Toyota highlander vs bmw x7: budget-friendly suv vs luxury beast – which is better for you?

When it comes to choosing a family SUV, the Toyota Highlander and BMW X7 are two of the top contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, advanced features, and impressive performance. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into every aspect of the Toyota Highlander vs BMW X7 to help you make an informed decision.

Interior Space and Comfort

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers a roomy and comfortable interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The second and third rows provide ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants. The cabin is well-appointed with soft-touch materials and premium amenities, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

BMW X7: The X7 boasts an even more spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. The first and second rows are particularly impressive, with generous legroom and ample headroom. The third row is slightly more cramped but still provides reasonable space for adults. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials and state-of-the-art features, exuding a sense of opulence and refinement.

Performance and Handling

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Highlander offers a balanced performance with smooth acceleration and responsive handling. It’s not particularly sporty, but it provides a comfortable and reliable ride.

BMW X7: The X7 offers a range of powerful engine options, including a 3.0-liter inline-six with 335 horsepower, a 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower, and a 6.6-liter V12 with 600 horsepower. All models come with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The X7 delivers exceptional performance, with rapid acceleration and precise handling. Its advanced suspension system provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough terrain.

Features and Technology

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander comes well-equipped with a range of standard and available features. The infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. Other features include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a JBL premium audio system.

BMW X7: The X7 offers a more extensive suite of features and technology. The iDrive infotainment system features a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, gesture control, and a head-up display. Other features include a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and a night vision system.

Safety

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a range of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

BMW X7: The X7 has also earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. It offers an even more comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera.

Price and Value

Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $36,420 for the base L trim. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $50,955. The Highlander offers a good value for money, providing a spacious and well-equipped SUV at a competitive price.

BMW X7: The BMW X7 has a higher starting price of $74,900 for the base xDrive40i trim. The top-of-the-line M50i trim starts at $104,150. The X7 offers a more luxurious and feature-packed experience, but it comes at a premium price.

Which One Should You Choose?

The Toyota Highlander and BMW X7 are both excellent family SUVs. The Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior, reliable performance, and a good value for money. The X7 offers a more luxurious and feature-packed experience, along with exceptional performance and advanced safety technology.

If you’re looking for a practical and affordable family SUV, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a more luxurious and performance-oriented SUV, the BMW X7 is a better option.

Final Note: The Best Family SUV for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best family SUV for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the size of your family, and the features you value most. Both the Toyota Highlander and BMW X7 are excellent choices, and either one will provide you with a spacious, comfortable, and enjoyable driving experience.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The BMW X7 has a slightly more spacious interior than the Toyota Highlander, particularly in the first and second rows.

Q: Which SUV has better performance?
A: The BMW X7 offers a range of more powerful engine options and a more advanced suspension system, providing better performance and handling.

Q: Which SUV has more advanced technology?
A: The BMW X7 offers a more comprehensive suite of features and technology, including a larger infotainment screen, gesture control, and a head-up display.

Q: Which SUV is safer?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and BMW X7 have earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, the X7 offers a more extensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a lower starting price and offers a better value for money. The BMW X7 offers a more luxurious and feature-packed experience, but it comes at a premium price.