What are the differences between the Toyota Highlander and the Prado?
4 Answers
The differences between the Toyota Highlander and the Prado are: 1. Different levels: The Toyota Highlander is classified as a mid-size SUV; the Prado is classified as a mid-to-large-size SUV. 2. Different maximum engine horsepower: The Toyota Highlander has a maximum engine horsepower of 220; the Prado has a maximum engine horsepower of 280. 3. Different body types: The Toyota Highlander is a 5-door, 5-seat SUV; the Prado is a 5-door, 7-seat SUV. Both the Toyota Highlander and the Prado are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, ABS anti-lock braking system, traction control, vehicle stability control, brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring, front seat belt reminder, and child seat anchors.
I've been driving the Highlander for several years, and it's really great for family use. It's spacious and comfortable to sit in, and with the third-row seats folded down, it can carry a lot of stuff. It's convenient for commuting, picking up the kids, or weekend road trips, and the fuel consumption isn't too high—my hybrid version only uses a little over 7 liters per 100 kilometers. As for the Prado, it has a more rugged appearance and a higher ground clearance, making it suitable for off-roading. But I test-drove it once, and the steering wheel was a bit heavy, not very flexible when turning in the city. The seats were also a bit hard and uncomfortable for long rides. It performs well on bumpy outdoor roads, but since my family mainly drives in the city, I don't think it's necessary. The two cars have different positioning: the Highlander leans more toward urban family use, while the Prado is positioned as a rugged off-road vehicle. So, I'd recommend the Highlander for everyday family use—it's practical and worry-free. If you frequently go off-road, then consider the Prado.
I've been into off-roading for quite some time, often driving in mountainous or desert areas. The Land Cruiser Prado's off-road performance is truly impressive, with its sturdy chassis and firm suspension, handling steep slopes or muddy roads with ease. The robust body structure design, paired with the full-time four-wheel-drive system, makes it exceptionally reliable. In contrast, the Highlander is more subdued, with light steering that's easy to maneuver in the city, but it struggles on rough terrain. Its softer suspension tends to wobble, and while it's quiet on long drives, it's not up to the task on extreme routes. The fundamental difference lies in the Prado's bias towards professional off-road use and adaptability to harsh environments, whereas the Highlander is only suitable for highways and light outings. It's great for daily commuting, but outdoor enthusiasts would definitely opt for the Prado. Its rugged style is more durable, though it does come with higher fuel consumption in urban driving, so a sufficient budget is necessary.
I've been car shopping lately and found the Highlander's design more modern, with sleek curves and a stylish interior. The large display is clear and supports smartphone connectivity. It drives smoothly and quietly with seamless acceleration. The seat materials are comfortable, ideal for long commutes, and it comes with a comprehensive safety assistance system. The Prado, on the other hand, has a more boxy, traditional tough-guy look. It's functional but lacks technological updates. The steering feedback is heavy, and while it excels off-road, it's less agile in city turns. The main difference is that one follows a trendy urban route while the other sticks to classic off-road capabilities. The Highlander's hybrid technology is fuel-efficient and cost-effective for daily use, whereas the Prado is better suited for outdoor enthusiasts but feels cumbersome in the city.
