Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature a better SUV than a Toyota Highlander?

The CX-9 Signature is a midsize 3-row SUV that Mazda uses a different kind of philosophy on. Under the hood is a 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 that produces 250HP & is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Getting power to the ground is an all wheel drive system. On the outside you will find an all new grill for 2021, and new wheels. On the Signature trim you will be greeted to a high level of materials, all new infotainment system, and a high level of fit and finish. Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature a better SUV than a Toyota Highlander?
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[LTX-Shep]

No BS, Lori does do great camera work. No herky-jerky shots and she always goes to where my eyes want to go. Thanks.

[terence]

My wife and I have no children but we yet bought a 2020 Mazda CX-9 last year. It's the most comfortable and best driving vehicle we have ever own. Don't buy one if you need a true third row - I think it's bit too small for a large family. However, if you are a family of 4 or fewer people, it's the perfect car. BTW, I powder coated the wheels black and it looks very high end. I get lots of questions about it.

[rixxy]

I love my CX-9, I have the same colors as the video. It's beautiful, and it's sad they don't sell it anymore an they moved to the CX-90 for much higher price.
What _sold me_ on this SUV was the *handling*, it's smooth and it feels like you're driving a floating apartment due to all the vehicle's amazing interior features.

[Abel.Nevarez]

Never thought of purchasing a Mazda or even driving one but I just purchased a 2021 Mazda CX-9 GT model and absolutely love it. It has more than I wanted in a car plus that inline 4 turbo engine feels great and helps with gas prices. Thanks for your videos.

[stevec]

Hey Joe, I just bought a 2022 CX-9. I've spent time in the Palisade and I had an older Highlander. There is nothing wrong with those. However, if driving feel is important, the CX-9 is the best. Nimble, great steering and I feel no turbo lag. This is the road trip car! As for the Entertainment Unit, I love the wheel and buttons. Hated it the first week, but once you get used to it, its very easy and lets you keep your eyes on the road. No touch screens for me.
Thanks for all the great reviews!

[mrmm]

This is one of the best suv 🚙 on planet and what’s even better it’s made in Japan 🇯🇵 great 👍 quality and good family SUV

[johndemotto]

Hey Joe. I’ve been watching all your reviews, especially for this SUV segment. Originally I was interested in the Telluride, but no way I was paying Kia’s outrageous “market adjustment.” When car shopping became a necessity after my car was wrecked beyond repair, I decided on the 2021 CX-9 Touring w/premium package and that was the best decision I’ve ever made! For a single guy, it’s a great commuter and perfect for friends night out. The compliments I get are just too much to list! Appreciate all the hard work you and Lori put in

[ForgotToMentionThat]

This Mutha has me watching cars I never intend to buy...Good show man!

[WXYZ]

Great review. My 2016 just turned 60k miles, and has been perfect. Have a good one.

[DJThump_her]

I remember the RX-7 commercials as a kid. It was the 1st car fell in love with! Made me want to be a race car driver growing up. Thanks for bringing up some great memories Joe!

[roygodine]

My neighbor has this Mazda and every time I see it I think what a great looking suv! I love this thing.

[cuuppaajoe]

This is still the nicest looking 3-row! Thanks Joe, love your videos.

[jeffinza]

Mazda really brings the fun of driving directly to person at the wheel. Bought a Mazda 3 with the 2.3 engine straight off the showroom floor back in 2007. Had it for 13 years, fun to drive, reliable too.

[Orangeman]

Just leased a 2021 AWD Mazda CX 9 Grand Touring after watching Raitis Rides!!! Headed to the store for 30 boxes of twinkies!!!
Great review, can’t wait to take the CX9 on some on throttles!!!!

[IMGROWN]

Love that CX-9 treasure box tip....Im a second grade teacher and your inner teacher is showing!

[kevinW]

If I had the money, yes I would get this. I have test driven the CX9 twice and my opinion of it never changes.

[wisamputrus]

Just purchased one 10 days ago and love everything about the car. I’ve been a Toyota loyal customer for over 30 years and didn’t think I will ever switch, but I finally did. What a change in the driving dynamics, well well worth it. And, Joe I agree with your response when I asked you to compare the 2021 Highlander and CX9. I highly advise people looking to purchase a mid size SUV to test drive the CX9 before committing to other vehicles.

[thevietnamproject]

Love you, im one of the first 30.000, feel you cause im italian and your vibes are really close to ours but please just one thing, to all the Cars Youtubers, stop complaining about fake vents because you are not designers and those fake things are still making cars really attractive . You should stop looking at those things as a performace desing but just as pure design to shake your soul and not to perform a better “lap”! Peace from an Italian in Iceland and keep doing what you do man casue is great

[Striker_]

On the throne right now. Raitis rides sends notification, I watch. 👌

[charlesngwaba]

I HAVE A MAZDA CX9 2018 MODEL AND IS A TOUCH SCREEN WHEN YOU WHEN YOU ARE PARKED BUT ITS NOT WHEN YOU ENGAGE THE VEHICLE