
The differences between Highlander and Prado are as follows: Price: The official price of the top-end Prado is higher than that of the top-end Highlander. Overall body: The body of the top-end Prado is longer than that of the top-end Highlander, but the wheelbase of the top-end Prado is the same as that of the top-end Highlander. Power: In terms of power output, the top-end Prado is more powerful than the top-end Highlander. The Prado is equipped with a 3.5L naturally aspirated engine with a maximum horsepower of 280Ps, maximum power of 206kW, and maximum torque of 365Nm. The Highlander is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine with a maximum horsepower of 220Ps, maximum power of 162kW, and maximum torque of 350Nm.

I've been driving for twenty years and am quite familiar with the Prado and Highlander. The Prado, which we used to call the 'Badao,' is specifically designed for off-roading, with a robust body and a powerful four-wheel-drive system that can handle rugged mountain roads and muddy conditions without fear. I used it for self-driving trips in Xinjiang before—its high ground clearance ensures excellent passability. As for the Highlander, it leans more toward urban use, offering a stable and comfortable ride, with spacious seats ideal for family trips, lower wind noise, and better fuel efficiency. Price-wise, the Prado is more expensive due to its higher-end positioning, while the Highlander has a more affordable entry-level price. In terms of maintenance, Prado parts are durable but costly, whereas the Highlander is cheaper and more convenient to service. Overall, if you're looking for off-road adventures, go for the Prado; if it's purely for city family use, choose the Highlander—don't confuse their personalities.

As a father of two, I chose the Highlander for its practicality and spaciousness. The flexible folding third-row seats make it easy to accommodate strollers or luggage. It drives much smoother than the Prado, with lower fuel consumption and less noise for city commuting. Although the Prado is known for its off-road prowess with a sturdy body that can handle rough terrain, it's too much of a waste for daily use—the seats are hard and the ride is bumpy and uncomfortable. Price-wise, the Highlander is significantly cheaper, and maintenance is simple; I often change the oil myself to save money. In terms of safety, the Highlander's automatic braking feature is very useful, while the Prado is more basic. For long trips, the Highlander is more comfortable, and for occasional off-roading, renting a vehicle is sufficient.

I've been into car modifications since high school. The Prado is an off-road beast, with its powerful four-wheel drive lock and suspension system, making rock crawling or wading through water a breeze. The engine is strong and the sound is loud. The Highlander offers a smooth ride on highways but is weak off-road, stable at high speeds but with poor off-road capability. Driving the Prado gives a sense of adventure and endless fun, while the Highlander is more family-oriented with bland handling. Both vehicles are similar in size but differ in style—the Prado is more rugged, while the Highlander is stylish. The Prado has higher fuel consumption and more expensive tire replacements. If choosing, pick the Prado for adventure and the Highlander for daily commuting.

From a technical perspective, the Prado boasts a robust and durable mechanical design, with reliable four-wheel drive capable of handling extreme environments, though it lacks some modern tech features. The Highlander integrates newer functionalities like a hybrid system for better fuel efficiency and more advanced safety assists, making it more suitable for urban use. In terms of interior, the Highlander is more stylish with large infotainment screens, while the Prado focuses on simplicity and practicality. Driving experience-wise, the Prado excels in off-road performance but feels bumpy on highways, whereas the Highlander is the opposite. Price-wise, the Highlander is more affordable, while the Prado carries a premium. Maintenance costs are higher for the Prado due to expensive parts, while the Highlander generally has lower costs. For value-conscious buyers, the Highlander is the better choice; for those prioritizing traditional off-road capability, the Prado is the go-to option.


