Toyota Highlander Vs Volvo Xc60: Which Suv Reigns Supreme? A Comprehensive Comparison Of Performance, Safety, And Features

In the realm of midsize SUVs, two prominent contenders stand out: the Toyota Highlander and the Volvo XC60. Both vehicles offer exceptional performance, advanced features, and a comfortable driving experience. However, discerning buyers often face the dilemma of choosing between these two remarkable SUVs. To assist you in making an informed decision, this comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of the Toyota Highlander and Volvo XC60, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics.

Performance and Efficiency

Engine Options:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid system combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors for a combined output of 243 horsepower.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Higher trim levels offer more powerful engine options, including a plug-in hybrid variant with a combined output of 400 horsepower.

Fuel Economy:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model boasts an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60’s standard engine delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The plug-in hybrid model offers an all-electric range of up to 35 miles and an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 58 mpg.

Interior and Comfort

Seating and Space:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers with three rows of seats. The second and third rows can be folded down to create a spacious cargo area.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 provides seating for up to five passengers with two rows of seats. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo capacity.

Comfort and Convenience:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s interior features comfortable seats, ample legroom and headroom, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Higher trim levels offer heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60’s cabin exudes Scandinavian luxury with high-quality materials, supportive seats, and a sleek dashboard design. It comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Safety and Technology

Safety Features:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander comes standard with a suite of safety features, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 is renowned for its exceptional safety features, earning top ratings from various safety organizations. It comes standard with lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer a blind-spot information system, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

Technology Features:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Higher trim levels offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a wireless charging pad.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60’s infotainment system boasts a sleek and intuitive interface with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Higher trim levels offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a head-up display.

Off-Road Capabilities

All-Wheel Drive Systems:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers an available all-wheel drive system with a multi-terrain select system that optimizes traction in various conditions.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 comes standard with an all-wheel drive system that provides excellent grip and stability on slippery surfaces. Higher trim levels offer an advanced air suspension system for enhanced off-road performance.

Ground Clearance:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, allowing it to navigate rough terrain with ease.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60’s ground clearance measures 8.5 inches, providing ample clearance for off-road adventures.

Price and Value

Starting Price:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has a starting price of $35,420 for the base L trim level.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 has a starting price of $43,900 for the base Momentum trim level.

Value Proposition:

• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers a compelling value proposition with a spacious interior, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive suite of features at a competitive price.

• Volvo XC60: The XC60 commands a higher price tag but justifies it with its luxurious interior, advanced safety features, and exceptional performance.

Wrapping Up: The Ultimate Choice

The Toyota Highlander and Volvo XC60 are both excellent choices in the midsize SUV segment. The Highlander offers a combination of practicality, reliability, and affordability, while the XC60 excels in terms of luxury, safety, and technology. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize space, fuel efficiency, and value, the Highlander is an excellent option. If you seek a luxurious, safe, and technologically advanced SUV, the XC60 is a compelling choice.

Information You Need to Know

Q1. Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC60?

A1. The Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious interior with three rows of seats and seating for up to eight passengers, while the Volvo XC60 has a more compact interior with two rows of seats and seating for up to five passengers.

Q2. Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC60?

A2. The Toyota Highlander hybrid model offers better fuel economy than the Volvo XC60, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the XC60’s 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Q3. Which SUV has more advanced safety features, the Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC60?

A3. The Volvo XC60 has more advanced safety features than the Toyota Highlander, earning top ratings from various safety organizations and offering a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.