2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, and this was evident in its design cues, such as hexagonal grilles, wheel arches, and a muscular stance. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model featuring more chrome brightwork. Our tester, in Celestial Silver, appeared somewhat dated, reminiscent of a "cop car." Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dashboard layout, complete with physical dials and buttons for climate control. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. The Sequoia provided power-adjustable front seats across all trims, enhancing customization options. A power-tilt and -slide moonroof was standard, with an upgraded panoramic version available on higher trims.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while a short front overhang and long hood contributed to its athletic appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly rendered with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear. However, ergonomic issues arose, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90's sophisticated design and upscale feel set it apart from other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively offered in a hybrid format, utilizing Toyota's iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This system combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked a significant increase over its V8 predecessor, with improved fuel economy rated at 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured a standard 4WD system with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and subtle operation. The SR5 TRD Off-Road model offered adventure-readiness with unique tires, off-road suspension, and driver-assist features like Crawl Control and hill-descent control. The Sequoia's maximum towing capacity was 4,137 kilograms, with towing-related upgrades available.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, high-output 3.3 Turbo, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The standard-output model generated 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft. The CX-90 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing. Its maximum towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms. The CX-90's fuel economy ratings were 9.3 L/100 km combined for the standard engine and 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version. The PHEV offered 42 kilometres of electric range. While the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone featured automatic power-deploying running boards, aiding shorter individuals in entering the vehicle. Inside, the Sequoia offered a maximum of 2,460 litres of cargo space with both second- and third-row seats folded. Behind the second row, it provided 1,387 litres, and behind the third row, it ranged from 325 to 631 litres. The second-row seats were easy to move for third-row access, but folding the third-row seats did not create a flat load floor due to the hybrid powertrain's battery pack. Headroom was reduced by 7.5 centimetres, and legroom varied across rows. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, offering wide but flat seating.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. The CX-90's long rear doors facilitated third-row access, but the third row was best suited for children. Storage space was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, shallow bin, and small trays under the load floor. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 451 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,155 litres with the third row folded and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone was equipped with a range of technology features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SR5 trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured a 14-inch centre touchscreen. The Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashy design. A full-colour 12.3-inch driver information display was standard across all trims. The Panoramic View monitor was standard on higher trims, aiding in parking and maneuvering. The Capstone trim also included a 10-inch colour head-up display and a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons. Mazda's voice recognition system was inconsistent, and a new Google built-in infotainment system was anticipated in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data. The blind-spot monitoring system provided visual alerts, enhancing safety.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 suite, including a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were also standard. The only optional driver aid was a trailer backup guide with Straight-Path Assist, available on higher trims. The Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar 2024 Toyota Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Cruising and Traffic Support system provided hands-on driving aid, though it had some limitations. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, but the audible warning systems could be overwhelming.