Toyota Highlander Vs Peugeot 5008: Which 7-seater Suv Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of family SUVs, two prominent contenders emerge: the Toyota Highlander and the Peugeot 5008. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, versatile seating configurations, and a plethora of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. However, discerning buyers may seek a deeper understanding of their respective strengths and weaknesses before making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008, meticulously evaluating their key aspects to determine which SUV reigns supreme.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander boasts a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates a substantial 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, effortlessly tackling both urban commutes and highway cruising. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Highlander ensures seamless gear changes and optimal fuel efficiency.

In contrast, the Peugeot 5008 adopts a more modern approach with its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Despite its smaller displacement, this engine produces a respectable 165 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the 5008 offers adequate performance for everyday driving, although it may feel somewhat underpowered when fully loaded or encountering steep inclines.

Fuel Efficiency and MPG

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander exhibits a slight advantage over the Peugeot 5008. In EPA-estimated ratings, the Highlander achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive marginally reduces these figures to 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The Peugeot 5008, on the other hand, delivers 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, these estimates apply to the front-wheel-drive variant only. Choosing the all-wheel-drive system results in a slight decrease in fuel economy, with ratings dropping to 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008 offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Highlander provides ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, making it a comfortable choice for families with multiple children or frequent passengers. The second-row seats slide and recline, allowing for flexible seating arrangements, while the third row offers surprisingly generous legroom for adults.

The Peugeot 5008 also excels in terms of interior space and comfort. The cabin is airy and inviting, with large windows providing excellent visibility. The second row features three individual seats that can be independently adjusted or folded down to create a flat load floor. The third row is slightly less spacious than the Highlander’s, but it still offers adequate legroom for children or occasional use.

Features and Technology

The Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008 come equipped with an array of features and technologies designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety.

The Highlander boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. It also offers a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. In terms of safety, the Highlander comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

The Peugeot 5008 features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration and a premium audio system. It also offers a panoramic sunroof, heated and massaging front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The 5008 also boasts an impressive array of safety features, including lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008 have earned high safety ratings from reputable organizations. The Highlander received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 5008 also received a five-star overall safety rating from the Euro NCAP.

In terms of reliability, Toyota has a long-standing reputation for producing vehicles with exceptional durability and reliability. The Highlander has consistently ranked among the most reliable SUVs in its class. The Peugeot 5008, while not as well-established in the market, has received positive feedback from owners regarding its build quality and reliability.

Price and Value

The Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008 offer competitive pricing within their respective segments. The Highlander has a starting price of $36,420, while the 5008 starts at $37,490. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their SUV to their specific needs and budget.

When comparing value for money, the Toyota Highlander holds a slight edge over the Peugeot 5008. The Highlander offers a more powerful engine, better fuel efficiency, and a more comprehensive suite of standard features. However, the 5008 offers a more modern and stylish design, a more spacious third row, and a more advanced infotainment system.

In a nutshell: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Peugeot 5008 depends on individual needs and preferences. Those seeking a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and a long-standing reputation for reliability will find the Highlander an excellent choice. Families prioritizing style, technology, and a more engaging driving experience may prefer the 5008.

While both SUVs offer compelling attributes, prospective buyers should carefully consider their priorities and budget to determine which vehicle best aligns with their unique requirements. A test drive of both SUVs is highly recommended to gain a firsthand experience of their respective strengths and weaknesses and make an informed decision.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q1: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?

A1: The Toyota Highlander boasts a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Peugeot 5008’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 165 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Q2: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?

A2: The Toyota Highlander offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Peugeot 5008. The Highlander achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while the 5008 delivers 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Q3: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?

A3: Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, but the Toyota Highlander has a slight advantage in terms of overall passenger and cargo space. The Highlander provides ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, while the 5008 offers a more spacious third row.