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Uh oh, the best mid-size SUV for the money might be hard to find. The Mazda CX-9 ranks as being the best option to get your money’s worth, but it was recently replaced larger Mazda CX-90. But what’s in second place? 

What’s the best mid-size SUV for the money? 

According to a study performed by iSeeCars, the Mazda CX-9 is the best mid-size SUV for the money, which is great for families looking to get a solid bargain. 

However, you won’t exactly find a brand new one anymore. The CX-9 was discontinued back in 2023. It was replaced by the Mazda CX-90 to provide families with more passenger and cargo space. 

So, I feel like the second-place option on the list of the best mid-size SUVs for the money is actually the winner, because you can still go buy one. The second-place winner is the Toyota Highlander. 

To determine this list, iSeeCars analyzed millions of SUVs to determine their life space and then it calculated the annual cost during lifespans. Reliability, value retention, and safety scores also come into play. 

The Mazda CX-9 has an annual lifespan cost of $3,722.11 and the Highlander has an annual lifespan cost of $3,888.78. So, the CX-9 saves $166,67 per year in comparison. 

The 2024 Toyota Highlander parked near a home
2024 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

Also, the 2023 CX-9 has a reliability rating of 78 out of 100 from J.D.Power, which is surprisingly low for a most value award winner. But the 2023 Highlander only has a 79, so it’s only one point ahead. 

Scores between 70 to 80 are average and anything between 81 and 90 is above average. The best scores fall between 91 and 100. 

The CX-9 is expected to last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles. Some examples have surpassed 300,000 miles, but regular care is the key to survival. 

An average Highlander model is also expected to last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles. So both of these SUVs could provide about 17 to 20 years of service on the road if you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year. 

So, if you can’t find the right used Mazda CX-9 model, then it’s worth it to consider a 2024 Toyota Highlander instead.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.