Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle was a top-tier Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Changes for 2023 were minimal, with a new Cypress Green paint and standard power-folding mirrors on Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was criticized for being overly styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior, despite being quiet on the road, was noted for its lack of quality, with mismatched textures and inexpensive-feeling controls.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model debut in 2017, which had aged well and remained appealing. The test vehicle was a new Carbon Turbo trim, featuring Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats. Mazda improved fuel economy for base engine versions and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with prices ranging from $29,300 to $40,600, plus destination. The Carbon Turbo test vehicle was priced at $39,355. The CX-5 was praised for its upscale interior materials and overall value, offering a premium feel at a mainstream price.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. The AWD version added a third electric motor for the rear wheels. Despite its power, the Highlander Hybrid struggled with high-speed passing and towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with an additional Trail mode for AWD models. However, its 8.0 inches of ground clearance and electric AWD were best suited for winter weather traction. The Predictive Efficient Drive system aimed to maximize fuel efficiency but fell short, with the test vehicle averaging 28.7 mpg compared to the EPA's 35 mpg estimate. The Highlander Hybrid was described as uninspiring to drive, with a soft suspension and a noisy CVT.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, though it wasn't fuel-efficient, averaging 22.9 mpg compared to the EPA's 24 mpg estimate. The CX-5 offered excellent outward visibility and a confident driving experience. Mazda's suspension tuning and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology improved ride quality and handling, making the CX-5 enjoyable to drive in various conditions. With 7.9 inches of ground clearance, it could handle well-traveled trails and tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was designed to accommodate seven or eight passengers, though the third row was best for occasional use. Standard features included three-zone automatic climate control, with heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs in the test vehicle. The interior offered power-adjustable front seats and second-row sunshades. However, the third row was difficult to access and uncomfortable for adults. The Highlander Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. Storage areas were unlined, and the center console design was unnecessarily complex.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable and supportive heated front seats, with six-way power adjustment for the driver. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top-tier model. The rear seat offered good support and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. The CX-5's cabin design and quality were likened to luxury vehicles, though interior space was smaller compared to rivals. It provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seat folded.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display on upper trims. The infotainment system featured an 8.0-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, and SiriusXM. Connected services included Wi-Fi Connect and Remote Connect, with Drive Connect offering advanced features like natural voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle had a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system, though the graphics could be improved for better visibility.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console-mounted knob and buttons. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and emergency dialing. The Carbon Turbo model included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, enhancing the premium feel of the interior.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Hybrids also had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Limited and Platinum trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though not in 2024, and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating.