Fuel efficiency vs power: highlander vs sequoia – which toyota suv has the edge?

When it comes to full-size SUVs, Toyota has two formidable contenders: the Highlander and the Sequoia. Both vehicles offer exceptional performance, space, and reliability, but which one is the better choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Sequoia to help you make an informed decision.

Size and Space

The Sequoia is significantly larger than the Highlander, with a longer wheelbase and overall length. This translates into more spacious interiors, with the Sequoia boasting seating for up to eight passengers compared to the Highlander’s seven. However, the Highlander offers more cargo space behind the third row, making it the more practical choice for hauling bulky items.

Power and Performance

Under the hood, the Sequoia packs a more powerful V8 engine with 430 horsepower, while the Highlander offers a choice of a V6 engine with 295 horsepower or a hybrid powertrain with 243 horsepower. The Highlander’s hybrid option provides improved fuel efficiency, but the Sequoia’s V8 delivers superior acceleration and towing capacity.

Fuel Economy

The Highlander’s hybrid powertrain shines in terms of fuel economy, delivering an impressive 36 mpg combined city/highway. The V6-powered Highlander achieves 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway, while the Sequoia’s V8 engine returns 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway.

Technology and Features

Both the Highlander and Sequoia offer a comprehensive suite of technology and features. However, the Sequoia comes standard with more amenities, including a larger touchscreen display, a premium sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Highlander features a more user-friendly infotainment system and offers a wider range of safety features as standard.

Off-Road Capabilities

While both SUVs offer all-wheel drive, the Sequoia has a slight edge in off-road capabilities thanks to its standard rear-locking differential and available TRD Pro off-road package. The Highlander’s all-wheel drive system is capable of handling light off-road conditions but is primarily designed for on-road driving.

Safety

The Highlander and Sequoia have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a wide range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Sequoia ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value space, power, and off-road capabilities, the Sequoia is the better choice. However, if fuel efficiency, technology, and everyday practicality are your priorities, the Highlander is an excellent option.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Sequoia has a higher towing capacity of 7,400 pounds, compared to the Highlander’s 5,000-pound towing capacity.

Q: Which SUV gets better gas mileage?
A: The Toyota Highlander hybrid gets the best gas mileage at 36 mpg combined city/highway, while the V6-powered Highlander gets 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway and the Sequoia gets 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Highlander has more cargo space behind the third row at 16.1 cubic feet, compared to the Sequoia’s 12.9 cubic feet.