Toyota Highlander Vs Tacoma: Which One Is The Perfect Choice For Your Family?
What To Know
- When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid reigns supreme, delivering an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Tacoma, with its more powerful engines, falls short in this aspect, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine, and 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine.
- The Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers superior fuel efficiency compared to the Tacoma, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Tacoma offers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine.
In the competitive automotive arena, the Toyota Highlander and Tacoma stand out as compelling choices for drivers seeking versatility, capability, and comfort. Both vehicles boast impressive features, but their distinct personalities cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison guide delves into the intricacies of the Toyota Highlander vs Tacoma, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique requirements.
Toyota Highlander vs Tacoma: An Overview
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV renowned for its spacious cabin, refined ride quality, and family-friendly amenities. On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and exceptional towing and hauling capabilities.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a combined output of 243 horsepower. The Tacoma, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine generating 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, or an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of capability, the Toyota Tacoma takes the lead with its robust towing and hauling capacities. Properly equipped, the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds and haul up to 1,685 pounds. The Highlander, while not as capable as the Tacoma, can still tow up to 5,000 pounds and haul up to 1,500 pounds.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid reigns supreme, delivering an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Tacoma, with its more powerful engines, falls short in this aspect, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine, and 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The Tacoma, while not as spacious as the Highlander, provides ample room for five passengers and a comfortable ride quality. Both vehicles come standard with a range of amenities, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, the Highlander offers more upscale features, such as heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
Safety Features
The Toyota Highlander and Tacoma both come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additionally, the Highlander offers advanced safety features such as lane departure alert, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Tacoma, while not as well-equipped as the Highlander, still offers features like a pre-collision system with automatic emergency braking and lane departure alert.
Price
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,850, while the Toyota Tacoma starts at $26,500. However, the price can vary depending on the trim level and options chosen.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Tacoma depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Highlander is an excellent option. However, if you need a vehicle capable of tackling rugged terrain and hauling heavy loads, the Tacoma is the clear choice.
The Bottom Line: Embracing Versatility and Capability
The Toyota Highlander and Tacoma represent two distinct approaches to automotive excellence. The Highlander embodies versatility, comfort, and family-friendly features, while the Tacoma embodies ruggedness, capability, and off-road prowess. Whether you seek adventure on the open road or prioritize everyday practicality, these vehicles offer compelling options tailored to your unique lifestyle. Embrace the versatility of the Highlander or harness the capability of the Tacoma – the choice is yours to make.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander or Tacoma?
A1: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers superior fuel efficiency compared to the Tacoma, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Tacoma offers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine.
Q2: Does the Toyota Highlander have more seating capacity than the Tacoma?
A2: Yes, the Toyota Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Tacoma provides seating for up to five passengers.
Q3: Which vehicle is more capable for off-road adventures, the Highlander or Tacoma?
A3: The Toyota Tacoma excels in off-road capability with its robust towing and hauling capacities, along with features like four-wheel drive and a locking rear differential. The Highlander, while not as capable off-road as the Tacoma, offers all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in various conditions.