What To Know
- Choosing the perfect SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular and capable options like the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7.
- The Q7 also offers a wide range of optional features, including a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system.
- Both the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7 offer an impressive array of safety features, prioritizing the well-being of their occupants.
Choosing the perfect SUV can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular and capable options like the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each SUV, helping you determine which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Engines
The Toyota Highlander boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not the most exhilarating engine, it delivers smooth acceleration and ample power for everyday driving. The Highlander also offers a hybrid option, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a more fuel-efficient experience.
The Audi Q7, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 generating 329 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The Q7’s engines are more powerful and responsive than the Highlander’s, delivering a more engaging driving experience. Both models offer an eight-speed automatic transmission, but the Q7’s quattro all-wheel drive system provides superior handling and stability in challenging conditions.
Interior Comfort and Features: Luxury vs. Functionality
The Toyota Highlander prioritizes practicality and comfort. Its spacious cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly layout. The Highlander’s interior is well-appointed, featuring high-quality materials and a plethora of standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of safety features.
The Audi Q7 takes interior luxury to a whole new level. Its cabin exudes sophistication, with premium leather upholstery, elegant wood accents, and a sleek, minimalist design. The Q7’s infotainment system is cutting-edge, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen for the main display and an 8.6-inch touchscreen for climate control and other functions. The Q7 also offers a wide range of optional features, including a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system.
Cargo Space and Versatility: Room for the Family and More
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7 excel in cargo space and versatility. The Highlander offers a generous 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Its spacious cabin and flexible seating arrangements make it ideal for families on the go.
The Audi Q7 boasts 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 69.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. While slightly less spacious than the Highlander, the Q7’s cargo area is still ample for most needs. Both SUVs offer a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Performance and Economy
The Toyota Highlander is known for its fuel efficiency. The standard gasoline engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The Highlander Hybrid boasts even better fuel economy, with an estimated 36 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined.
The Audi Q7’s fuel efficiency is slightly lower, with the 2.0-liter engine achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The 3.0-liter engine delivers slightly lower fuel economy, at 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.
Safety Features: Advanced Technology for Peace of Mind
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7 offer an impressive array of safety features, prioritizing the well-being of their occupants. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.
The Audi Q7 also boasts advanced safety features, including Audi Pre Sense City, which uses radar and cameras to detect potential collisions and initiate braking or steering assistance. The Q7’s optional Audi Pre Sense 360° system further enhances safety by adding features like lane assist, cross-traffic assist, and exit warning.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize practicality, affordability, and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. Its spacious cabin, versatile cargo space, and reliable performance make it a great option for families and those who need a dependable SUV.
If you value luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, the Audi Q7 is the clear winner. Its stylish interior, powerful engines, and advanced features offer a premium driving experience.
The Final Decision: Beyond the Specs
While both the Toyota Highlander and the Audi Q7 are exceptional SUVs, the final decision comes down to personal preferences. Consider your budget, lifestyle, and driving needs to determine which vehicle aligns best with your expectations. Test drive both models to get a feel for their handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. Ultimately, the best SUV is the one that fits your individual needs and brings you the most joy.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a reputation for reliability and longevity. Toyota vehicles consistently rank high in reliability surveys, while Audi vehicles can be more prone to maintenance issues.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Audi Q7 offers a more sophisticated all-wheel drive system and a higher ground clearance, making it better suited for light off-roading. The Toyota Highlander is primarily designed for on-road driving.
Q: Which SUV is better for towing?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the Audi Q7, making it a better choice for those who need to tow trailers or boats.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Toyota Highlander is generally more affordable than the Audi Q7, both in terms of purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs.
Q: Which SUV is better for a large family?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more passenger space and cargo capacity, making it a better choice for large families. The Audi Q7’s third row is more cramped and suitable for occasional use.
