Safety, style, and performance: the toyota highlander vs lexus rx350 face-off

The Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 are two highly respected midsize SUVs that consistently rank among the top choices for families and individuals alike. Both vehicles offer a blend of comfort, versatility, and performance, making them formidable competitors in the market. In this comprehensive analysis, we will compare the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 across various aspects to determine which SUV emerges victorious.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The Lexus RX350, on the other hand, features a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Highlander slightly edges out the RX350. The Highlander achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the RX350 gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Features

Inside, the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 offer spacious and well-appointed cabins. The Highlander boasts a modern and functional design, while the RX350 exudes luxury and sophistication.

Both SUVs offer a wide range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, the RX350 comes with a more advanced infotainment system and a premium sound system as standard.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority for both the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350. Both vehicles have earned top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

In terms of reliability, Toyota has a reputation for producing vehicles with exceptional durability and longevity. Lexus, on the other hand, is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Cargo and Towing Capacity

The Toyota Highlander offers more cargo space than the Lexus RX350. With the rear seats folded down, the Highlander provides 84.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, while the RX350 offers 56.5 cubic feet.

Both SUVs have similar towing capacities. The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the RX350 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Price and Value

The Toyota Highlander has a lower starting price than the Lexus RX350. The base Highlander starts at around $36,000, while the base RX350 starts at around $47,000.

However, the RX350 offers a more luxurious and feature-rich experience. Whether the added amenities justify the price difference is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 are both excellent SUVs that offer a blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. The Highlander is the more affordable and practical choice, while the RX350 provides a more luxurious and refined experience.

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 an excellent choice. If you prioritize luxury, refinement, and advanced features, the Lexus RX350 is the better option.

The Verdict: A Close Race with Slight Advantages

In this comprehensive comparison, both the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 have proven to be formidable competitors. The Highlander offers a more spacious interior, better fuel efficiency, and a lower starting price. The RX350, on the other hand, provides a more luxurious cabin, a more advanced infotainment system, and higher safety ratings.

Ultimately, the winner of this showdown comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize practicality, affordability, and space, the Toyota Highlander is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize luxury, refinement, and advanced features, the Lexus RX350 is the better option.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: The Lexus RX350 has a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and a premium sound system.

Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX350 have earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Toyota Highlander comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Lexus RX350 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more cargo space than the Lexus RX350, with 84.3 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down compared to 56.5 cubic feet in the RX350.

Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Lexus RX350’s 3,500-pound towing capacity.