Hybrids have been gradually winning the hearts and minds of American families for decades. They’re enjoying a lot of popularity right now as a middle ground between a traditional gas vehicle and an EV. As the demand for hybrid SUVs increases, so does the number of choices that automakers offer the public. Two of our favorites are the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and Mazda CX-90 PHEV (plug-in hybrid).
Although these might seem pretty similar at first glance, they have different sets of strengths you should know about. Let’s take a closer look.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Toyota has a hybrid in almost every mainstream automotive segment, and one of its newest is the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid. You may be familiar with the Highlander Hybrid that’s been around since 2006, but the Grand Highlander Hybrid is bigger and more powerful while retaining impressive fuel economy ratings. Pricing starts at $45,545.
Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Highlights
More interior space: This SUV lives up to its “Grand” moniker with one of the biggest interiors in its class. Compared to the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, the Grand Highlander Hybrid boasts an extra three inches of third-row legroom and a whopping 38 percent more cargo space behind the third row.
Low fuel costs: In addition to the outstanding 36 combined mpg fuel economy rating, the Toyota Grand Highlander runs on regular-grade gas. Although the Mazda has the advantage of being a plug-in, its gas engine requires premium fuel, and it only gets 25 combined mpg with a depleted battery.
Lower starting price: The base price of the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is almost $6,000 lower than that of the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, putting the Toyota more within reach of a wider range of families who could benefit from a roomy hybrid SUV.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Grand Highlander Hybrid models for sale near you.
2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
The Mazda CX-90 PHEV provides near-luxury amenities without a luxury price tag. This upscale SUV delivers driving engagement synonymous with the Mazda brand while providing the practicality of three-row seating, all with an efficient hybrid powertrain. Pricing starts at $51,400.
Mazda CX-90 PHEV Highlights
26-mile electric range: Unlike the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV can run on electricity alone. Its 26-mile all-electric range and 56 combined MPGe rating make it a very efficient family SUV.
Upscale interior: The interior quality of the Mazda CX-90 is a cut above much of this class with upscale materials and a design that just looks premium. It’s well-equipped with standard features like leather seats, a head-up display, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
Surprisingly sporty: If you don’t expect a hybrid family SUV with 3-row seating to deliver a sporty driving experience, think again. This powertrain produces 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, and it handles like a smaller car in typical Mazda fashion.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-90 PHEV models for sale near you.
Similarities
These are both three-row SUVs with hybrid powertrains, albeit different types of hybrids. They come with similar complements of safety and infotainment tech features.
Pricing
New 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Prices
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Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (64083)
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|---|---|---|---|---|
$45,545 |
TBD |
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$46,715 |
TBD |
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$53,045 |
TBD |
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$53,945 |
TBD |
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$56,025 |
TBD |
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$60,110 |
TBD |
New 2025 MAZDA CX-90 PHEV Prices
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Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (64083)
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|---|---|---|---|---|
$51,400 |
TBD |
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$56,355 |
TBD |
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$59,405 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid vehicles and New 2025 MAZDA CX-90 PHEV vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander | 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder plus electric motor | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder plus electric motor |
| Horsepower | 245 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 323 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 175 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | 369 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 37 city/34 highway/36 combined | 56 MPGe combined/25 mpg combined |
| Max Towing | 3,500 pounds | 3,500 pounds |
| Also Available | AWD; turbo 4-cylinder; 362-hp Hybrid Max | |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5-Star | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Wheelbase | 116.1 inches | 122.8 inches |
| Overall Length | 201.4 inches | 201.6 inches |
| Width | 78.3 inches | 77.6 inches |
| Height | 70.1 inches | 68.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 38.1 feet |
| Headroom, 1st Row | 41.5 inches | 39.7 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 40.2 inches | 39.3 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 37.2 inches | 36.9 inches |
| Legroom, 1st Row | 41.7 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.5 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 33.5 inches | 30.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 1st Row | 60.2 inches | 59.2 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.8 inches | 58.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 57.5 inches | 53.3 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 20.6/57.9/97.5 cubic feet | 14.9/40.0/74.2 cubic feet |
Conclusion
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a no-brainer as the more practical family vehicle between these two. It’s more affordable and much more spacious inside. However, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV has the sporty and luxurious persona going for it, which makes it desirable if you only occasionally need that third row of seats. Which is right for you depends on your needs and your budget.
