2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

When it comes to three-row SUVs that deliver luxury, performance, and versatility, the competition is fierce. Two standout contenders in this space are the all-new 2026 Mazda CX-90 and the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander. While both vehicles promise to meet the demands of growing families while offering premium features and reliable performance, one clear winner emerges for Charlotte drivers seeking the perfect blend of sophistication and capability. At Independence Mazda, your Community-Driven Mazda Dealer in Charlotte, we’re here to take an honest look at both vehicles, examining their strengths and features across multiple categories.

Overview of Each Model

2026 Mazda CX-90

The all-new CX-90 is Mazda’s flagship three-row SUV, combining the brand’s signature Kodo design philosophy with premium craftsmanship and innovative engineering. Starting at an MSRP of $38,800, the CX-90 offers exceptional value with its standard all-wheel drive system and available plug-in hybrid powertrain. With EPA-estimated 25 combined MPG and seating for up to eight passengers, this vehicle is engineered for both efficiency and family adventures.

2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

On the otherhand, Toyota’s Grand Highlander enters the three-row SUV market with a starting MSRP of $41,360, positioning itself as a spacious family hauler. Available in gas, hybrid, and Hybrid MAX configurations, the Grand Highlander seats up to eight passengers and focuses on Toyota’s reputation for reliability and practicality.

Exterior Features & Size

Size Comparison

• Length
  • CX-90: 201.6 in.
  • Grand Highlander: 201.4 in.
• Width
  • CX-90: 84.9 in.
  • Grand Highlander: 78.3
• Height
  • CX-90: 68.3 in.
  • Grand Highlander: 70.1
• Ground Clearance
  • CX-90: 8 in.
  • Grand Highlander: 8 in.

The CX-90’s wider stance (84.9″ vs 78.3″) provides better stability and a more commanding road presence, while its lower profile (68.3″ vs 70.1″) contributes to a sleeker, more athletic appearance. This dimensional advantage translates to better handling characteristics and a more premium aesthetic.

Storage Capacity

While the Grand Highlander offers up to 97.5 cubic feet of storage volume, the CX-90 provides 75.2 cubic feet. However, the CX-90’s thoughtful cargo organization with storage boxes and under-floor storage options maximizes usable space efficiency.

Performance

All-Wheel Drive Availability

One significant advantage of the 2026 CX-90 is its standard all-wheel drive system across all trim levels. On the other side, the Grand Highlander offers AWD as an available option, meaning base models come with front-wheel drive standard. So, if versatility and power are important to you, the CX-90 clearly makes it more available.

Fuel Economy

• 2026 CX-90
  • 23/28/25
• 2026 Grand Highlander (FWD)
  • 21/28/24
• 2026 Grand Highlander (AWD)
  • 21/27/23

With these numbers, it’s easy to see that the CX-90 is a more efficient drive, which is especially impressive when considering its superior performance credentials.

Driving Modes and Towing

The 2026 CX-90 features Sport and Off-road driving modes with an available Towing mode on higher trims. Additionally, the CX-90’s towing capacity ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the trim level. The 2026 Grand Highlander offers a 5,000-pound towing capacity and available Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) with specialized modes, though this feature is limited to the highest Platinum trim. While the Grand Highlander has a higher base towing capacity, it’s also missing the standard drive mode select that makes the CX-90 stand out.

Interior Features

While both vehicles prioritize comfort and versatility, it’s clear that the CX-90 delivers superior standard features and premium materials:

Seating and Comfort

Seating up to 8 passengers across three rows with 60/40 split-folding second and third-row seats. Available second-row captain’s chairs provide added luxury and easier third-row access. The Grand Highlander rises to the occasion with its seating, also seating 8 standard with available seven-passenger seating including captain’s chairs.

Premium Materials

The CX-90 sets itself apart with standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, plus leatherette-trimmed seats with available upgrades to leather-trimmed or Nappa leather-trimmed seats. The Grand Highlander offers available leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel, but these features aren’t standard across the lineup. Additionally, the premium Nappa leather option simply isn’t available in the 2026 Grand Highlander.

Additional Power Options

When it comes to additional power options, both vehicles offer practical features like 12V power outlets, though the CX-90 goes further with an available 150-watt accessory outlet on higher trims. The Grand Highlander counters with an available 120V power outlet, which provides different utility options.

Tech Features

Technology integration is crucial for modern families, and both vehicles deliver impressive infotainment systems:

Display Technology

Featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, the 2026 CX-90 also features an available 12.3-inch upgrade, paired with a 7-inch LCD meter display that can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. The 2026 Grand Highlander, however, comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch instrument cluster, with a 12.3-inch display available on upper trims. This may be one of the few areas where the Grand Highlander offers a more premium feature at a lower-level trim, but the 12.3-inch infotainment screen is vailable at the 3.3 Turbo Preferred trim of the CX-90, which is still competitively priced to the Highlander’s lowest trim level.

Audio Systems

For audiophiles, Mazda offers a standard 8-speaker audio system with an available 12-speaker Bose premium system at select trims. Toyota, on the otherhand, provides a 6-speaker standard system with an available 11-speaker JBL system on higher trims. The numbers simply don’t lie – the 2026 CX-90 is clearly able to provide more comprehensive audio experiences on both counts.

Trim Levels & Pricing Options

The pricing structure reveals the CX-90’s superior value proposition:

Value Analysis

The CX-90’s base price of $38,800 with standard AWD represents exceptional value compared to the Grand Highlander’s $41,360 starting price with front-wheel drive only. When comparing similarly equipped models, the CX-90 consistently offers more premium features and superior performance at competitive pricing.

Experience the 2026 Mazda CX-90 at Independence Mazda

Ready to discover why the 2026 Mazda CX-90 is Charlotte’s premier three-row SUV? Visit Independence Mazda today to experience the CX-90’s superior performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology firsthand. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you find the perfect CX-90 trim level to match your lifestyle and budget. All you have to do is schedule your test drive today and see why more Charlotte families are choosing the 2026 Mazda CX-90 over the competition. Contact Independence Mazda or visit our showroom to explore our full inventory of CX-90 models and discover the exceptional financing options available to make your dream SUV more affordable than ever!