The suv showdown: toyota highlander vs lexus rx 350l – who will emerge victorious?
What To Know
- The Highlander provides better fuel economy than the RX 350L, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the RX 350L’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- The RX 350L offers more comfort and convenience features than the Highlander, such as heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
- The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy than the Lexus RX 350L, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the RX 350L’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX 350L stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious and luxurious experience, but they also have their unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison guide, we will delve into the key aspects of these SUVs, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for you.
Design and Style
Exterior: The Highlander boasts a rugged and muscular exterior with sharp lines and a bold grille. In contrast, the RX 350L exudes elegance with its sleek curves, spindle grille, and chrome accents.
Interior: Inside, the Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The RX 350L, on the other hand, provides an even more luxurious and refined interior with premium leather upholstery and advanced technology features.
Power and Performance
Engine: The Highlander comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The RX 350L has a slightly less powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Economy: The Highlander provides better fuel economy than the RX 350L, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the RX 350L’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Handling: The Highlander offers a comfortable and composed ride, while the RX 350L provides a more agile and sporty driving experience.
Space and Versatility
Seating: Both the Highlander and RX 350L offer seating for up to eight passengers. However, the Highlander provides slightly more legroom and headroom in the third row.
Cargo Capacity: The RX 350L has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Highlander, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the third row compared to 16.1 cubic feet.
Towing Capacity: The Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the RX 350L, with a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the RX 350L’s 3,500 pounds.
Technology and Features
Infotainment: The Highlander features a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The RX 350L has a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with a more advanced operating system and additional features.
Safety: Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the RX 350L comes with additional safety features such as a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
Comfort and Convenience: The RX 350L offers more comfort and convenience features than the Highlander, such as heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
Price and Value
The Toyota Highlander has a lower starting price than the Lexus RX 350L, with an MSRP of $34,810 compared to the RX 350L’s $49,100. However, the RX 350L offers a more luxurious and feature-packed experience, which may justify the higher price point.
Which SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, space, and towing capacity, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious, feature-packed, and agile SUV, the Lexus RX 350L is the better option.
Final Thoughts
Both the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX 350L are exceptional midsize SUVs that offer a unique blend of comfort, performance, and technology. By carefully considering the key aspects outlined in this comparison guide, you can make an informed decision about which SUV is the right choice for your lifestyle and budget.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy than the Lexus RX 350L, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the RX 350L’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Lexus RX 350L has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Toyota Highlander, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the third row compared to the Highlander’s 16.1 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the Lexus RX 350L, with a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the RX 350L’s 3,500 pounds.