7-seater showdown: toyota highlander vs prado – which suv has the edge?

When it comes to choosing a capable and versatile SUV, the Toyota Highlander and Toyota Prado stand out as two exceptional options. Both vehicles offer a blend of ruggedness, comfort, and technology, making them ideal for families, adventurers, and daily commuters alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and Prado, helping you make an informed decision about which SUV best suits your needs.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Toyota Prado is renowned for its exceptional off-road prowess. It features a robust body-on-frame construction, a full-time four-wheel drive system, and advanced terrain management systems that allow it to tackle challenging trails with ease. Its high ground clearance and approach/departure angles provide increased maneuverability in uneven terrain.

On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander is primarily designed for on-road driving but offers decent off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system and ground clearance. While it may not be as adept as the Prado in extreme off-road conditions, it can handle light off-roading and snowy roads with confidence.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Toyota Highlander and Prado offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Highlander has a three-row seating configuration that can accommodate up to eight passengers, making it an excellent choice for large families. Its second and third rows provide ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants.

The Prado, while offering a more compact interior, still provides adequate space for five to seven passengers. Its front seats are supportive and offer excellent visibility, while the rear seats are spacious and comfortable. However, the third row of seats in the Prado is best suited for occasional use.

Technology and Features

The Toyota Highlander and Prado both come equipped with a host of advanced technology and convenience features. The Highlander features a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium audio system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.

The Prado also offers an impressive array of technology, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a robust suite of safety features. Additionally, it offers off-road-specific features such as a multi-terrain monitor and a downhill assist control system.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Toyota Highlander offers impressive fuel economy for its size, with its V6 engine delivering an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model achieves even better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

The Toyota Prado, with its larger engine and heavier construction, has lower fuel efficiency ratings. Its V6 engine delivers an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Reliability and Maintenance

Toyota vehicles are known for their exceptional reliability and low maintenance costs. Both the Highlander and Prado have proven to be highly reliable, with few reported issues. Regular maintenance and servicing are essential to ensure the longevity and performance of any vehicle, and both SUVs require routine maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Price and Value

The Toyota Highlander and Prado offer competitive pricing within their respective segments. The Highlander has a starting price of around $35,000, while the Prado starts at around $45,000. The specific price of each vehicle will vary depending on the trim level and options chosen.

In terms of value, both SUVs offer a lot for the money. The Highlander provides excellent value for families and commuters, offering a spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive fuel economy. The Prado offers exceptional off-road capabilities, a robust construction, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it a great choice for adventurers and those who frequently encounter challenging terrain.

The Verdict: Toyota Highlander vs Prado

The Toyota Highlander and Prado are both excellent SUVs that cater to different needs and preferences. The Highlander is an ideal choice for families and daily commuters, offering a spacious and comfortable interior, advanced technology, and impressive fuel economy. The Prado, on the other hand, is the ultimate choice for off-road enthusiasts and those who require a vehicle capable of tackling challenging terrain with confidence.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Highlander and Prado depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Highlander is an excellent option. If you demand exceptional off-road capabilities, a robust construction, and advanced safety features, the Prado is the SUV for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Highlander or Prado?
A: The Toyota Prado is the clear winner in terms of off-road capabilities, thanks to its robust body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive system, and advanced terrain management systems.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious interior with three rows of seating and ample legroom and headroom for all occupants.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Highlander, particularly the hybrid model, offers better fuel economy than the Prado, delivering up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Prado are known for their exceptional reliability and low maintenance costs, with few reported issues.

Q: Which SUV has a higher resale value?
A: The Toyota Highlander typically has a higher resale value than the Prado due to its popularity and strong demand in the used car market.