2022 Mazda CX9 vs Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is a hybrid SUV with a sophisticated shape, superb performance, and many active safety functions. But is it good enough to beat the 2022 Mazda CX-9, an SUV which is frequently praised for its fabulous appearance, outstanding safety ratings and joyful handling?

Design & Style

The CX-9 seats 7 and is one of the biggest SUVs sold by Mazda. It also has 3 rows with all-wheel drive that has been standardized. The front end is slim with a corporate emblem and grille that is reasonably sized. It has elegant curves and within the cabin passengers get a horizontal style layout with supple leather and metallic trim, where they will receive their infotainment via a ten inch touch display.

The RAV4 seats 5 and Toyota has made a number of changes to it this year. These include the new SE Hybrid, upgraded headlights and seven inch touch displays. It has a rugged and angular body with wheel wells that are squared off, bluffed front end and gun sight style windows. The seats are snug and comfortable but the padding feels thin to some.

Technology & Safety

Though the Toyota RAV4 is equipped with standardized features such as emergency automated brakes, its LED headlights have been rated poorly. And it received a four star rating for its frontal collision protection rather than five stars. It does come with countermeasures such as adapted cruise control, blind area monitoring and automated lane control, but its large roof pillars can obstruct the driver's rearview. Amenities within its cabin include keyless start, seats that can be cooled or heated, sunroof and leather upholstery.

The Mazda CX-9 has earned both the Top Safety Pick+ via the IIHS as well as five stars rating from the NHTSA. It comes with every safety function found in the Toyota, including adapted cruise control with blind area monitoring. Amenities within its cabin include seats that can be heated or cooled, a twelve speaker audio system from Bose, wireless charging for smartphones, powered tailgate and sunroof.

Performance

The Mazda CX-9 is powered by a turbo 4, 2.5 liter engine that can generate 227 horsepower with the ability to accelerate from zero to sixty in about 7.2 seconds. It has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The Toyota RAV4 is powered by an inline 4, 2.5 liter engine that can generate 203 horsepower with the ability to accelerate from zero to sixty in about 8.3 seconds. It too has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The Bottom Line

The Mazda CX-9 surpasses the Toyota when it comes to seating capacity, horsepower, acceleration and safety credentials. And when you consider the fact that the Toyota RAV4's backseat is also tiny, it is easy to see why the Mazda CX-9 wins.

Ready to Schedule a 2022 Mazda CX-9 Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2022 Mazda CX-9 test drive now!