What To Know
- The Highlander, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,560 pounds, is better suited for smaller loads.
- Whether you choose the Toyota Tundra or the Highlander, you’ll be getting a reliable and well-equipped vehicle from one of the most trusted automakers in the world.
- The Highlander has better fuel economy than the Tundra, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the Tundra’s 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
The Toyota Tundra and Highlander are two of Toyota’s most popular vehicles, each offering unique strengths and capabilities. Whether you’re searching for a rugged pickup truck or a spacious family SUV, the Tundra and Highlander are worthy contenders. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two Toyota stalwarts, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs.
Performance and Power
The Tundra is a full-size pickup truck, while the Highlander is a midsize SUV. As a result, they offer vastly different performance capabilities. The Tundra’s available 5.7-liter V8 engine delivers up to 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, making it a formidable choice for towing and hauling. The Highlander, on the other hand, features a more fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
Towing and Payload Capacity
If towing and hauling are your primary concerns, the Tundra reigns supreme. With a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,940 pounds, the Tundra is well-suited for heavy-duty tasks. The Highlander, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,560 pounds, is better suited for smaller loads.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Tundra offers impressive off-road capabilities, thanks to its available four-wheel drive system and rugged suspension. The TRD Pro model adds features like a lifted suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires, making it a formidable choice for off-road enthusiasts. The Highlander, while not as capable off-road as the Tundra, still offers some light off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Highlander has a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, while the second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom. The Tundra, while not as roomy as the Highlander, still offers a comfortable interior with seating for up to five passengers. The front seats are spacious, but the rear seats may be a bit cramped for taller passengers.
Cargo Capacity
The Highlander boasts a generous cargo capacity of up to 84.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Tundra, with its pickup bed, offers a maximum cargo capacity of 72.6 cubic feet. However, the Tundra’s bed provides more versatility for hauling larger items that may not fit inside the Highlander.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many drivers. The Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Tundra’s 5.7-liter V8 engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings, with an EPA-estimated 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Tundra and Highlander come standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of safety features, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Highlander also offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Which is Right for You?
The Toyota Tundra and Highlander are two excellent vehicles that cater to different needs. If you require a rugged pickup truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, the Tundra is the clear choice. If you prioritize interior space, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, the Highlander is the more suitable option.
The Final Verdict
Whether you choose the Toyota Tundra or the Highlander, you’ll be getting a reliable and well-equipped vehicle from one of the most trusted automakers in the world. Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed choice that will meet your needs for years to come.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy, the Tundra or the Highlander?
A: The Highlander has better fuel economy than the Tundra, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the Tundra’s 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has more towing capacity, the Tundra or the Highlander?
A: The Tundra has a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds, while the Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle has more interior space, the Tundra or the Highlander?
A: The Highlander has more interior space than the Tundra, with seating for up to eight passengers and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet compared to the Tundra’s seating for up to five passengers and a maximum cargo capacity of 72.6 cubic feet.