What To Know
- The Highlander features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- Its starting price is significantly lower, making it a more accessible choice for families and individuals seeking a practical and reliable SUV.
- If you’re looking for a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, the Highlander is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two very different contenders like the Toyota Highlander and the BMW X7. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key factors that differentiate these two SUVs, helping you determine which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Approaches
The Toyota Highlander is a practical and reliable SUV that prioritizes fuel efficiency and a smooth, comfortable ride. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not the most exhilarating, the Highlander delivers adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising.
The BMW X7, on the other hand, is a performance-oriented SUV that embodies the brand’s renowned driving dynamics. It offers a range of powertrain options, including a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, as well as a powerful 4.4-liter V8 engine generating 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The X7’s handling is sharp and responsive, offering a more engaging driving experience than the Highlander.
Interior Comfort and Space: Luxury vs Practicality
Both the Highlander and the X7 prioritize passenger comfort and spaciousness, but their approaches differ. The Highlander offers a generous amount of space for seven passengers, with comfortable seating and ample legroom in all rows. Its interior is well-designed and functional, with durable materials and a user-friendly layout.
The X7 takes luxury to another level, featuring a lavish interior with premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and advanced amenities. It offers seating for up to seven passengers, although the third row is best suited for children due to limited legroom. The X7’s interior exudes an air of opulence and sophistication, making it a true luxury SUV.
Technology and Features: A Symphony of Modernity
Both SUVs come equipped with a plethora of advanced technology features, but their offerings differ in their focus and sophistication. The Highlander features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
The X7 takes technology to the next level with a massive 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with iDrive 7.0, and a head-up display. It also boasts an impressive array of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Fuel Efficiency: Practicality Takes the Lead
The Toyota Highlander stands out in terms of fuel economy, boasting an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. This makes it a more practical choice for daily driving and long road trips, especially considering the X7’s less impressive fuel efficiency.
The BMW X7, with its powerful engines and larger size, doesn’t quite match the Highlander’s fuel economy. Its EPA-estimated rating ranges from 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined for the V8 engine to 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined for the inline-six engine.
Price and Value: A Matter of Perspective
The Toyota Highlander is a more affordable option compared to the BMW X7. Its starting price is significantly lower, making it a more accessible choice for families and individuals seeking a practical and reliable SUV.
The BMW X7, on the other hand, comes with a premium price tag, reflecting its luxurious features and performance capabilities. While it’s a more expensive option, the X7 offers a level of refinement and exclusivity that many buyers find appealing.
Choosing the Right SUV: A Matter of Priorities
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and the BMW X7 boils down to your individual priorities and needs. If you’re looking for a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, the Highlander is an excellent choice.
If you prioritize luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the BMW X7 is the clear winner. Its opulent interior, powerful engines, and advanced features make it a true statement of luxury and driving pleasure.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just an SUV
Both the Toyota Highlander and the BMW X7 are exceptional SUVs in their own right, catering to different needs and preferences. The Highlander offers practicality, affordability, and a comfortable driving experience, while the X7 delivers luxury, performance, and a sense of exclusivity.
The key to choosing the right SUV lies in understanding your priorities and making an informed decision based on your individual needs and budget. Whether you’re seeking a reliable family vehicle or a luxurious statement of style and performance, both the Highlander and the X7 offer compelling options.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Toyota Highlander is better suited for light off-roading with its available all-wheel drive system and decent ground clearance. The BMW X7, while offering all-wheel drive, is primarily designed for on-road driving and is not as capable off-road.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Toyota is known for its reliability, and the Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability studies. BMWs, while generally reliable, can experience more maintenance costs over time.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
A: Both SUVs offer spacious interiors and ample cargo space, making them suitable for families. However, the Highlander’s lower price point and higher fuel efficiency may make it a more practical choice for families on a budget.
Q: Which SUV is better for luxury and comfort?
A: The BMW X7 is a clear winner in terms of luxury and comfort. Its opulent interior, advanced amenities, and smooth ride make it a truly indulgent experience.
Q: Which SUV is better for performance?
A: The BMW X7 offers superior performance with its powerful engine options and sharp handling. The Highlander, while not as sporty, provides a comfortable and capable driving experience.
