Toyota sienna or highlander: which ultimate family vehicle reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system combines the four-cylinder engine with electric motors to deliver a combined 243 horsepower.
- The Highlander’s V6 engine offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- The Highlander hybrid system, however, provides the best fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to family-friendly vehicles, Toyota reigns supreme with two exceptional options: the Toyota Sienna minivan and the Toyota Highlander SUV. Both vehicles offer spaciousness, comfort, and advanced features, making them ideal for families of all sizes. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Toyota Sienna vs Highlander to help you make an informed decision that best suits your family’s needs.
Body Style and Dimensions
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan, while the Toyota Highlander is an SUV. Minivans are known for their boxy shape and sliding doors, providing ample space and easy access to the interior. SUVs, on the other hand, feature a more rugged design with elevated ground clearance and a sloping roofline.
In terms of dimensions, the Sienna is slightly longer and wider than the Highlander, offering more overall interior volume. The Highlander, however, has a higher ground clearance, making it better suited for off-road adventures.
Seating and Interior Space
Both the Sienna and Highlander offer comfortable and versatile seating arrangements. The Sienna provides seating for up to eight passengers, with available captain’s chairs in the second row for added comfort. The Highlander, on the other hand, typically seats five or seven passengers, depending on the trim level.
Cargo Capacity
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Sienna reigns supreme. With its spacious interior and configurable seating, the Sienna offers up to 150 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. The Highlander, while still offering ample cargo space, falls short of the Sienna’s capacity, with a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet.
Powertrain Options
The Toyota Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and towing.
The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system combines the four-cylinder engine with electric motors to deliver a combined 243 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an important consideration for families on the go. The Sienna’s V6 engine delivers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Highlander’s V6 engine offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Highlander hybrid system, however, provides the best fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Sienna and Highlander are equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of advanced safety features, which includes lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Sienna also offers available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Highlander features available panoramic view monitor and hands-free liftgate.
Technology and Infotainment
The Toyota Sienna and Highlander offer a modern and feature-rich infotainment system. Both vehicles come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Sienna offers an available 12-speaker JBL premium audio system, while the Highlander features an available 10-speaker JBL premium audio system.
Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The Toyota Sienna and Highlander are both excellent vehicles for families, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Sienna offers unparalleled interior space and cargo capacity, making it ideal for large families or those who frequently transport bulky items. The Highlander, on the other hand, provides a more rugged and versatile option with its higher ground clearance and available hybrid powertrain.
Ultimately, the best vehicle for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize space and cargo capacity, the Toyota Sienna is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more rugged and versatile SUV with better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander is a great option.
Wrap-Up: Toyota Sienna vs Highlander – A Family-Friendly Face-Off
Both the Toyota Sienna minivan and the Toyota Highlander SUV offer exceptional options for families seeking spacious, comfortable, and feature-rich vehicles. The Sienna’s unparalleled interior space and cargo capacity make it ideal for large families or those who frequently transport bulky items. The Highlander’s rugged design, available hybrid powertrain, and versatile seating options make it a great choice for families who prioritize fuel economy and off-road adventures.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance, the Sienna or Highlander?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a higher ground clearance of 8.3 inches, compared to the Sienna’s 6.1 inches.
Q: Which vehicle offers more seating capacity, the Sienna or Highlander?
A: The Toyota Sienna offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Highlander typically seats five or seven passengers.
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy, the Sienna or Highlander?
A: The Toyota Highlander hybrid system offers the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.