Suv showdown: highlander vs vanguard – unmasking the true winner

Introduction:

When it comes to choosing a spacious and reliable SUV for your family, the Toyota Highlander and Vanguard stand out as popular options. Both vehicles offer a comfortable and feature-rich driving experience, but which one is the right choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two SUVs, helping you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design:

The Highlander boasts a bold and muscular exterior, with a large grille and angular headlights. Its sleek lines and aggressive stance give it a sporty appearance. In contrast, the Vanguard has a more conservative design, with a rounded grille and smooth curves. It exudes a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Interior Space and Comfort:

Both the Highlander and Vanguard offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The Highlander has a slightly larger cabin, with more legroom and headroom in both rows. The Vanguard, however, offers a more luxurious interior, with premium materials and comfortable seats.

Powertrain and Performance:

The Highlander is available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is optional. The Vanguard is powered by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive.

Fuel Economy:

The Highlander is more fuel-efficient than the Vanguard. The V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Vanguard, on the other hand, gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features:

Both the Highlander and Vanguard come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and airbags. The Highlander has a slight edge in safety ratings, earning a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Vanguard received a four-star rating.

Technology and Features:

The Highlander and Vanguard offer a range of advanced technology and convenience features. Both vehicles feature touchscreen infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Highlander has a larger 8-inch touchscreen, while the Vanguard has a 7-inch screen. Other available features include navigation, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Price and Value:

The Toyota Highlander has a higher starting price than the Vanguard. The base Highlander LE starts at around $35,000, while the base Vanguard XE starts at around $30,000. However, the Highlander offers more standard features and a more powerful engine, making it a better value for the money.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Highlander and Vanguard depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space, power, and fuel economy, the Highlander is a great option. If you prefer a more luxurious interior, conservative styling, and a lower price tag, the Vanguard is a solid choice.

FAQs:

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Highlander has a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.

Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Highlander has a better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Highlander has a slightly larger cabin with more legroom and headroom.

Q: Which SUV has a more luxurious interior?
A: The Vanguard has a more luxurious interior with premium materials and comfortable seats.

Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: The Highlander has a higher overall safety rating from the NHTSA.