The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV vs. the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid: Here’s how these two newcomers match up

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

The Mazda
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CX-90 PHEV has a secret, and it’s part of its name. This Mazda isn’t just a hybrid; it’s a plug-in hybrid, or PHEV. That means it can travel on electricity alone without using a drop of gasoline. In the case of the CX-90 PHEV, it can travel up to 26 miles on electricity. When the battery is depleted, a gasoline engine kicks in, allowing you to drive hundreds of miles more. Pricing starts at $47,445.

Learn more: What is EV, BEV, HEV, PHEV? Here’s your guide to types of electric cars

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV highlights

More power: The CX-90 PHEV puts out a combined 323 horsepower — quite a bit more robust than the Grand Highlander Hybrid’s 245 horsepower. However, you can upgrade to the Hybrid MAX, featuring an impressive 362 hp — for a nominal fee.

Plug-in capability: If you don’t want to use gasoline at all, the CX-90 has enough electric-only range for errands around town.

Standard AWD: The Grand Highlander Hybrid offers all-wheel drive (AWD), but you must pay for it. In the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, that extra grip comes standard.

Read more: The handsome new 2024 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid SUV breaks new ground for the car maker

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The Toyota
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Grand Highlander Hybrid can be thought of as an extra-large version of the venerable Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Both offer 3-row seating for up to eight passengers, but the Grand Highlander Hybrid has more room to spread out — especially in the third row — along with enhanced cargo space. Best of all, the Grand Highlander Hybrid earns up to 36 mpg combined for those seeking high fuel efficiency. Prices start at $44,670.

Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid highlights

More power: The Toyota Grand Highlander offers a more powerful hybrid than the Mazda CX-90, but it comes at a price — $10,000.

More range: If you’re not exactly a fan of gas stations, you’ll love this Toyota. The Grand Highlander Hybrid can go up to 619 miles between fill-ups, according to the EPA.

Lower price: The Grand Highlander Hybrid, with the 245 hp powertrain, starts at $2,775 less than the Mazda CX-90 PHEV.

Also see: The all-new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander: This 3-row midsize SUV offers expanded cabin space and a broad choice of trims

Similarities

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV and Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid carry as many as eight passengers, feature the latest tech and safety features, and boast high efficiency.

Plus: Here’s how 6 of the best 3-row midsize SUVs ranked in a comparison test

Conclusion

With these two offerings, you’re looking at the classic battle of efficiency and power against space and comfort. The Mazda CX-90 can be driven around in electric-only mode long enough to handle most errands while using that additional horsepower for longer trips as well. However, the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is tough to ignore if your primary need is room for people and cargo. It’s clear that one’s needs will be the driving force in your selection here.

Read about the gas-only Mazda CX-90 here.

Specifications

This story originally ran on KBB.com.