Toyota Highlander vs the Competition

 

Toyota Highlander vs. The Competition: Compare Midsize SUVs in Bowie

Three-row crossovers provide an appealing blend of comfort, utility, and drivability-offering the space and accommodations of a traditional SUV with more carlike handling and ride quality. The  Toyota Highlander first launched around the turn of the century when the body style was in its infancy and was one of the models to help popularize the segment. Now, in its fourth generation, Highlander continues to stand out for its versatility, safety, style, and renowned reputation for reliability and longevity.

The Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for Bowie families who need extra roominess and seatbelts but aren't interested in a traditional minivan or the cumbersome space requirements of a full-size SUV. Below, you can get a look at how it compares in a few key areas to three prominent class competitors: The Honda Pilot, Chevy Traverse, and Ford Explorer.

Toyota Highlander vs. Honda Pilot

  • The Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are both powered by 3.5-liter V-6 engines. However, Highlander has a slight edge in both power and efficiency, with 295 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined. The Pilot makes 280 horsepower and 23 mpg.

  • If you're looking for a spacious three-row family mover that doesn't compromise on efficiency, Highlander is also available as a hybrid-boosting estimated fuel economy to an impressive 36 mpg. The Pilot isn't available as a hybrid.

  • Passengers will appreciate the Highlander for its extra legroom, which measures 42 inches in the first row and 41 inches in the second. The Pilot isn't quite as accommodating, offering 40.9 and 38.4 inches, respectively. Cargo space is about even, with Highlander offering 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 84.3 behind the first (Pilot: 46.8 / 83.9).

  • Highlander and Pilot have equally equipped base trims with standard features like tri-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. However, Highlander offers a better value, with a starting MSRP of $2,175 below the Pilot.
 
 

Toyota Highlander vs. Chevy Traverse

  • The Toyota Highlander and Chevy Travers are both well-equipped with many advanced driver-assist technologies as standard equipment. However, while Highlander comes standard with the convenience of Adaptive Cruise Control, the Traverse only offers this feature as part of an optional package on higher trim levels.

  • Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and offers a large 12.3-inch touchscreen as an available upgrade. The Traverse starts with a 7-inch system and offers an 8-inch display as its only option.

  • Convenience features like heated mirrors and a power-adjustable driver's seat are standard on the Highlander. These features are available on the Traverse, but only by climbing the trim ladder-heated mirrors are only available via an extra package on its third tier. Additionally, Highlander offers an extra inch of legroom in the first and second rows.

  • Highlander is appreciably more efficient than the Traverse, achieving 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving to the Traverse's 21 mpg. Highlander can also be had with a fuel-sipping hybrid that gets 36 mpg. Chevy doesn't offer a hybrid.

Toyota Highlander vs. Ford Explorer

  • If you need extra seatbelts for your larger crew, the Highlander has them. It comes standard with seating for eight people, but you can open up the space with available second-row captain's chairs for a 7-person configuration. The Ford Explorer maxes out at seven seats, which reduces to six with captain's chairs.

  • The Toyota Highlander comes standard with convenience-enhancing features like heated mirrors and Adaptive Cruise Control. To get these features on the Explorer, you have to climb up three or four trim levels.

  • Highlander and Explorer both offer available battery-assisted powertrains. However, the Highlander Hybrid is much more efficient, achieving ~36 mpg to the Explorer Hybrid's 27 mpg. Furthermore, Highlander's hybrid powertrain is available for the LE trim level for an MSRP of $39,055. The Explorer's hybrid variant starts at the Limited tier for $50,795.
 

Test-Drive the Toyota Highlander in Bowie

Reach out to Toyota of Bowie today to learn more about the new Toyota Highlander and its available trims, options, and special offers. If you'd like to get behind the wheel for a closer look at any of our new Toyota models, we welcome you to visit us for a test drive. We'll be happy to show you around.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) is pleased to provide dealers the opportunity to convey the above information. When reviewing a Toyota dealer’s inventory, please note that all information, including but not limited to pricing and vehicle status, is provided by and is the sole responsibility of that dealer. As such, TMS is relying on the dealer to ensure the continued accuracy of the information provided. Any questions or concerns should be addressed with the applicable dealer. TMS disclaims all liability for any inaccuracies.
  1. Toyota of Bowie

    16700 Governor Bridge Rd
    Bowie, MD 20716

    • Sales: (301) 970-9407
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