Family car face-off: toyota sienna vs highlander – space, comfort, and safety compared
What To Know
- The Highlander’s hybrid option boasts an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers.
- The Toyota Highlander is a better fit for families who desire a more rugged SUV with good ground clearance and off-road capabilities.
- Whether you’re looking for a spacious minivan or a versatile SUV, the Toyota Sienna and Toyota Highlander are both excellent options that will serve your family well.
Introduction:
In the competitive realm of family vehicles, two titans stand tall: the Toyota Sienna and the Toyota Highlander. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced technology, and renowned Toyota reliability. However, discerning buyers may wonder which one reigns supreme in meeting their specific needs. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between the Toyota Sienna vs Toyota Highlander, providing you with the insights to make an informed decision.
Space and Versatility
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan, renowned for its unparalleled interior space and versatility. It features three rows of seats, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably. The second and third rows fold flat, creating a cavernous cargo area for hauling bulky items. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander is an SUV with three rows of seats for up to eight passengers. While it offers less cargo space than the Sienna, its higher ground clearance provides better visibility and off-road capabilities.
Power and Performance
Both the Toyota Sienna and Toyota Highlander offer a range of powertrain options. The Sienna comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower. The Highlander offers a choice between a 3.5-liter V6 with 295 horsepower or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with 243 horsepower. The Sienna’s V6 engine provides ample power for acceleration and towing, while the Highlander’s hybrid option offers improved fuel efficiency.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for family vehicles. The Toyota Sienna with the 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Toyota Highlander with the 3.5-liter V6 engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Highlander’s hybrid option boasts an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Technology and Safety
Both the Toyota Sienna and Toyota Highlander come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. These include pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. Additionally, the Sienna offers an optional 12-speaker JBL audio system, while the Highlander features an available 10-speaker JBL sound system.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
The Toyota Sienna and Toyota Highlander provide comfortable and well-equipped interiors. The Sienna features a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. Its second-row captain‘s chairs offer adjustable armrests and ottomans for added comfort. The Highlander’s interior is also spacious, with a comfortable third row that can accommodate adults. It offers heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a panoramic moonroof.
Pricing and Value
The Toyota Sienna has a starting price of $34,460, while the Toyota Highlander starts at $36,250. The Sienna’s higher price is justified by its larger interior space and more standard features. However, the Highlander’s lower starting price and available hybrid option make it a more budget-friendly choice for some families.
The Verdict: Which is Right for You?
The Toyota Sienna is the ideal choice for families who prioritize interior space, versatility, and comfort. Its cavernous cabin, fold-flat seats, and powerful engine make it the perfect vehicle for transporting large groups and bulky cargo.
The Toyota Highlander is a better fit for families who desire a more rugged SUV with good ground clearance and off-road capabilities. Its hybrid option offers excellent fuel efficiency, while its spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a spacious minivan or a versatile SUV, the Toyota Sienna and Toyota Highlander are both excellent options that will serve your family well.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Sienna has a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds compared to the Highlander’s 5,000 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle offers more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Sienna and Highlander come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, providing a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable third row?
A: The Highlander has a more comfortable third row with more legroom and headroom compared to the Sienna.
