Mazda CX-90 MHEV Vehicle Comparison: Highlander, Pilot, Telluride, and Palisade
Mazda CX-90 MHEV Vehicle Comparison: Highlander, Pilot, Telluride, and Palisade
Posted on June 13, 2024
Choosing the right midsize SUV can be challenging, given the number of capable options available in the market. The 2025 Mazda CX-90 MHEV has made waves with its stylish design, hybrid powertrain, and cutting-edge features. How does it stack up against its competitors, like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade? Let's take a closer look at how these SUVs compare in terms of performance, design, technology, and safety.
Performance and Powertrain
Mazda CX-90 MHEV
The Mazda CX-90 MHEV stands out with its inline-six mild hybrid engine, producing impressive power while maintaining fuel efficiency. It generates 280 horsepower with a 3.3-litre engine. This hybrid system enhances performance without compromising on eco-friendly credentials. Its smooth acceleration and well-balanced handling make it an enjoyable drive, both in urban settings and on long highways.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Highlander’s hybrid version is known for its dependable 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors, producing a combined 265 horsepower. While it's fuel-efficient and reliable, the Highlander's power output feels modest compared to the CX-90's more robust performance. However, it shines with its excellent fuel economy, making it a favourite for those who prioritize efficiency over power.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot leans more toward traditional V6 power rather than hybrid technology. A 3.5-litre V6 engine generating 285 horsepower provides strong performance but falls behind in terms of eco-friendly features. The Pilot's consistent performance and smooth transmission appeal to those not committed to hybrid technology.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is generated by a 3.8-litre V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower. While it’s robust and delivers ample power, the lack of a hybrid option means it may not appeal to those looking for greener driving solutions. The Telluride’s performance is reliable and suitable for a range of driving conditions but lacks the hybrid efficiency of the CX-90 MHEV.
Hyundai Palisade
Similar to the Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade boasts a 3.8-litre V6 engine with 291 horsepower. The Palisade offers steady performance with a comfortable ride, but without a hybrid option, it doesn’t compete with the eco-conscious appeal of the CX-90 MHEV.
Design and Interior Comfort
Mazda CX-90 MHEV
The Mazda CX-90 MHEV excels in design with its luxurious interior and meticulous attention to detail. Premium materials like Nappa leather and authentic wood trim create an upscale cabin experience that rivals luxury SUVs. The three-row configuration ensures ample passenger space, while the modern infotainment system and panoramic roof add to its refined feel.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander offers a practical and family-friendly interior with high-quality materials. Although the cabin is comfortable, it lacks the luxury touches seen in the CX-90. Its third-row seating is functional but less spacious, making it better suited for children or shorter trips.
Honda Pilot
Honda’s Pilot boasts a roomy interior with ample seating for up to eight passengers. Its cabin is designed with practicality in mind, featuring easily accessible controls and flexible storage options. However, the Pilot’s interior doesn’t match the premium feel of the CX-90, focusing more on functionality than elegance.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has gained appeal for its upscale interior that exceeds its price range. With soft-touch materials and a spacious layout, it provides a comfortable ride for passengers. While it competes well in terms of design, it offers a different level of refinement than the CX-90 MHEV.
Hyundai Palisade
The Palisade’s cabin is known for its comfort and thoughtful design, featuring high-end materials and advanced technology. It’s comparable to the Telluride, offering generous space and well-appointed seating. However, the CX-90 still edges out with more luxurious finishes and an elegant design aesthetic.
Technology and Infotainment
Mazda CX-90 MHEV
The CX-90 MHEV comes with state-of-the-art technology, including a large centre display compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch head-up display, and an available 12-speaker Bose sound system. Its user-friendly interface, advanced connectivity features and electrification can enhance the driving experience.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander’s infotainment system includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen (upgradeable to a 12.3-inch display) with smartphone integration. It also offers a range of standard tech features, but the CX-90's more comprehensive system and premium audio options surpass its overall experience.
Honda Pilot
Honda’s Pilot includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen with smartphone compatibility, but it needs to offer the advanced infotainment options seen in the CX-90. While it covers the basics well, tech-savvy drivers may find it lacking in cutting-edge features.
Kia Telluride
The Telluride's infotainment system boasts a 12.3-inch display, offering crisp graphics and an intuitive layout. It also includes a robust suite of tech features, making it a solid contender. However, the CX-90's HMI offers seamless technology integration, giving it a slight edge.
Hyundai Palisade
The Palisade features a user-friendly infotainment system with an available 12.3-inch display and premium audio options. Its innovative features stand out but are still overshadowed by the CX-90's superior tech integration and luxury feel.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Mazda CX-90 MHEV
Mazda's dedication to safety can be seen in the CX-90 MHEV, which is equipped with a full suite of driver-assist features. This includes blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The CX-90 also features Mazda's i-Activsense technology, which provides advanced safety enhancements and peace of mind on every journey.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander offers Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes a robust set of safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Its safety features are robust and match well with those in the CX-90, offering reliable protection and peace of mind.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot comes with Honda Sensing, which includes essential safety features such as collision mitigation braking and road departure mitigation. While reliable, Mazda lacks some of the more advanced options that Mazda includes with its i-Activsense package.
Kia Telluride
The Telluride’s safety suite includes forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It’s well-equipped, offering excellent safety features comparable to the CX-90. However, Mazda’s reputation for meticulous safety engineering gives the CX-90 an extra advantage.
Hyundai Palisade
The Palisade features an array of safety technologies, such as rear cross-traffic collision avoidance and highway driving assist. Its safety offerings are competitive, but the CX-90's i-Activsense package provides a more tailored and dynamic safety experience.
Vehicle Comparison Table
| Name | Mazda CX-90 MHEV | Highlander | Pilot | Telluride | Palisade | ||||
| Engine power | 280 horsepower | 265 horsepower | 285 horsepower | 291 horsepower | 291 horsepower | ||||
| Engine Torque |
|
|
262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | ||||
| Infotainment | 12-speaker Bose Audio System | 11 Speaker JBL Audio System | 7.0-inch Display | 12.3-inch Display | Six Speakers | ||||
| Fuel Efficiency (HWY) | 8.4 L/100 km | 8.6 L/100 km | 9.3 L/100 km | 10.0 L/100km | 9.7 L/100 km | ||||
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | ||||||||
| Cargo Capacity (rear seats folded | 2129-litres | 2,387-litres | 3,166-litres | 1,304-litres | 2,447-litres | ||||
| Pricing | $39,300* | $53,275* | $55,486* | $53,480* | $53,820* | ||||
Experience the 2025 Mazda CX-90 MHEV Today!
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 MHEV sets itself apart with luxurious design, hybrid efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive safety features. If you're looking for an SUV that offers a balance of power, eco-friendly performance, and premium comfort, the CX-90 is an excellent choice. Visit Angevaree Mazda in Peterborough to see why the CX-90 MHEV stands out among competitors like the Highlander, Pilot, Telluride, and Palisade. Schedule a test drive today and explore how Mazda’s commitment to innovation and electrification can enhance your driving experience!