An SUV is a versatile vehicle that’s perfect for your daily commute or a weekend getaway with the family. If you like the reliability and quality of Toyotas, the good news is you have options when choosing your next SUV. While both the RAV4 and Highlander are excellent selections, they both have their own unique benefits that probably make one more suited for your needs than the other.
If you’re unsure which of Toyota’s outstanding SUVs is the right one for you, don’t worry. This guide has everything you need to know to determine which SUV is your best match.
Size
One of the biggest differences between these two Toyota SUVs is size, with the Highlander being the bigger vehicle. Both options have their benefits, so it comes down to what you need from your SUV.
If you have a smaller family or you need a more compact SUV to fit in tight spaces, consider the RAV4. It is just over a foot shorter than the Highlander and also 2.5 inches narrower. When trying to fit into tight spaces, those reduced inches can make a world of difference. The RAV4 is also a little easier to maneuver. Two rows of seating fit up to five passengers comfortably.
If you need a little bit more room in your SUV, you may prefer the Highlander. With that extra space comes some additional functionality inside the car. Not only does it offer more storage space, but it also features a third row of seats, fitting up to eight passengers. If you have a large family or transport a lot of gear, the Highlander is a good choice.
Interior Design & Systems
Image via Flickr by Janitors
Although both the Highlander and RAV4 have lovely designs, they offer their own unique perks. Both vehicles are ready to keep you warm when the temperatures dip with heated front seats and steering wheels. The RAV4 comes standard with fabric- and SoftTex-trimmed seats that look great and can withstand years of everyday wear and tear while maintaining their lovely appearance. The climate control system also comes with a dust and pollen filter, keeping the air inside the cabin clean.
As a larger vehicle, the Highlander also includes some more powerful systems in order to keep your time in the SUV comfortable and enjoyable. You’ll notice a stronger air conditioning system that keeps all three rows comfortable, with individual climate zones that each row can control for optimal temperatures. The Highlander also offers some premium design choices to spruce up the interior, should you be so inclined, such as leather trim options for your seats. Captain’s chairs are also available for the second row.
Engine And Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is probably one of your main considerations when it comes to finding the right SUV. The more time you’ll be spending behind the wheel, the more stops at gas stations you’ll need to make. It should come as no surprise that, when compared side by side, the smaller RAV4 offers fuel efficiency than the Highlander.
If you’re torn between the two options, you may be surprised to learn that there’s little difference in fuel mileage between the two on the open road. While the RAV4 does perform better on highways, getting 35 mpg, the Highlander comes in just behind it with 33 mpg.
Where you can find more disparity is in city driving. While the Highlander gets an estimated 25 mpg in the city, the RAV4 impressively maintains its 35 mpg rating. Combined with the smaller frame, the RAV4 is a good option if you live in the city.
Both the RAV4 and Highlander have hybrid options, too. When you go with a hybrid option, you can expect even better fuel efficiency, with the RAV4 hybrid getting up to 41 mpg in the city and the Highlander hybrid getting up to 36 mpg.
While the Highlander’s fuel efficiency isn’t as optimal as the RAV4’s, it does has a more powerful engine. Standard on non-hybrid Highlander is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that gets 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, and the RAV4 features a 2.5-liter engine that gets 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.
Technology
One area where you truly can’t go wrong with either the RAV4 or the Highlander is in the assortment of technological amenities at your disposal. From touch screens to help you easily navigate around your car’s various systems to voice commands that allow you to stay in control without needing to look away from the road, you get a blend of safety and functionality.
Built-in USB ports make it easier to grab just one cable for charging, and both SUVs can integrate with your smartphone via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. That way, you can easily make phone calls, send texts, and listen to your favorite music without getting distracted.
Safety
Toyota is renowned for producing cars with safety as a priority, often earning some of the best safety ratings in the industry. No matter whether you opt for a RAV4 or a Highlander, the good news is that you can count on this tradition to continue with your new SUV.
Standard safety features available in both models include the Toyota Sense P safety system, and you can select plenty of add-ons. Safety measures like lane departure alerts, steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control help to protect you and your passengers every time you head out on the road.
For enhanced safety options, the Highlander offers some unique options, including parking sonar for both the front and rear. If you’re going to be towing with the Highlander, trailer sway control keeps your cargo safe and secure.
If you still can’t decide between the Toyota RAV4 and the Toyota Highlander, there’s one simple way to determine which is right for you: get in touch or visit Panama City Toyota today to test drive both. Our fantastic sales associates will get you behind the wheel of the Toyota of your choice today.
