rev-happy V6 also consumes a lot of fuel, putting the 2024 Honda Pilot lower in our comparison list. Finally, when it comes to the interior, it has a more relaxed appearance and feel than similarly priced rivals.

In conclusion, the newest SUV from Honda is a fantastic new car after the CX-90. But does it defeat the MDX or Highlander? We must first review one more rival before giving a finale.

The Acura MDX has established itself as a dependable family hauler. However, with more SUVs in their lineups, many automakers are stepping up the battle, the most recent being the Mazda CX-90. Compared to the well-known Acura MDX, Mazda may become a superior choice given its recent focus on luxury and tasteful design.

 

There are two different engine choices. The 3.5 liter V-6's standard output is 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0 liter turbocharged V-6 comes standard with particular handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD), 354 pound-feet of torque, and 355 horsepower. However, the latter engine is only available for Type S cars.

 

The 2024 Acura MDX is the most powerful within this comparison. The fuel economy, however, is a drawback to having more power. The MDX's estimated EPA for the standard engine is 19 MPG in the city, 25 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG overall. Type S - estimated EPA ratings are 17 MPG in the city, 21 on the highway, and 19 overall. The MDX is undoubtedly a very competent and agile SUV despite its size and weight, even if the fuel efficiency isn't the best in its class.

The interior of the MDX is full of features and luxuries like heated and ventilated seats, massaging seats, and leather upholstery. The second-row seats are spacious, as they are in the CX-90. But the third-row seats need to be more significant for adults to be comfortable, with 36.2 inches of headroom and only 29 inches of legroom. The MDX includes a big 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all models.

 

Although aesthetics are a matter of opinion, the MDX, especially the Type S model, has a sportier and more distinctive appearance. However, the Acura does not provide a hybrid powertrain. Therefore, Mazda has the advantage of offering  the first-ever Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) model as well. 

We've reviewed the 2024 Mazda CX-90 vs. Competitors to see that although the Highlander, Pilot, and MDX have their perks, they can't compete. When you look at the overall capabilities that the 2024 Mazda CX-90 offers, why choose any other SUV? From looks, style, performance, and hybrid options, the CX-90 does not disappoint. Of course, your preferences matter and will make or break the comparisons for your lifestyle. However, no one can deny the many amenities, comforts, and savings the CX-90 brings to Waldwick roads.

See for yourself the greatness a 2024 CX-90 entails. Our Mazda CX-90 comparison can help stop you from having to sift through hours of research. Instead, we hope our competitor comparison helps Midland Park drivers save time and money getting behind the best SUV to date, the 2024 Mazda CX-90.