Performance & Efficiency

The Toyota Highlander boasts a standard 2.4L turbocharged gas engine with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers a satisfying 203 horsepower and an impressive 24 mpg combined fuel economy. Looking for more power? Opt for the available hybrid powertrain, which cranks out 240 net horsepower while achieving a remarkable 36 mpg combined.

The Ford Explorer provides a wide range of engine options, starting with a powerful 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-4 with 300 horsepower. However, this performance comes at a cost – fuel economy dips to a combined 20 mpg. Stepping up to the available V6 engines further reduces fuel efficiency.

The Mazda CX-90 strikes a balance with a standard 3.3L turbo engine offering 280 horsepower and a fuel economy of 25 mpg combined. While the performance aspect is exciting, it doesn’t match the Highlander’s hybrid option in terms of efficiency.

Tech Throne

The Toyota Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims of the Highlander offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and a premium JBL sound system. The Explorer has an 8-inch standard touchscreen that upgrades to a 10.1-inch unit in higher trims. Both Ford and Toyota systems offer smartphone integration, but the Highlander’s available JBL sound system provides a superior listening experience.

The Mazda CX-90 takes a driver-centric approach with its standard 10.25-inch touchscreen that can be controlled via a rotary knob for minimized distraction. However, its infotainment system doesn’t quite match the user-friendliness and feature set of the Toyota or Ford.

Safety First

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ comes standard on all Highlander models, featuring a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Explorer offers Ford Co-Pilot360 with similar features, but some advanced driver-assistance features are reserved for higher trims. The Mazda CX-90 comes standard with smart brake support and lane departure warning. Ford and Mazda offer comparable safety features, but Toyota’s come standard across all trims, providing better overall value.

The Highlander Reigns Supreme

The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers a compelling combination of solid performance, impressive fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid option), user-friendly technology, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. It delivers exceptional value without sacrificing comfort, style, or capability.