When it comes to SUVs, Toyota has built a reputation for producing some of the most reliable, durable, and versatile vehicles on the market. Two of the most popular models in Toyota’s SUV lineup are the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota Highlander. While both offer great performance, comfort, and technology, they cater to different types of drivers. If you’re considering either of these vehicles, this in-depth comparison will help you decide which SUV suits your needs best.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary off-road SUV that has been in production for decades. Known for its ruggedness and durability, the Land Cruiser is a top choice for adventure seekers and those who need a vehicle capable of handling extreme conditions.
Engine: A powerful V6 or V8 engine, depending on the model year.
Performance: Exceptional off-road capabilities with full-time four-wheel drive (4WD).
Interior: Luxurious cabin with premium materials and advanced technology.
Towing Capacity: Can tow up to 8,100 lbs, making it great for hauling trailers, boats, or campers.
Safety: Advanced driver-assist features and Toyota’s reliable safety technology.
The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, is a mid-size crossover SUV designed for families and city dwellers. It offers a blend of comfort, practicality, and efficiency, making it one of Toyota’s best-selling SUVs.
Engine: A fuel-efficient V6 engine with hybrid options available.
Performance: All-wheel drive (AWD) available for better traction.
Interior: Spacious cabin with three rows of seating for up to eight passengers.
Cargo Space: Generous cargo capacity for road trips and family adventures.
Safety: Toyota Safety Sense suite with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
The Land Cruiser is built for off-road dominance. It comes standard with a powerful turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine (in newer models) or a 5.7-liter V8 engine (older models) that delivers 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The Land Cruiser’s advanced Multi-Terrain Select system and Crawl Control make it an excellent choice for rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions.
The Highlander is designed for daily driving and comfort. It features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, it has an available 2.5-liter hybrid engine that offers outstanding fuel efficiency. While it lacks the Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess, its smooth ride and fuel economy (up to 36 MPG in hybrid models) make it a great commuter SUV.
The Land Cruiser offers high-end luxury with leather-trimmed seats, a premium sound system, and a well-designed dashboard. It provides heated and ventilated seats, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, and a large infotainment display. However, its boxy design sacrifices some interior space compared to the Highlander.
The Highlander boasts a spacious and family-friendly interior. It offers a modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. With three rows of seating, the Highlander is better suited for families needing extra passenger space.
Land Cruiser: With a towing capacity of up to 8,100 lbs, it is ideal for heavy-duty hauling and off-road adventures.
Highlander: Has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, suitable for smaller trailers and boats but not as powerful as the Land Cruiser.
Land Cruiser: Due to its large engine and 4WD system, it has lower fuel efficiency, averaging around 14-17 MPG.
Highlander: The standard V6 model averages 21-29 MPG, while the hybrid variant can achieve 36 MPG, making it the more fuel-efficient option.
Both SUVs come with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, including features like pre-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. The Land Cruiser has additional off-road technology, such as hill-start assist and a terrain management system, while the Highlander offers more convenience features like a larger touchscreen and a digital rearview mirror.
Toyota Land Cruiser: The starting price is around $55,000-$85,000, depending on the trim and model year. It holds its resale value well due to its durability.
Toyota Highlander: The starting price is more affordable at $36,000-$50,000, making it the better budget-friendly option.
Choose the Toyota Land Cruiser if:
You need a tough, off-road-ready SUV.
You frequently tow heavy loads.
You prioritize durability and long-term reliability.
You want a luxurious yet rugged vehicle.
Choose the Toyota Highlander if:
You need a practical and fuel-efficient family SUV.
You prioritize comfort and tech features.
You drive mostly in urban or suburban areas.
You want a budget-friendly option with hybrid capabilities.
Both the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota Highlander are excellent SUVs, but they serve different purposes. If you’re looking for a powerful off-road SUV with high towing capacity, the Land Cruiser is the way to go. However, if you need a fuel-efficient, spacious, and family-friendly vehicle, the Highlander is the better choice.
At Zamam Motors, we offer a range of new and used Toyota SUVs to fit your needs. Visit our showroom or contact us today for a test drive and let us help you find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle!