Suv showdown: lexus ux vs toyota highlander: which compact crossover reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The UX offers a comfortable and controlled ride, with responsive handling that makes it a pleasure to drive in both urban and highway settings.
- The UX also offers a hybrid variant that achieves an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.
- The UX also offers a variety of advanced safety features as options, such as a head-up display, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.
In the realm of luxury and versatility, the Lexus UX and Toyota Highlander stand out as two formidable contenders. Both SUVs offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Lexus UX and Toyota Highlander, helping you make an informed decision about which SUV is the perfect fit for your needs.
Performance and Handling
Lexus UX: The Lexus UX is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient shifting. The UX offers a comfortable and controlled ride, with responsive handling that makes it a pleasure to drive in both urban and highway settings.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces a combined 243 horsepower. The V6 engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid engine uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Highlander provides a stable and comfortable ride, with solid handling that makes it a capable choice for everyday driving and occasional off-road adventures.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Lexus UX: The Lexus UX boasts a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and a spacious cabin for its compact size. The front seats offer excellent support and comfort, while the rear seats provide ample legroom for passengers. The UX features a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious interior than the Lexus UX, with three rows of seating that can accommodate up to eight passengers. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the second-row seats provide ample legroom and headroom. The Highlander features a larger infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a JBL premium audio system.
Fuel Efficiency
Lexus UX: The Lexus UX offers impressive fuel efficiency for its class. The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The UX also offers a hybrid variant that achieves an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine choice. The 3.5-liter V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The hybrid engine, on the other hand, achieves an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Lexus UX: The Lexus UX comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a blind spot monitoring system. The UX also offers a variety of advanced safety features as options, such as a head-up display, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander also offers a robust range of safety features. Standard features include lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a blind spot monitoring system. The Highlander also offers advanced safety features as options, such as a head-up display, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.
Price and Value
Lexus UX: The Lexus UX has a starting price of $33,225 for the base model. The UX offers a range of trim levels and options, with the top-of-the-line F Sport model starting at $39,425.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,655 for the base model. The Highlander offers a range of trim levels and options, with the top-of-the-line Platinum model starting at $49,765.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Lexus UX and Toyota Highlander are both excellent SUVs that offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality. The UX is a more compact and fuel-efficient choice, while the Highlander offers more space and versatility. Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize luxury, fuel efficiency, and a sporty driving experience, the Lexus UX is an excellent choice. If you need a spacious and versatile SUV with a proven track record of reliability, the Toyota Highlander is a solid option.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Toyota Highlander has a more powerful engine, with the 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower compared to the Lexus UX‘s 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower.
2. Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious interior, with three rows of seating that can accommodate up to eight passengers compared to the Lexus UX’s two rows of seating that can accommodate up to five passengers.
3. Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
The Lexus UX has better fuel efficiency, with the hybrid variant achieving an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway compared to the Toyota Highlander hybrid’s EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.