2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Highlander. (268 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 230 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 2006 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 6 (365 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Highlander. (288 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3726 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
