2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with the Limited trim reaching $61,800 in Canada. It featured a bold design with exaggerated forms, including scowling headlights and flared rear fenders. The interior was characterized by oversized elements like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and large climate control knobs, but the mismatched textures and tones, along with reflections from the display, made it visually overwhelming. Despite its quiet ride, the interior quality was questionable, with controls that felt inexpensive and storage areas that were unlined, leading to potential noise issues.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its appealing design since its second-generation debut in 2017. The new Suna trim in the U.S. featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine and added wireless charging and connectivity options. The CX-5 offered a choice between a 187-hp base engine and a 256-hp turbocharged engine, both with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The interior was upscale, with premium materials and a comfortable, if snug, seating arrangement for four adults. The CX-5's design and quality elevated it above many mass-market rivals.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. It weighed 2,060 kilograms and offered standard AWD. The electric motors assisted with acceleration and allowed for low-speed electric-only driving. However, the gas engine's 175 lb-ft of torque limited high-speed passing power, and towing capacity was 1,588 kilograms. The Highlander Hybrid featured Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its soft suspension and CVT made for a lackluster driving experience. Fuel economy was a focus, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, but it returned 8.2 L/100 km on the evaluation loop, higher than the expected 6.7 L/100 km.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 hp on premium gas and 227 hp on regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, but fuel efficiency was unimpressive at 10.3 L/100 km observed. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and it featured G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering. It offered a quiet highway ride and lively handling in the city, with a decent 20 cm of ground clearance for light off-road use. Towing capacity was limited to 900 kilograms.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, but the third-row seat was best for occasional use. Standard features included three-zone climate control and heated front seats, with additional comforts in the Platinum package. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the second row folded. However, the centre armrest storage design was complex, and the optional cargo mat compromised utility.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with comfortable and supportive seating. The interior was snug for four adults, with rear air conditioning vents and a centre armrest enhancing comfort. The cabin's design and quality were premium, with good storage space. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,680 litres with the rear seat folded, which was less than most compact crossovers.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a new 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The Limited trim had a 12.3-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a JBL sound system. The Drive Connect service plan offered advanced features like natural voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. However, the controls were not intuitive, and the graphics lacked contrast.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and emergency assistance. The Suna trim included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, adding to the premium feel.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features in higher trims. The ADAS performed well, though it struggled with certain road conditions. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist as standard. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The ADAS performed well, with non-intrusive lane departure and keeping systems. The CX-5 had previously been a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, and the NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover rating.