The toyota suv duel: sequoia vs. grand highlander – which one is right for you?
What To Know
- Expect fuel economy ratings of around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the Grand Highlander, while the Sequoia gets around 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
- The Toyota Sequoia has a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 lbs, while the Grand Highlander has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
- Both the Toyota Sequoia and Grand Highlander offer advanced technology features, but the Grand Highlander has a slight edge with its Toyota Safety Sense 3.
When it comes to full-size SUVs, two giants stand out: the Toyota Sequoia and the Grand Highlander. Both offer exceptional capabilities, advanced features, and spacious interiors. However, each has its unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Toyota Sequoia and Grand Highlander, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Power and Performance
The Sequoia boasts a massive 5.7L V8 engine that delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine provides ample acceleration and towing capacity, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. In contrast, the Grand Highlander offers a more fuel-efficient 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that generates 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While less powerful, the Grand Highlander provides a smoother and more responsive driving experience.
Towing and Payload Capacity
If towing is your primary concern, the Sequoia takes the lead with a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 lbs. This impressive capability makes it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, and other heavy loads. The Grand Highlander, on the other hand, has a more modest towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, which is still adequate for most recreational activities.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Sequoia offers superior off-road capabilities thanks to its rugged body-on-frame construction, multi-terrain select system, and available Crawl Control. With a ground clearance of 10.6 inches, the Sequoia can navigate rough terrains with ease. The Grand Highlander, with its unibody construction and lower ground clearance, is more suited for on-road driving.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Sequoia and Grand Highlander offer spacious interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. However, the Sequoia has a slight edge in terms of cargo space, with 120.1 cubic feet behind the first row of seats compared to the Grand Highlander’s 84.3 cubic feet. Both vehicles feature comfortable seats, premium materials, and a range of amenities to enhance passenger comfort.
Technology and Safety Features
The Sequoia and Grand Highlander come equipped with a suite of advanced technology and safety features. The Sequoia features a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, JBL audio system, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite. The Grand Highlander offers a similar level of technology, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
Fuel Economy
As expected, the Grand Highlander has a fuel economy advantage over the Sequoia. The 4-cylinder engine and hybrid powertrain options available in the Grand Highlander contribute to its impressive fuel efficiency. Expect fuel economy ratings of around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the Grand Highlander, while the Sequoia gets around 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Toyota Sequoia starts at around $58,000, while the Grand Highlander has a lower starting price of around $36,000. The Grand Highlander offers a more affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped SUV. However, the Sequoia provides more power, towing capacity, and off-road capabilities for those who need a full-size workhorse.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Toyota Sequoia and Grand Highlander ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a powerful and capable SUV for towing, off-roading, or hauling large loads, the Sequoia is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and a more refined driving experience, the Grand Highlander is an excellent option.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Toyota Sequoia has a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 lbs, while the Grand Highlander has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
2. Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
The Toyota Sequoia has superior off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction, multi-terrain select system, and available Crawl Control.
3. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The Toyota Sequoia has a slightly more spacious interior with 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row of seats, compared to the Grand Highlander‘s 84.3 cubic feet.
4. Which vehicle has more advanced technology features?
Both the Toyota Sequoia and Grand Highlander offer advanced technology features, but the Grand Highlander has a slight edge with its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite and larger touchscreen infotainment system.
5. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Toyota Grand Highlander has better fuel economy than the Sequoia, with ratings of around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the Sequoia’s 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
