
Three-row crossover SUVs are hard to beat for their utility, and nearly every automaker now has a good one.
The recently redesigned Ford Explorer has good handling and robust power.
Toyota’s new Highlander offers an amazingly frugal hybrid, and its interior is tremendously flexible.
The Chevy Traverse has SUV-like styling and a composed demeanor.
Don’t miss the Subaru Ascent for its standard all-wheel drive and good outward vision.
The Mazda CX-9 has aspirations beyond its typical competition, which is why it may be worth looking at the Volvo XC90 if your budget stretches.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
From dealers near you
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quick Specs | |||||
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers. |
The 2020 Chevy Traverse is a three-row family mainstay with plentiful interior space. |
The 2020 Ford Explorer rediscovers its capable, outdoorsy side without becoming trucklike in any other respect. |
The 2020 Subaru Ascent is nearly as rational a family hauler as a minivan. |
The 2020 Toyota Highlander puts practicality above all else, but handling and styling make worthwhile cameos. |
The 2020 Volvo XC90 gets a few tweaks, but remains a stylish, practical, and safe luxury SUV. |
MSRP From | |||||
$33,890 | $29,800 | $32,765 | $31,995 | $34,600 | $48,350 |
Gas Mileage | |||||
20 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||||
Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 | Gas V6 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded H-4 | Regular Unleaded V-6 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 |
EPA Class | |||||
Small SUV 2WD | Sport Utility Vehicles | Standard SUV 2WD | Standard Sport Utility Vehicles 4WD | Small SUV 2WD | Standard SUV 2WD |
Style Name | |||||
Sport FWD | FWD 4-Door L | Base RWD | 8-Passenger | L FWD (GS) | T5 FWD Momentum 7 Passenger |
Drivetrain | |||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | All Wheel | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||||
7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
Passenger Doors | |||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||||
Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sport Utility |
Transmission | |||||
Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | CVT w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
2020 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2020 Chevrolet Traverse | 2020 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2020 Ford Explorer | 2020 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2020 Subaru Ascent | 2020 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander | 2020 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2020 Volvo XC90 |