Are you looking for a three-row SUV for your family but don’t want to sacrifice a thrilling drive to do so? Despite the amount of models that can seat 7-8 passengers, not every brand can offer a more excitable drive with size. However, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 certainly ranks high on the list that can.

As a seven-seat midsize three-row SUV, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 flashes performance and safety technology ideal for any family looking for a new vehicle in San Diego County. But if you’re split between a CX-9 or a 2020 Toyota Highlander, which do you choose? We at Bob Baker Mazda look into both models below to come up with a comprehensive overview.

2020 Mazda CX-9	VS	2020 Toyota Highlander
2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder	Base Engine	Base Engine
250 at 5000 rpm	Horsepower	295 at 6600 rpm
320 at 2000 rpm	Torque	263 at 4700 rpm
24 Combined MPG	Fuel Economy	24 Combined MPG
Standard	Adaptive Cruise Control	Standard
7	Seating Capacity	8

Looks can be deceiving when comparing the 2020 Mazda CX-9 to its competitors. Though the model starts with 227 horsepower and 310 ft-lbs of torque, it improves to 250 horsepower and 320 ft-lbs when using premium unleaded fuel. Although it remains under the Highlander model’s horsepower amount, the CX-9 reaches its maximum performance at lower RPMs, making it a sportier drive for its amount. Both models come with an adaptive cruise control feature while also providing the option for all-wheel drive.

2023 Mazda CX-9 2.5 Turbo Touring AWD

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Find a 2020 Mazda CX-9 at Bob Baker Mazda

Not only does the 2020 Mazda CX-9 manages to outmaneuver the 2020 Toyota Highlander, but it also manages to be one of the safer models in its class. One major feature around the automotive industry is the Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert feature. This comes standard to all CX-9 models, whereas it’s only available on some Highlander trims. The CX-9 also won an IIHS 2020 Top Safety Pick, where it scored well in both front and side collision instances. A more complete list of safety features is as follows:

Mazda Radar Cruise Control
Advanced City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Warning
Lane-Keep Assist
Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning
Available Adaptive Front Lighting System
Traffic Sign Recognition

When comparing two major models in the three-row SUV class, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 offers better performance and safety ratings ideal for families and parents who still want the thrill of the drive. Stop in today to Bob Baker Mazda to find the right trim level for you!