2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (167 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6. 2012 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
