Luxurious or rugged? toyota highlander vs. range rover sport – the ultimate comparison guide

In the realm of premium SUVs, two titans stand tall: the Toyota Highlander and the Range Rover Sport. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and versatility. But which one is the better choice for your needs? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together an in-depth comparison of the Toyota Highlander vs. Range Rover Sport.

Performance and Handling

The Toyota Highlander is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifts. The Highlander offers a comfortable ride and agile handling, making it a pleasure to drive on both paved roads and light off-road trails.

The Range Rover Sport, on the other hand, is available with a wide range of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6 diesel, a 5.0-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine. The diesel engine offers impressive fuel economy, while the V8 and supercharged V6 provide exhilarating performance. The Range Rover Sport’s advanced suspension system and Terrain Response system ensure exceptional handling and off-road capabilities.

Interior and Comfort

The Highlander’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. It features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The cabin is quiet and refined, offering a luxurious driving experience.

The Range Rover Sport takes interior luxury to the next level. Its spacious cabin is adorned with premium materials, including leather upholstery, wood trim, and panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is state-of-the-art, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium sound system. The seats are supremely comfortable and offer excellent support, even on long journeys.

Safety and Technology

Both the Highlander and Range Rover Sport come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Highlander also offers Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety technologies that include lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

The Range Rover Sport features Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system, which optimizes the vehicle’s performance for various off-road conditions. It also offers a suite of driver-assist technologies, such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

The Highlander’s V6 engine is relatively fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Range Rover Sport‘s fuel economy varies depending on the engine option, with the diesel engine offering the best mileage at 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

In terms of emissions, the Highlander emits slightly less CO2 than the Range Rover Sport, with an EPA-estimated 201 grams per mile compared to 210 grams per mile for the diesel Range Rover Sport.

Off-Road Capabilities

While both the Highlander and Range Rover Sport are capable of handling light off-road trails, the Range Rover Sport has a clear advantage in this area. Its Terrain Response 2 system and advanced suspension provide superior traction and stability on rough terrain. The Range Rover Sport also offers a higher ground clearance and a wading depth of up to 33.5 inches.

Price and Value

The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $36,420, while the Range Rover Sport starts at $72,050. The Highlander offers a more affordable option, while the Range Rover Sport provides a higher level of luxury and performance. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.

Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Toyota Highlander vs. Range Rover Sport depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a spacious, fuel-efficient SUV with a comfortable interior and advanced safety features, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice. If you demand the ultimate in luxury, performance, and off-road capabilities, the Range Rover Sport is the better option.

Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Choice

The Toyota Highlander and Range Rover Sport are both exceptional SUVs that offer a unique combination of features and capabilities. The Highlander is the more affordable and fuel-efficient option, while the Range Rover Sport provides unmatched luxury, performance, and off-road prowess. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

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

Q: Which SUV offers better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy than the Range Rover Sport, achieving up to 29 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has more off-road capabilities?
A: The Range Rover Sport has superior off-road capabilities, thanks to its Terrain Response 2 system and advanced suspension.

Q: Which SUV has a higher starting price?
A: The Range Rover Sport has a higher starting price than the Toyota Highlander, starting at $72,050 compared to $36,420.

Q: Which SUV offers a more luxurious interior?
A: The Range Rover Sport offers a more luxurious interior, with premium materials, a panoramic sunroof, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system.