What To Know
- The Q7’s more pronounced curves and sharper angles give it a sportier appearance, while the Highlander’s boxier shape conveys a more rugged and spacious feel.
- 5-liter V6, returning an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the Highlander.
- The Highlander is more affordable, spacious, and fuel-efficient, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a practical and reliable daily driver.
Introduction:
The Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 are two highly acclaimed crossover SUVs that have earned a reputation for excellence in their respective segments. Whether you’re seeking comfort, capability, or luxury, these vehicles offer a compelling blend of features that cater to discerning drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 to help you make an informed decision about your next SUV purchase.
Dimensions and Design
The Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 are both large SUVs, but the Q7 has a slightly larger footprint. The Highlander measures 194.9 inches in length, 76.0 inches in width, and 68.9 inches in height, while the Q7 comes in at 196.1 inches, 77.1 inches, and 68.6 inches, respectively. The Q7’s more pronounced curves and sharper angles give it a sportier appearance, while the Highlander’s boxier shape conveys a more rugged and spacious feel.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 offer a range of engine options. The Highlander’s base model features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The Q7, on the other hand, comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of performance, the Q7’s turbocharged engine provides more responsive acceleration, especially at lower speeds. The Highlander’s V6 engine offers ample power for most driving situations but may feel less spirited under heavy load. Both vehicles come standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its larger size and more powerful engine, the Audi Q7 manages to achieve better fuel economy than the Toyota Highlander. The Q7’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is more efficient than the Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6, returning an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the Highlander.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 offer spacious and comfortable cabins. The Highlander has a slight advantage in terms of interior volume, with 144.1 cubic feet of passenger space compared to 141.4 cubic feet in the Q7. However, the Q7’s interior is more refined and luxurious, featuring premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a host of advanced technological features.
Technology and Safety
The Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 come equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. The Highlander’s infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. The Q7’s infotainment system is even more advanced, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a virtual cockpit with a fully digital instrument cluster.
In terms of safety, both vehicles received high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Q7 offers a similar suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense City, Audi Side Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Assist with Stop & Go.
Price and Value
The Toyota Highlander is generally more affordable than the Audi Q7. The base Highlander LE starts at $35,850, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim level comes in at $49,150. The Audi Q7 has a higher starting price of $55,800 for the base Premium trim level, and the fully loaded Prestige trim level costs $75,300.
Conclusion: The Ideal Crossover for Your Needs
The Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 are both excellent crossover SUVs that offer a unique blend of features and capabilities. The Highlander is more affordable, spacious, and fuel-efficient, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a practical and reliable daily driver. The Q7, on the other hand, is more luxurious, technologically advanced, and powerful, making it a top pick for those who prioritize comfort, performance, and prestige. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
FAQ
1. Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
The Toyota Highlander has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Audi Q7, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row of seats compared to 14.2 cubic feet in the Q7.
2. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the Audi Q7, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to 4,400 pounds for the Q7.
3. Which vehicle has a better warranty?
Both the Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 come with comprehensive warranties. The Highlander has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the Q7 has a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 4-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty.