2021 Mazda CX-9 vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner | San Juan Capistrano, CA

Just a few years ago, Toyota was the brand to beat. Their vehicles presented a fantastic value, both in terms of features and reliability. However, in recent years Toyota has become more known for outdated tech and underwhelming performance, two categories in which Mazda excels. Does that mean you should get a Mazda over a Toyota? That’s what we’re here to figure out.

Today, we’re comparing the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature and the 2021 Toyota 4Runner Limited. With the similar price points, you’d expect this to be a close fight. Spoiler alert: it’s not. Let us show you which one is better than the other.

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2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature

vs

2021 Toyota 4Runner Limited

$46,805

MSRP

$47,705
2.5L turbo 4-cyl

Engine

4.0L V6

250 hp / 320 lb-ft

Horsepower / Torque

270 hp / 278 lb-ft

6-speed auto

Transmission

 5-speed auto
AWD

Drivetrain

 4WD
20/26/23

Fuel Economy

 16/19/17

New Midsize SUV in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Better Performance

Despite having a bigger V6, the 2021 4Runner has worse performance than the CX-9 in every way. It’s engine is okay, though not particularly quick. Its transmission is adequate. In comparison, the CX-9 has a lively turbocharged engine that provides excellent acceleration from a stop and while passing on the highway. The CX-9 also benefits from the signature Mazda handling prowess, with handling capabilities above and beyond what a vehicle like the CX-9 should be able to do. On top of that, the CX-9 has way better fuel economy.

Better Safety Suite

Despite its reputation for safety, Toyota skimps on the features with the 2021 4Runner. It only gets forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and front and rear parking sensors. The 2021 CX-9 gets all of those features, as well as lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, reverse automatic emergency braking, a surround-view parking camera system, traffic sign recognition, adaptive headlights, and driver attention monitoring.

For more details on the 2021 CX-9, give Capistrano Mazda a call.

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