When two mid-size SUVs go at loggerheads with each other, one can surely expect good competition. That is certainly the case with the Mazda CX-9 and the Toyota 4Runner which are well established in the mid-size SUV segment. Both vehicles offer a ton of features coupled with enthusiastic powertrains making them equally popular in both cases. But there are certain intrinsic qualities that the CX-9 emanates making it a better option. Let’s tap into this topic in more detail.
The 2021 version of the Mazda CX-9 receives a slew of updates to make it more inclusive of the present market trend. These updates include an updated infotainment system with a 10.3-inch display, wireless smartphone charging pad offered as standard on the Touring, Grand Touring, & Signature models, availability of the Carbon Edition package for the Grand Touring trim, new paddle shifters and an improved camera system for the Grand Touring and Signature trims, and a new set of standard safety features for the Signature trim. Interested in the 2021 Mazda CX-9? Contact us for more information.
2021 Mazda CX-9 |
vs |
2021 Toyota 4Runner |
2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Cylinder |
Engine |
4.0-liter V-6 |
227 hp / 310 ft-lbs. |
Horsepower / Torque |
270 hp / 278 ft-lbs. |
14.4 cu. ft. |
Cargo Capacity (Cubic Feet) |
47.2 cu. ft. |
7 | Seating Capacity |
5 |
3,500 lbs. | Towing Capacity (Pounds) | 5,000 lbs. |
From the table above, it is clear that the Toyota 4Runner offers more power than the CX-9 and this does work to its advantage. That said, the CX-9 can offer up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque from the same powertrain with the help of 93-octane premium unleaded fuel. Also, higher torque figures make the CX-9 a lot more responsive to the throttle compared to the Toyota 4Runner.
The 2021 CX-9 also stands out when it comes to cabin space and comfort. The CX-9 offers three-row seating as standard and can accommodate seven passengers at any given time. This makes it a lot more practical compared to the 4Runner. Yes, the 4Runner does offer an optional third-row seat. However, it is not as convenient and comfortable as the CX-9. The materials used in the CX-9’s cabin are of high quality and offer a premium experience to its customers. Technological features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity are standard on both vehicles. But it is the impressive 10.25-inch touchscreen display offered in the CX-9 that gives it a slight advantage over the 4Runner. The Toyota 4Runner compensates this with Wi-Fi Hotspot capability and SiriusXM subscription standard on all the trims. But other than that, all the other features are pretty much standard on both vehicles making them solid contenders in this aspect.
Safety is paramount, and features like Lane-Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System are some of the many features that both vehicles manage to offer as standard.
All that said, it is the overall build quality, flexibility, and premium nature of the 2021 CX-9 that puts it one step above the 2021 4Runner.