Toyota highlander vs land cruiser prado: battle of the off-road titans

When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, choosing the right SUV is crucial. Two popular options in this segment are the Toyota Highlander and the Land Cruiser Prado. Both vehicles offer impressive capabilities and features, but they differ in certain aspects that can influence your decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and the Land Cruiser Prado, helping you make an informed choice based on your specific needs and preferences.

Performance and Engine

The Toyota Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The Land Cruiser Prado, on the other hand, comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 275 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. It also features a six-speed automatic transmission and boasts a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. While the Highlander offers better acceleration, the Prado’s higher towing capacity makes it a more suitable choice for hauling heavy loads.

Off-Road Capabilities

If off-road adventures are your passion, the Land Cruiser Prado takes the lead with its legendary off-road prowess. It features a rugged body-on-frame construction, a full-time four-wheel drive system with a locking center differential, and a suite of advanced off-road technologies, including Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. The Toyota Highlander, while capable of handling light off-road trails, is primarily designed for on-road driving and lacks these specialized off-road features.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. It features a modern dashboard layout with a user-friendly infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a host of safety features. The Land Cruiser Prado, while less spacious, boasts a rugged and functional interior designed for durability and practicality. It comes with a more basic infotainment system and a limited number of safety features compared to the Highlander.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a significant factor to consider, especially for long road trips. The Toyota Highlander excels in this area, delivering an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Land Cruiser Prado, with its larger engine and off-road capabilities, has lower fuel economy ratings, averaging 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value

The Toyota Highlander offers a more affordable option compared to the Land Cruiser Prado. The base model Highlander starts at around $35,000, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim level can reach up to $48,000. The Land Cruiser Prado, on the other hand, has a starting price of around $46,000 and can exceed $55,000 for the fully loaded VX-R trim. The higher price of the Prado reflects its superior off-road capabilities and rugged construction.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and the Land Cruiser Prado depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, a spacious interior, and advanced technology, the Highlander is an excellent choice. However, if your adventures take you off the beaten path and require exceptional off-road capabilities, the Land Cruiser Prado is the undisputed champion.

Recommendations: Adventure Redefined

Whether you’re a weekend explorer or a seasoned off-road enthusiast, the Toyota Highlander and the Land Cruiser Prado offer distinct experiences that cater to different driving styles and adventure aspirations. By carefully considering the performance, off-road capabilities, interior features, fuel economy, and price, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your unique needs and desires. Embrace the spirit of adventure and choose the SUV that empowers you to conquer new horizons and redefine your outdoor experiences.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Which vehicle has better towing capacity?
A: The Land Cruiser Prado has a higher towing capacity of 7,700 pounds compared to the Highlander’s 5,000 pounds.

Q2: Is the Land Cruiser Prado more fuel-efficient than the Highlander?
A: No, the Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy ratings than the Land Cruiser Prado.

Q3: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers.

Q4: Does the Land Cruiser Prado come with off-road technologies?
A: Yes, the Land Cruiser Prado features advanced off-road technologies such as Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select.

Q5: Which vehicle offers a more affordable starting price?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a lower starting price than the Land Cruiser Prado.