What To Know
- The Highlander is a mid-size SUV, while the Yukon is a full-size SUV, making it a clear winner for those seeking maximum space.
- It also boasts a wide range of available features, including heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
- Its smaller size and maneuverability make it a good choice for city driving, while its spacious interior and family-friendly features make it perfect for everyday use.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two popular contenders like the Toyota Highlander and the GMC Yukon. Both offer spacious interiors, capable performance, and a range of features, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will help you determine which SUV best suits your needs and preferences.
Size and Space: A Tale of Two SUVs
The Toyota Highlander and GMC Yukon are both three-row SUVs, but they differ significantly in size and capacity. The Highlander is a mid-size SUV, while the Yukon is a full-size SUV, making it a clear winner for those seeking maximum space.
The Yukon boasts a significantly larger cargo area, offering over 144 cubic feet of space with the seats folded down. This makes it ideal for hauling bulky items, camping gear, or even transporting large families. The Highlander, while still spacious, offers a more modest 84 cubic feet of cargo space. However, its compact size makes it more maneuverable in tight spaces and easier to park in crowded city streets.
Powertrains: Efficiency vs. Power
The Toyota Highlander offers a range of powertrain options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid model. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers decent performance, while the optional 3.5-liter V6 provides more power for towing. The Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, achieving impressive fuel economy figures.
The GMC Yukon, on the other hand, prioritizes power and towing capability. It comes standard with a 5.3-liter V8 engine, producing a robust 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking even more power, a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque is available. The Yukon’s powerful engines are well-suited for towing heavy trailers, making it a popular choice for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Interior Comfort and Features: Luxury vs. Practicality
The Toyota Highlander prioritizes practicality and comfort in its interior. It offers a user-friendly layout with intuitive controls and a spacious second-row. The third row is best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom. The Highlander’s interior features high-quality materials, but its overall design leans towards functionality rather than luxury.
The GMC Yukon, on the other hand, embraces luxury and refinement. Its interior features premium materials, plush seating, and a sophisticated design. The Yukon offers ample legroom in all three rows, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys. It also boasts a wide range of available features, including heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
Technology and Safety: Connected and Secure
Both the Toyota Highlander and the GMC Yukon offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Both include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Highlander also offers a suite of driver-assist features, such as lane tracing assist and road sign assist.
In terms of technology, the GMC Yukon boasts a larger touchscreen infotainment system with a more intuitive interface. It also offers advanced features like a head-up display and a premium sound system. The Highlander’s infotainment system is user-friendly, but its design is less flashy.
Driving Dynamics: Smooth and Refined vs. Powerful and Capable
The Toyota Highlander offers a smooth and refined driving experience. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The Highlander’s handling is predictable and easy to manage, making it a good choice for daily commutes and family trips.
The GMC Yukon, with its powerful engines and robust frame, delivers a more powerful and capable driving experience. It handles confidently on the road and offers impressive towing capabilities. However, its larger size and heavier weight can make it feel less agile than the Highlander, especially in tight spaces.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the GMC Yukon ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Highlander is the ideal choice for families looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, and comfortable SUV. Its smaller size and maneuverability make it a good choice for city driving, while its spacious interior and family-friendly features make it perfect for everyday use.
The Yukon, on the other hand, is the better option for those who prioritize power, towing capability, and luxury. Its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and advanced technology make it a luxurious choice for long journeys and family vacations. Its powerful engines and robust frame make it ideal for towing heavy trailers and tackling off-road adventures.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Other Considerations
While size, power, and features are important factors, other considerations might influence your decision.
- Budget: The Toyota Highlander is generally more affordable than the GMC Yukon.
- Fuel Economy: The Highlander offers a hybrid option for improved fuel efficiency.
- Reliability: Toyota is renowned for its reliability, while GMC has a solid reputation as well.
- Resale Value: Both SUVs hold their value well, but the Highlander might have a slight edge in resale value due to its reputation for reliability.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which SUV is better for towing?
A: The GMC Yukon is the better choice for towing, thanks to its powerful engines and robust frame.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Highlander, especially the hybrid model, offers better fuel economy than the GMC Yukon.
Q: Which SUV is better for city driving?
A: The Toyota Highlander‘s smaller size and maneuverability make it a better choice for city driving.
Q: Which SUV has a more luxurious interior?
A: The GMC Yukon boasts a more luxurious interior with premium materials and a sophisticated design.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both SUVs have a solid reputation for reliability, but Toyota is generally known for its durability.
