What are the differences between the 5-seater and 7-seater versions of the new Highlander?
3 Answers
The new Highlander has the following main differences between its 5-seater and 7-seater versions: 1. There is only one 5-seater model available, which is the two-wheel-drive Elite Edition, while all other configurations are 7-seater versions. Therefore, if you want to purchase a 5-seater model, there is only one configuration to choose from, and this is also the base model. 2. The 5-seater version is exempt from inspection for 6 years and does not require going to the inspection line, whereas the 7-seater version requires an inspection every two years. 3. The 7-seater version has an additional row of seats compared to the 5-seater, but the last row in the 7-seater can be folded down, making it similar to the 5-seater. 4. For some mandatory insurance fees, the 5-seater model costs less than the 7-seater model.
Last week I accompanied a friend to test drive the Highlander, and the differences between the 5-seater and 7-seater versions were quite noticeable. The most obvious distinction is the seating arrangement—the 7-seater has two additional foldable seats that can be stowed under the rear cargo floor when not in use. However, the third row is genuinely cramped; at 1.75 meters tall, my knees pressed against the front seats, making it suitable only for children or short emergency trips. If you frequently carry more than five passengers, the 7-seater’s luggage space is actually reduced—when the third row is up, the trunk only has room for two carry-on suitcases. Additionally, the top-trim 7-seater includes rear independent climate controls and a hidden 220V power outlet in the center console, which the 5-seater lacks. As for pricing, the 7-seater costs 12,000 yuan more for the same configuration—it depends on whether you truly need those extra two seats.
A veteran driver who has owned three Highlanders shares the differences. The 7-seater version is about 90kg heavier than the 5-seater, making the rear end feel noticeably heavier with more body roll during cornering. The chassis tuning remains the same, but the second-row seat rails have a reduced sliding range of 10cm to accommodate the third row, which can make legroom tighter for taller passengers. All models come standard with 18-inch tires, but the 7-seater version includes anti-theft lug nuts for the spare tire. It's worth noting that 7-seaters require annual inspections, and insurance costs a few hundred yuan more, resulting in higher long-term ownership costs. When the third row is in use, the rearview mirror visibility is reduced by one-third, requiring extra caution when changing lanes.
