What To Know
- Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when considering two giants like the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7.
- While not as luxurious as the Q7, the Highlander offers a comfortable and functional interior perfect for families and those who prioritize practicality.
- The Audi Q7’s infotainment system is a technological marvel, featuring a large touchscreen display with a sleek and intuitive interface.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when considering two giants like the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison of the 2017 Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 will help you determine which SUV is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Design and Styling: A Tale of Two Approaches
The 2017 Toyota Highlander embraces a more traditional and conservative approach to design, prioritizing practicality and functionality. Its boxy exterior, while not as visually striking as the Q7, offers ample cargo space and a commanding driving position. The Highlander’s design is characterized by clean lines, a large grille, and a robust stance.
The Audi Q7, on the other hand, embodies a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. Its sleek lines, sharp angles, and distinctive grille exude a sense of luxury and dynamism. The Q7’s design is undeniably eye-catching, making a statement wherever it goes.
Interior Comfort and Features: A Battle of Luxury and Practicality
Inside the 2017 Toyota Highlander, you’ll find a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The Highlander’s focus on practicality is evident in its ample legroom, generous cargo space, and numerous storage compartments. While not as luxurious as the Q7, the Highlander offers a comfortable and functional interior perfect for families and those who prioritize practicality.
The Audi Q7 elevates the interior experience to a whole new level. Its cabin is a symphony of luxury, featuring premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and cutting-edge technology. The Q7’s interior is designed to pamper passengers with its plush seats, ambient lighting, and advanced infotainment system. While the Q7 may not offer as much cargo space as the Highlander, its luxurious ambiance and advanced features will undoubtedly impress.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Power and Efficiency
The 2017 Toyota Highlander is available with a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers ample power for everyday driving. Its smooth and responsive acceleration makes it a capable vehicle for highway cruising and light off-roading. The Highlander’s fuel efficiency is also commendable, making it a practical choice for families on the go.
The Audi Q7 boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers a thrilling driving experience. Its quick acceleration and responsive handling make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The Q7’s advanced quattro all-wheel drive system provides exceptional stability and traction, making it a capable vehicle for challenging driving conditions. However, the Q7’s fuel efficiency is slightly lower than the Highlander’s.
Safety Features: A Commitment to Protection
Both the 2017 Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 prioritize safety, offering an impressive suite of advanced safety features. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Q7 features Audi Pre Sense City, which includes similar safety features, along with additional technologies like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Technology and Infotainment: A Symphony of Innovation
The 2017 Toyota Highlander features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The Highlander’s infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, making it a practical choice for drivers who value simplicity.
The Audi Q7’s infotainment system is a technological marvel, featuring a large touchscreen display with a sleek and intuitive interface. The Q7’s system includes advanced features like navigation, voice control, and a premium sound system. The Q7’s infotainment system is a testament to Audi’s commitment to innovation and technology.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Choosing between the 2017 Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize practicality, affordability, and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander is the ideal choice. Its spacious interior, reliable performance, and comprehensive safety features make it a perfect family vehicle.
However, if you seek a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience, the Audi Q7 is the superior option. Its sophisticated design, premium interior, and powerful engine make it an exceptional choice for those who value style, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
The Final Word: Beyond the Comparison
Ultimately, the best SUV for you is the one that best aligns with your lifestyle and priorities. Both the 2017 Toyota Highlander and Audi Q7 are excellent vehicles that offer a unique blend of features and benefits. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and choose the SUV that will best meet your expectations.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV offers better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander generally offers better fuel economy than the Audi Q7.
Q: Which SUV is more spacious for passengers and cargo?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more passenger and cargo space than the Audi Q7.
Q: Which SUV is more luxurious and technologically advanced?
A: The Audi Q7 is generally considered more luxurious and technologically advanced than the Toyota Highlander.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Toyota Highlander is generally more affordable than the Audi Q7.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-road driving?
A: While both SUVs offer decent off-road capabilities, the Toyota Highlander is slightly better suited for light off-roading due to its higher ground clearance and more robust construction.
