Toyota RAV4 vs Highlander: Performance

When you get on the road with one of these SUVs, you’ll get to enjoy an incredible driving experience. However, before choosing between them, consider whether excellent fuel economy or power is most important to you.

The Highlander packs a serious punch under the hood; its standard engine offers:

• 295 horsepower
• 263 lb-ft of torque
• EPA-estimated 21 city and 29 highway MPG¹

Altogether, that’s sure to offer a fun drive experience. Though, the RAV4 can certainly keep up. While its standard engine offers slightly less output, it more than makes up for that with its astonishing fuel economy. The RAV4 earned EPA-estimated 28 city and 35 highway MPG, so you’ll get to spend significantly less time at the gas pump and more on the road.²

There are many similarities between the performance features found in either vehicle as well. Both are available with a few capable all-wheel drivetrains, and each comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, both SUVs are available with hybrid trims, which will take your fuel economy to a whole new level.

RAV4 vs Highlander: A Spacious Interior

The biggest difference you’ll find between these SUVs comes down to size. The RAV4 is a compact SUV with two rows that can seat up to five passengers, whereas the Highlander is a full-size SUV with three rows and seating for up to eight passengers. When choosing between them, an important consideration is how much passenger space you need.

Otherwise, you’ll find that the interior space is fairly comparable between both vehicles. Take the headroom and legroom of both models, for instance:

Naturally, you’ll find a similar difference in the cargo capacity of either vehicle. However, they both have plenty of room for everything from groceries to luggage in the cargo area. The RAV4 has a maximum cargo capacity of 69.8 cubic feet. On the other hand, the Highlander can offer up to 84.3 cubic feet of space.

2021 RAV4 vs 2021 Highlander: Impressive Technology

What standard features can you expect to find inside each SUV? Since these are two Toyota SUVs, you can trust that they are packed with reliable safety technology. Both the RAV4 and Highlander come standard with the Star Safety System™, which includes:

• Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control
• Traction Control
• Brake Assist
• Smart Stop Technology®

Additionally, the RAV4 and Highlander both have a standard Toyota Safety Sense™ system, which supplies smart sensing technology to assist your performance on the road. You’ll be able to relax and enjoy the ride while features such as Automatic High Beams keep you feeling confident.