Looking for a comprehensive comparison of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX? This article covers everything from exterior design and to , safety features, and pricing to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design Comparison
When it comes to the exterior design of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX, there are some notable differences that set these two models apart. As you embark on a journey to find the perfect SUV, it’s essential to consider the exterior features that matter most to you.
Front Grille and Bumper Differences
One of the first things you’ll notice when comparing the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX is the distinct front grille and bumper design. The Grand Highlander boasts a more aggressive and angular grille, with a prominent chrome finish that adds a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the Lexus TX features a more subtle and refined grille, with a sleek, mesh-like design that exudes luxury. The bumper design also varies, with the Grand Highlander sporting a more pronounced and angular look, while the Lexus TX opts for a smoother, more aerodynamic approach.
Wheel Options and Size Variations
The wheel options and size variations are another key area where the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX differ. The Grand Highlander offers a range of wheel options, including 18-inch, 20-inch, and 21-inch alloys, each with its own unique design and finish. The Lexus TX, on the other hand, features a more streamlined wheel selection, with 18-inch, 20-inch, and 22-inch options available. However, the Lexus TX makes up for this with its sleek, turbine-inspired wheel design, which adds to the vehicle’s overall luxury aesthetic. In terms of size variations, both models offer a range of options to suit different driving styles and preferences, from compact and agile to larger and more commanding.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to and comfort, both the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX are designed to provide a premium experience for drivers and passengers alike. But how do they stack up against each other?
Seating Capacity and Legroom
One of the most critical aspects of interior comfort is seating capacity and legroom. Can you imagine being stuck on a long road trip with cramped legs and nowhere to stretch? Not fun. Luckily, both the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX offer ample space for passengers to relax and unwind.
The Grand Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the trim level and configuration. The Lexus TX, on the other hand, offers seating for up to seven passengers. But what about legroom? The Grand Highlander offers 44.4 inches of legroom in the front seats, 39.6 inches in the second row, and 29.5 inches in the third row. The Lexus TX offers 43.2 inches of legroom in the front seats, 39.4 inches in the second row, and 28.3 inches in the third row. As you can see, both vehicles offer plenty of legroom, but the Grand Highlander takes the cake in this department.
Cargo Capacity and Storage Options
Now that we’ve covered seating capacity and legroom, let’s talk about cargo capacity and storage options. Whether you’re hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment, you need a vehicle that can accommodate your gear. So, which vehicle comes out on top?
The Grand Highlander offers 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.3 cubic feet behind the first row. The Lexus TX offers 12.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 36.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 83.2 cubic feet behind the first row. As you can see, both vehicles offer plenty of cargo space, but the Grand Highlander has a slight edge in this department. But what about storage options? Both vehicles offer plenty of storage bins, cupholders, and shelves to keep your gear organized and within reach. However, the Lexus TX takes it to the next level with its innovative storage solutions, such as its sliding second-row seats and underfloor storage compartments.
Performance and Powertrain
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the right combination of power and precision can make all the difference. The Grand Highlander and Lexus TX are both designed to provide a smooth, responsive ride, but how do they stack up in terms of engine options and transmission capabilities?
Engine Options and Horsepower
The Grand Highlander offers a range of engine options to suit different driving styles and needs. The base model comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. However, for those who crave a little extra oomph, there’s an available 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, churning out 310 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Lexus TX takes a different approach, offering a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
But what does this mean in real-world terms? Imagine merging onto a bustling highway or tackling a steep incline – with the Grand Highlander’s turbocharged engine, you’ll feel a noticeable surge of power and acceleration. On the other hand, the Lexus TX’s V6 engine provides a more refined, balanced driving experience, perfect for cruising through the city or taking long road trips.
Transmission and Towing Capacity
Of course, engine power is only half the equation – transmission capabilities play a critical role in harnessing that power and putting it to good use. The Grand Highlander features an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth, seamless shifting and helps optimize fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the Lexus TX boasts a more advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide even more precise control and responsiveness.
But what about towing? If you plan on hauling trailers, boats, or RVs, you’ll want to know that both vehicles are up to the task. The Grand Highlander offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, while the Lexus TX can handle a respectable 4,000 pounds. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a weekend warrior, these SUVs have got you covered.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for both the Toyota Grand Highlander and the Lexus TX. When it comes to protecting you and your loved ones on the road, these vehicles leave no stone unturned. But how do they compare in terms of airbag systems, crash test scores, and advanced ?
Airbag Systems and Crash Test Scores
Both the Grand Highlander and the Lexus TX boast an impressive array of airbags to cushion the impact of a collision. You’ll find a total of eight airbags in the Grand Highlander, including dual front, front side, rear side, and curtain airbags. The Lexus TX takes it up a notch with ten airbags, adding knee airbags to the mix. But what about crash test scores? The Grand Highlander earns a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with a perfect 5-star rating in the frontal and side crash tests. The Lexus TX hasn’t been rated by the NHTSA, but it does receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Advanced Safety Features and Technology
So, what about the advanced that can help prevent accidents from happening in the first place? The Grand Highlander comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Lexus TX, on the other hand, features the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which adds a few extra perks like a 360-degree camera system and a lane change assist feature. Both vehicles also offer blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems to keep you aware of your surroundings. But what really sets them apart is their ability to stay one step ahead of potential hazards – the Grand Highlander’s adaptive cruise control can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop in heavy traffic, while the Lexus TX’s system can adjust speed to adapt to changing road conditions.
Infotainment and Technology
The modern car is no longer just about getting from point A to point B, but about the experience along the way. Two of the most important aspects of that experience are the infotainment system and technology features. In this section, we’ll dive into the details of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX, exploring how they compare in terms of display screen size and features, as well as audio system and connectivity options.
Display Screen Size and Features
Imagine being on a road trip, and your navigation system is stuck on a small, pixelated screen. It’s frustrating, right? That’s why both the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX prioritize display screen size and features. The Grand Highlander boasts an available 12.3-inch touchscreen display, making it easy to navigate through menus and access essential features. Meanwhile, the Lexus TX offers an available 14-inch touchscreen display, taking it to the next level with crisp graphics and intuitive controls.
But it’s not just about screen size. Both vehicles offer advanced features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The Grand Highlander takes it a step further with an available 10-inch head-up display, projecting essential information like speed and navigation onto the windshield. This feature is especially useful on long drives, reducing the need to glance down at the dashboard.
Audio System and Connectivity Options
What’s a road trip without the perfect playlist? The Grand Highlander and Lexus TX understand the importance of a premium audio experience, offering advanced systems that will make you feel like you’re riding in a concert hall. The Grand Highlander’s available JBL Premium Audio system features 11 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, ensuring an immersive listening experience. The Lexus TX takes it up a notch with its available Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system, boasting 21 speakers and 1,800 watts of power.
When it comes to connectivity options, both vehicles offer a range of features to keep you connected on the go. The Grand Highlander features five USB ports, including two USB-A and two USB-C ports, as well as wireless charging capabilities. The Lexus TX offers four USB ports, including two USB-A and two USB-C ports, along with a wireless charging tray. Both vehicles also offer 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, ensuring you stay connected even in areas with limited coverage.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
Fuel economy and maintenance are crucial considerations when choosing a vehicle. After all, who doesn’t want to save money on gas and minimize trips to the mechanic? In this section, we’ll delve into the fuel economy estimates and fuel types available for the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX, as well as the estimated maintenance costs and schedules for each vehicle.
MPG Estimates and Fuel Types
When it comes to fuel economy, the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX offer competitive estimates. The Grand Highlander’s front-wheel drive (FWD) model boasts an estimated 24 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, with 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel drive (AWD) model comes in at an estimated 23 mpg combined, with 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Lexus TX, on the other hand, offers an estimated 23 mpg combined for its FWD model, with 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, and an estimated 22 mpg combined for its AWD model, with 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Both vehicles offer a range of fuel types, including regular gasoline and premium gasoline for those who want a little extra oomph. However, it’s worth noting that the Grand Highlander’s FWD model can also run on E85 fuel, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
Maintenance Costs and Schedule
When it comes to maintenance, both vehicles offer relatively similar schedules and costs. The Grand Highlander recommends maintenance every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, with costs ranging from $200 to $500 per visit, depending on the services required. The Lexus TX recommends maintenance every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, with costs ranging from $250 to $600 per visit.
However, it’s worth noting that the Lexus TX offers a more comprehensive maintenance plan, with services including oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements. The Grand Highlander’s maintenance plan is more bare-bones, with fewer included services. This may be a consideration for those who want a more hands-off approach to vehicle maintenance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more fuel-efficient vehicle with a range of fuel type options, the Grand Highlander may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a more comprehensive maintenance plan and are willing to pay a bit more upfront, the Lexus TX may be the way to go.
Pricing and Trim Levels
When it comes to making a purchase decision, one of the most critical factors is the price tag. In this section, we’ll delve into the pricing and trim levels of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX, two SUVs that offer a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Grand Highlander Trim Options and Features
The Grand Highlander is available in four trim levels: L, LE, XLE, and Limited. The entry-level L trim starts at around $35,000, offering a solid set of standard features, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and LED headlights. As you move up the trim levels, you’ll find additional features such as a power moonroof, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The top-of-the-line Limited trim starts at around $45,000, boasting luxury features like a panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Lexus TX Trim Options and Features
The Lexus TX, on the other hand, is available in five trim levels: Base, Premium, Luxury, F Sport, and Ultra Luxury. The Base trim starts at around $40,000, offering a long list of standard features, including a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and Lexus’ Safety System+ 2.0. As you move up the trim levels, you’ll find increasingly premium features such as a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, 21-inch alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera system. The top-of-the-line Ultra Luxury trim starts at around $60,000, featuring opulent touches like semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats, a heads-up display, and a panoramic moonroof.