2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Highlander | John Kennedy Mazda
2026 Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Fits Your Family?
When it’s time to find a three-row SUV for the whole family, two names consistently come up: the Mazda CX-90 and the Toyota Highlander. Both offer seating for up to eight, standard all-wheel drive, and the space growing families need. But underneath the similar mission, these two SUVs take very different approaches to power, price, and interior experience. Here’s a full breakdown from the team at John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown to help you decide which one truly fits your family.
Quick Comparison: 2026 CX-90 vs. 2026 Highlander
- Starting MSRP — CX-90: $38,800 | Highlander: $45,570
- Standard Engine — CX-90: 3.3L Turbo I6, 280 hp / 332 lb-ft | Highlander: 2.4L Turbo I4, 265 hp / 310 lb-ft
- Top Available Engine — CX-90: Turbo S, 340 hp / 369 lb-ft | Highlander: same 2.4L Turbo across all trims — no higher-output option
- Plug-In Hybrid Option — CX-90 PHEV: 323 hp, ~27 miles electric range | Highlander Hybrid: 243 hp combined, up to 35 mpg (no plug-in option)
- Drivetrain — CX-90: standard i-Activ AWD | Highlander: standard AWD (new for 2026)
- Max Towing — CX-90: up to 5,000 lbs | Highlander: up to 5,000 lbs (gas), 3,500 lbs (hybrid)
- Seating — CX-90: up to 8 passengers | Highlander: up to 8 passengers
- Cargo Space — CX-90: up to 75.3 cu ft folded | Highlander: up to 84.3 cu ft folded
Power and Performance: The CX-90 Takes the Lead
This is where the two SUVs diverge the most. Every 2026 CX-90 comes standard with a turbocharged 3.3L inline-six producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, noticeably more than the Highlander’s standard 265-hp, 310-lb-ft turbo four-cylinder. Step up to the CX-90’s available Turbo S engine and you get 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft — a level of power the Highlander simply doesn’t offer, since every gas Highlander trim uses the same 265-hp engine regardless of price point. For families who want a three-row SUV that feels genuinely quick and confident merging onto the highway or passing on a two-lane road, the CX-90’s extra muscle makes a real difference.
The CX-90 also offers a plug-in hybrid variant with 323 horsepower and roughly 27 miles of electric-only range, giving efficiency-minded families a genuinely powerful electrified option. The Highlander Hybrid, by contrast, prioritizes fuel economy over power, with a 243-hp combined system that returns up to 35 mpg but can’t be plugged in or driven on electric power alone.
Interior Experience and Everyday Comfort
The CX-90’s cabin is frequently praised for punching above its price point, with available Nappa leather, genuine wood trim, and a level of material quality that feels closer to a luxury SUV than a mainstream one. Mazda’s 12.3-inch touchscreen, standard i-Activ AWD, and driver-focused ergonomics round out an interior built for families who want their three-row SUV to feel special, not just practical.
The Highlander counters with Toyota’s trademark simplicity and easy livability, including a standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, a hands-free power liftgate, and available dual 12.3-inch displays on Limited and Platinum trims. Where the Highlander struggles, though, is third-row space — at just 28 inches of legroom, it’s noticeably tighter back there than rivals, best reserved for younger kids rather than teens or adults.
To Be Fair: Where the Highlander Holds Its Own
The Highlander isn’t without real strengths. Toyota’s reputation for long-term reliability and strong resale value is hard to overstate, and the Highlander Hybrid’s 35-mpg combined rating is excellent for a three-row SUV. Every 2026 Highlander now comes with standard AWD (previously optional), and Toyota’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach to trims and options appeals to families who want a simple decision without a long list of engine and package combinations to sort through. If maximum cargo room and Toyota’s dependability track record are top priorities, the Highlander remains a strong choice.
The Verdict
Both of these three-row SUVs are strong choices for growing families. But for buyers who want more standard horsepower, a genuine high-performance engine option, a more premium-feeling cabin, and a lower starting price, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 comes out ahead. The Highlander remains a dependable, easy-to-live-with choice for families who prioritize resale value and simplicity, but if you want a three-row SUV that feels as good to drive as it looks, the CX-90 is the stronger overall package.
See the 2026 Mazda CX-90 for Yourself
Visit John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown to test drive the CX-90 and see how it compares to the Highlander in person.
View CX-90 Inventory Schedule a Test Drive
Proudly Serving Pottstown and the Surrounding Communities
John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown is a convenient stop for CX-90 shoppers throughout Montgomery, Chester, and Berks Counties. We’re proud to serve drivers from:
- Pottstown, PA
- Royersford, PA
- Spring City, PA
- Phoenixville, PA
- Collegeville, PA
- Limerick, PA
- Boyertown, PA
- Douglassville, PA
- Sanatoga, PA
- Trappe, PA
- Gilbertsville, PA
- Birdsboro, PA
- Norristown, PA
- Reading, PA
No matter which of these communities you call home, our Pottstown showroom is just a short drive away. Browse our full new Mazda inventory or visit our homepage to learn more about financing, trade-ins, and current offers.
Pricing, specifications, and third-party data referenced above are current as of publication and sourced from Mazda USA, Toyota.com, Kelley Blue Book, and TrueCar. Specs and pricing are subject to change by each manufacturer and may not include destination fees, taxes, title, or dealer charges. See John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown for current pricing, incentives, and availability.
2026 Mazda CX-50 vs. CX-70: Which Mazda SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?
Mazda’s SUV lineup has grown a lot in the last few years, and two of the models drivers ask about most at John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown are the CX-50 and the CX-70. Both are stylish, both come standard with all-wheel drive, and both wear the Mazda badge proudly — but they’re built for different lifestyles. Here’s a full breakdown to help you decide which one belongs in your driveway.
Quick Spec Comparison: CX-50 vs. CX-70
| Category | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | 2026 Mazda CX-70 |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Class | Compact SUV | Midsize SUV (2-row, near-luxury) |
| Starting MSRP | $29,900 | $42,250 |
| Standard Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder — 187 hp / 185 lb-ft | 3.3L Turbo Inline-6 (mild hybrid) — 280 hp / 332 lb-ft |
| Available Engines | 2.5L Turbo (up to 256 hp) or CX-50 Hybrid (219 hp, 38 mpg combined) | 3.3L Turbo S (340 hp / 369 lb-ft) or CX-70 PHEV (323 hp, up to ~30 mi electric range) |
| Drivetrain | Standard i-Activ AWD (eAWD on Hybrid) | Standard AWD |
| Max Towing | Up to 3,500 lbs (Turbo) | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Cargo Space | 31.4 cu ft (rear seats up) / 56.3 cu ft (folded) | 39.6 cu ft (rear seats up) / up to 75.3 cu ft (folded) |
| Seating | 5 passengers | 5 passengers |
| Interior Feel | Rugged, outdoor-ready, upscale for the class | Near-luxury cabin, available Nappa leather, suede accents |
| Off-Road Ready Trim | Meridian Edition — all-terrain tires, black roof rails, Off-Road drive mode | Not offered — on-road/luxury focused |
The 2026 Mazda CX-50: Built for the Outdoors
The CX-50 is Mazda’s rugged, adventure-ready compact SUV, and it’s an easy recommendation for drivers who want a daily commuter that can also handle a dirt road trailhead or a weekend camping trip. Standard all-wheel drive across every trim, a wide and flat cargo floor designed to fit coolers and gear lengthwise, and the new-for-2026 Meridian Edition — complete with all-terrain tires and an Off-Road drive mode — all point toward the same audience: people who actually use their SUV outdoors, not just look the part.
Buyers also get real flexibility in how they power it. The base 2.5L engine is efficient and smooth for daily driving, the available 2.5 Turbo adds real passing power and up to 3,500 lbs of towing capacity, and the CX-50 Hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined for drivers who want to save at the pump without giving up AWD capability.
The CX-50 Is the Right Fit If You…
- Want a lower starting price and strong value for a compact SUV
- Spend weekends hiking, camping, or hauling outdoor gear
- Want the flexibility to choose between gas, turbo, or hybrid power
- Prioritize fuel efficiency alongside standard AWD
The 2026 Mazda CX-70: Near-Luxury Comfort and Power
The CX-70 takes a different approach. Built on Mazda’s larger platform (shared with the three-row CX-90), it trades a third row for a spacious, upscale two-row cabin with materials that punch well above the mainstream SUV class — think quilted Nappa leather, suede dashboard accents, and a hushed, composed ride. It’s for drivers who want more power, more towing capacity, and a genuinely premium feel without stepping up to a luxury badge.
Under the hood, the standard 3.3L turbo inline-six makes a strong 280 hp, while the Turbo S trims push that to 340 hp for confident highway passing and up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity — enough for a boat, camper, or small trailer. For drivers who want to reduce fuel use on shorter trips, the CX-70 PHEV offers roughly 30 miles of electric-only range before the gas engine takes over.
The CX-70 Is the Right Fit If You…
- Want more power and a stronger towing capacity for trailers or toys
- Prefer a quieter, more upscale cabin with premium materials
- Need more cargo room without stepping up to a three-row SUV
- Are cross-shopping entry-luxury SUVs but want to stay in a mainstream price range
The Verdict
If your priority is value, versatility, and a genuinely capable outdoor companion, the CX-50 is hard to beat — especially with the efficient hybrid option or the trail-ready Meridian Edition. If you want more power, more towing muscle, and a cabin that feels like a step above the mainstream SUV crowd, the CX-70 is the better match. Either way, both SUVs deliver the driving dynamics Mazda is known for, and our team can help you figure out which one truly fits how you live.
Test Drive the CX-50 or CX-70 Today
Visit John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown to compare the CX-50 and CX-70 side by side and find the SUV that matches your lifestyle.Schedule Your Test Drive
Proudly Serving Pottstown and the Surrounding Communities
John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown is a convenient stop for CX-50 and CX-70 shoppers throughout Montgomery, Chester, and Berks Counties. We’re proud to serve drivers from:
- Pottstown, PA
- Royersford, PA
- Spring City, PA
- Phoenixville, PA
- Collegeville, PA
- Limerick, PA
- Boyertown, PA
- Douglassville, PA
- Sanatoga, PA
- Stowe, PA
- Gilbertsville, PA
- Birdsboro, PA
- Pennsburg, PA
- Norristown, PA
- Reading, PA
No matter which of these communities you call home, our Pottstown showroom is just a short drive away for CX-50 and CX-70 test drives, trade-in appraisals, and financing help.
Pricing, specifications, and EPA estimates shown are manufacturer figures and may not include destination fees, taxes, title, or dealer charges. Specs and pricing are subject to change by the manufacturer. See John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown for current pricing, incentives, and availability.
CX-5 vs Toyota RAV4
Mazda CX-5 vs Toyota RAV4 in Pottstown, PA: A Real-World SUV Comparison
If you’re shopping for a compact SUV around Pottstown, PA—or commuting from nearby towns like Limerick, Royersford, Phoenixville, or Collegeville—you’ve likely come across two of the most popular options on the road today: the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4.
At first glance, they seem similar. Both are reliable, well-equipped, and built to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways. But once you spend time with each, the differences start to become clear—and those differences can make all the difference in your day-to-day driving experience.
At John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown, we help drivers compare these two SUVs every day. Here’s what you should know before choosing between them.
Two SUVs, Two Different Personalities
The Toyota RAV4 has built its reputation on practicality. It’s known for being dependable, efficient, and versatile—especially with its available hybrid models. For many drivers, it’s a safe and sensible choice.
The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, takes a slightly different approach. While it offers the same everyday usability, it adds something extra: a sense of refinement and driving enjoyment that you don’t always expect in this segment.
So the question becomes less about which SUV is “better” and more about which one fits your lifestyle.
What It Feels Like Behind the Wheel
One of the first things drivers notice when comparing the CX-5 and RAV4 is how they feel on the road.
The RAV4 is smooth and predictable. It’s designed to get you where you need to go comfortably and efficiently, whether you’re heading to work in Collegeville or taking a longer drive across Montgomery County.
The CX-5, however, feels more connected. Steering is sharper, handling is more responsive, and the overall ride feels more composed—especially on winding roads or during quick lane changes. For drivers commuting through Phoenixville or navigating back roads near Limerick, that added control can make everyday driving more enjoyable.
It’s not about being aggressive—it’s about feeling confident and engaged behind the wheel.
Inside the Cabin: Where You Spend Your Time
Interior design is where the Mazda CX-5 really begins to stand apart.
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that feels thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials and a quiet, comfortable atmosphere. It’s the kind of space that makes even a short drive feel more relaxed—and longer trips much more enjoyable.
The Toyota RAV4 takes a more practical approach. Its interior is durable and functional, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It’s a great fit for families, outdoor gear, and busy schedules.
But if you value a more refined, almost luxury-like feel during your daily drives from Royersford or Pottstown, the CX-5 offers something truly different in this class.
Efficiency vs Enjoyment
When it comes to fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4—especially in hybrid form—has a clear advantage. If your priority is maximizing miles per gallon for longer commutes, it’s hard to ignore.
The Mazda CX-5 takes a more balanced approach. It delivers competitive fuel economy while still prioritizing performance and driving feel. For many drivers, that balance is exactly what they’re looking for: efficiency without sacrificing enjoyment.
Confidence in Every Season
Pennsylvania drivers know how important all-wheel drive can be, especially during winter months.
One of the biggest advantages of the Mazda CX-5 is that it comes standard with all-wheel drive across every trim level. That means added confidence on snowy roads without needing to upgrade or choose specific packages.
The Toyota RAV4 does offer all-wheel drive, but it’s not standard on every model—something to keep in mind when comparing options.
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Life
Both the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are excellent vehicles. The right choice ultimately depends on what matters most to you.
If your focus is practicality, fuel efficiency, and cargo space—especially if you’re considering a hybrid—the RAV4 is a strong contender.
But if you’re looking for something that feels a little more refined, more comfortable, and more enjoyable to drive every day, the Mazda CX-5 offers a driving experience that stands out in a crowded segment.
It’s the kind of difference you notice not just on a test drive—but every time you get behind the wheel.
Experience the Mazda CX-5 Near Pottstown, PA
The best way to truly understand the difference is to experience it for yourself.
You can browse our Mazda CX-5 inventory, explore financing options, or value your trade-in online.
When you’re ready, visit John Kennedy Mazda of Pottstown. We proudly serve drivers from Limerick, Royersford, Phoenixville, Collegeville, and throughout the surrounding area.
Take a test drive—and see which SUV truly feels right for you.
There is something especially appealing about a slow Saturday in and around Pottstown. No packed schedule, no need to rush, and no pressure to turn the weekend into something complicated. Sometimes the best plan is simply to head out for a good cup of coffee or tea, find a place with a comfortable atmosphere, and enjoy a quieter kind of outing. That is part of what makes local coffeehouses and cafés so easy to appreciate. They give you a place to pause, catch up with a friend, ease into the day, or just enjoy a little time away from the usual routine.
Around Pottstown, there are several spots that can help make that kind of morning or afternoon feel even better. Some lean into specialty coffee, some have a welcoming neighborhood café feel, and some make it easy to pair a drink with breakfast or lunch. If you are looking for local places to keep on your radar for a relaxed weekend, these coffeehouses and tea-friendly stops are worth checking out.
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Choosing between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 really comes down to what matters most in your daily drive. These compact SUVs take completely different approaches to the same problem. The CX-5 focuses on refined materials and handling that actually makes driving fun. The RAV4? It’s all about hybrid efficiency and weekend adventures, which got even more important this year since Toyota ditched traditional gas engines completely.
Both vehicles received meaningful updates for 2026, but they’re targeting entirely different buyers. Figuring out where each one shines helps Pottstown drivers match the right SUV to their actual needs.
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Some cars chase trends. The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata chases curves instead. For over three decades, this iconic roadster has stuck to one simple philosophy: driving should feel like pure joy, not a commute. While other manufacturers pile on weight and complexity, Mazda strips it all away. The result? A convertible that weighs less than most sedans yet delivers more grins per mile than cars costing twice as much.
What makes the new Miata special isn’t advanced driver aids or hybridized powertrains. It’s the feeling you get when the tachometer climbs and the road opens up ahead. That sensation connects directly to roadster heritage dating back to British sports cars of the 1960s, refined through Japanese engineering precision.
Read the rest of this entry »Best Wellness and Self-Care Shops in Pottstown, PA
There is something refreshing about setting aside time to slow down and take care of yourself, especially when you can do it close to home. In Pottstown, wellness and self-care are not limited to one kind of experience. Depending on what you need, that might mean a calming massage, a fresh skincare routine, a restorative scalp treatment, a visit to an apothecary, or simply finding a local shop that helps you feel a little more balanced going into the rest of your week. One of the best parts of exploring local businesses is seeing how many different paths there are to feeling recharged. If you have been looking for the best wellness and self-care shops in Pottstown, PA, there are several local and nearby spots worth knowing about. Each one brings something a little different to the table, which makes it easier to find the kind of reset that feels right for you. Whether you are planning a full self-care day or just looking for one good stop to add to your routine, these places are worth a closer look.
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Your daily commute shapes how you experience your vehicle. Whether you’re navigating Pottstown’s streets or cruising highways toward Philadelphia, the right Mazda interior transforms routine driving into genuine comfort. Each 2026 Mazda interior brings distinct advantages for commuters, from compact city drivers to families managing school drop-offs. Understanding what makes a Mazda car inside truly comfortable helps you choose the model that matches your specific commute.
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The 2026 Mazda CX-70 creates a cabin experience that balances sophistication with daily usability. When you slide into the driver’s seat, you’ll notice thoughtful details right away: carefully chosen materials, well-coordinated color schemes, and surfaces that feel solid under your touch. Mazda’s newest two-row crossover handles both understated elegance and bold personality without cutting corners on quality. Getting familiar with these options helps you build a cabin that fits how you live and what matters in your everyday driving around Pottstown.
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Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, refreshing your small-business “About” page, or finally booking that family photo you’ve been putting off since the last time the kids had matching outfits, Pottstown makes it easy to look photo-ready. The best part: you don’t have to drive far to find talented photographers, polished headshot options, and print shops that can turn a great image into something you can actually hang, frame, mail, or hand out.
Below are a few local go-to spots for photography and printing around Pottstown. Each one brings something a little different to the table—so you can pick what fits your style, timeline, and “how many retakes is too many” comfort level.
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