Unveiling the best: toyota highlander vs vw touareg head-to-head
What To Know
- In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the clear winner, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to the VW Touareg’s 20 mpg combined with the V6 engine.
- Power gives the Highlander a reliability rating of 88 out of 100, while the Touareg receives a rating of 81 out of 100.
- In terms of resale value, the Toyota Highlander is expected to retain a higher percentage of its value over time compared to the VW Touareg.
The Toyota Highlander and Volkswagen Touareg are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market. They offer a blend of space, comfort, and performance, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Highlander against the VW Touareg to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. The VW Touareg comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, and offers an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the clear winner, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to the VW Touareg’s 20 mpg combined with the V6 engine. The Highlander’s V6 engine achieves 21 mpg combined, while the Touareg’s optional V6 turbo delivers 22 mpg combined.
Interior and Cargo Space
Both the Toyota Highlander and VW Touareg offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Highlander has a seating capacity of up to eight passengers, while the Touareg can accommodate up to five. The Highlander’s cabin is more family-friendly, with plenty of storage compartments, easy-to-use infotainment system, and comfortable seats. The Touareg’s interior is more luxurious, with high-quality materials and a more upscale design.
In terms of cargo space, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge over the VW Touareg. With the third row of seats folded down, the Highlander offers 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to 73.5 cubic feet in the Touareg. With all seats in place, the Highlander has 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Touareg offers 11.7 cubic feet.
Technology and Safety Features
Both the Toyota Highlander and VW Touareg come equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. The Highlander features Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection. The Touareg offers a similar range of safety features, including lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and front assist with pedestrian monitoring.
In terms of infotainment, the Toyota Highlander comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, while the VW Touareg features a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Both systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as navigation and a premium audio system.
Off-Road Capabilities
While both the Toyota Highlander and VW Touareg are primarily designed for on-road driving, they both offer some off-road capabilities. The Highlander comes with an optional all-wheel drive system and a multi-terrain select system that allows you to choose the best driving mode for different conditions. The Touareg offers a more advanced 4Motion all-wheel drive system with multiple driving modes, as well as an optional air suspension that provides adjustable ground clearance.
Reliability and Resale Value
Toyota has a well-established reputation for reliability, and the Highlander is no exception. J.D. Power gives the Highlander a reliability rating of 88 out of 100, while the Touareg receives a rating of 81 out of 100. In terms of resale value, the Toyota Highlander is expected to retain a higher percentage of its value over time compared to the VW Touareg.
Pricing and Trims
The Toyota Highlander is available in six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Prices start at $34,910 for the base L trim and go up to $49,660 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim. The VW Touareg is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL Premium R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line Black Edition. Prices start at $50,570 for the base SE trim and go up to $65,390 for the SEL Premium R-Line Black Edition trim.
Recommendations: The Better Choice
The Toyota Highlander and VW Touareg are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize fuel economy, reliability, and family-friendly features, the Toyota Highlander is the better choice. If you prefer a more luxurious interior, advanced off-road capabilities, and a higher level of performance, the VW Touareg is the way to go. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a better fuel economy than the VW Touareg, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined compared to 20 mpg combined.
2. Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious interior, with seating for up to eight passengers and 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded down.
3. Which SUV has more advanced safety features?
Both the Toyota Highlander and VW Touareg offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the VW Touareg has a slight edge with features like lane assist and front assist with pedestrian monitoring.
4. Which SUV is more reliable?
The Toyota Highlander has a better reliability rating than the VW Touareg, with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 88 out of 100 compared to 81 out of 100.
5. Which SUV has a higher resale value?
The Toyota Highlander is expected to retain a higher percentage of its value over time compared to the VW Touareg.