Engine Performance & Efficiency

Visibly, the RAV4 and the Highlander are very similar: Both are sleek SUVs with innate style and design. When you get past their exterior appearance, though, you’ll find some differences. One important area that will differ between these two vehicles is found in their respective powertrains.

Under the hood of the RAV4, you’ll find a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that wields 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Highlander features a 3.5L V6 engine capable of producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. While these figures differ, either model is sure to provide a sporty drive.

As powerful as these vehicles are, they’re both also impressively efficient. The Highlander earns an EPA-estimated 21 city/29 highway MPG, while the RAV4 earns an EPA-estimated 27 city/34 highway MPG.^{1, 2}. So, these two SUVs will both save you time and money at those pesky gas pumps.

Interior Comfort & Amenities

When exploring an SUV, another key area you’ll want to evaluate is its interior, in terms of both space and technology. In terms of space, the RAV4 and the Highlander both offer versatility. In the RAV4, you’ll be able to seat up to five passengers, while the Highlander will seat up to eight passengers.

Beyond the space available, you’ll want to take a look at some of the technology that will keep you connected while on the go. In both vehicles, you’ll find the same audio multimedia system with:

• Android Autoä
• Apple CarPlay^Ò
• Amazon Alexa
• Bluetooth^Ò
• 6 speakers

However, the screen in the Highlander is a bit larger at eight inches. Meanwhile, the display screen in the RAV4 measures seven inches.

Safety & Assistive Technology

Continuing with the trend of technology, it’s also important to evaluate the safety and driver-assistive technology at work in these two Toyota SUVs. Both vehicles will impress in this department, although there are a few differences.

The most notable difference between their two safety systems lies within their assistive technology. The RAV4 comes with Toyota Safety Senseä 2.0, while the Highlander comes with Toyota Safety Senseä 2.5+. While these systems are slightly different, they both come with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and:

• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Road Sign Assist

Additionally, both Toyota SUVs come with the Star Safety Systemä that features other innovative technology, like Brake Assist and Smart Stop Technology^Ò.