Looking for a reliable SUV for your family? Check out our in-depth comparison of the Toyota Grand Highlander and Sienna, covering seating capacity, engine performance, safety features, and more to help you make the best choice.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
When it comes to choosing a vehicle, seating capacity and comfort are often top priorities for families and road trippers alike. But how do the Grand Highlander and Sienna measure up in these crucial areas?
Number of Seats and Configurations
The Grand Highlander offers plenty of space for passengers, with a total seating capacity of eight people across three rows. The second row features captain’s chairs that can slide and recline, while the third row provides ample space for kids or smaller adults. Meanwhile, the Sienna offers a slightly different configuration, with seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, but with a bench seat in the second row instead of captain’s chairs. While both vehicles offer similar passenger capacity, the Grand Highlander’s captain’s chairs in the second row provide more flexibility and comfort for middle-row passengers.
Legroom and Headroom Comparison
When it comes to legroom and headroom, both vehicles provide ample space for passengers to stretch out and get comfortable. The Grand Highlander offers 44.4 inches of legroom in the second row and 35.6 inches in the third row, while the Sienna provides 39.1 inches in the second row and 30.2 inches in the third row. In terms of headroom, the Grand Highlander offers 40.1 inches in the second row and 37.8 inches in the third row, while the Sienna provides 39.7 inches in the second row and 38.3 inches in the third row. While both vehicles offer similar headroom measurements, the Grand Highlander’s slightly more generous legroom in the second and third rows gives it a slight edge in this department.
Premium Materials and Features
But it’s not just about the number of seats and space – it’s also about the quality of the materials and features that make up the interior. The Grand Highlander boasts premium materials and features like available heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic moonroof that lets in plenty of natural light. The Sienna, on the other hand, offers its own set of premium features, including available heated and ventilated front seats, a moonroof, and a premium Entune 3.0 infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. Both vehicles offer a range of premium materials and features, but the Grand Highlander’s slightly more upscale interior design gives it a slight edge in this department.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the Grand Highlander and Sienna are both designed to deliver a smooth and efficient ride. But how do they compare when it comes to engine performance and fuel economy? Let’s dive in and explore the details.
Horsepower and Torque Comparison
When it comes to raw power, the Grand Highlander and Sienna are closely matched. The Grand Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the Sienna’s 3.5-liter V6 engine churns out 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. That’s right, folks – these two minivans are practically neck and neck when it comes to horsepower and torque. So, what does this mean for you? Well, both vehicles have more than enough oomph to tackle steep hills, merge onto highways, and haul heavy loads with ease.
Fuel Efficiency in City and Highway
Of course, power is only half the story – fuel efficiency is just as important, especially for families who do a lot of driving. According to the EPA, the Grand Highlander gets an estimated 24 mpg combined (21 city, 29 highway), while the Sienna gets an estimated 27 mpg combined (23 city, 30 highway). That’s a notable difference, especially for city dwellers who do a lot of stop-and-go driving. However, it’s worth noting that both vehicles are still quite fuel-efficient, considering their size and power output.
Transmission Options and Performance
When it comes to transmission options, both the Grand Highlander and Sienna offer a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This means you can expect seamless acceleration and responsive shifting, whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating heavy traffic. Additionally, both vehicles offer a range of drive modes, including sport, eco, and normal, which allow you to customize your driving experience to suit your mood and terrain. So, whether you’re hauling kids to soccer practice or tackling a road trip adventure, these transmissions have got you covered.
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, both the Grand Highlander and Sienna are designed to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers. But how do they compare?
Airbag Systems and Crash Test Scores
The Grand Highlander and Sienna both boast advanced airbag systems, designed to cushion the impact of a collision and protect occupants from harm. The Grand Highlander features a total of seven airbags, including dual front, front side, rear side, and side curtain airbags. The Sienna, on the other hand, offers eight airbags, adding a driver’s knee airbag to the mix. But what do the crash test scores reveal? In NHTSA testing, the Grand Highlander earned a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, while the Sienna scored 4.5 stars out of 5. Meanwhile, in IIHS testing, both vehicles received Top Safety Pick+ designations, the highest rating awarded.
Advanced Safety Features Comparison
Beyond airbags and crash test scores, both vehicles offer a range of advanced safety features to help prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. The Grand Highlander features Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna, on the other hand, offers its own Toyota Safety Sense suite, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign recognition. But which vehicle offers more comprehensive coverage? The Grand Highlander’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite takes the edge, with additional features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
NHTSA and IIHS Ratings
So, what do the safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS reveal about the Grand Highlander and Sienna? As mentioned earlier, the Grand Highlander earned a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Sienna scored 4.5 stars out of 5. In IIHS testing, both vehicles received Top Safety Pick+ designations, the highest rating awarded. However, it’s worth noting that the Sienna’s rating was conditional, pending the availability of certain advanced safety features. The Grand Highlander, on the other hand, received its Top Safety Pick+ designation without condition.
Infotainment and Technology
When it comes to staying connected and entertained on the go, the Grand Highlander and Sienna are equipped with cutting-edge infotainment systems that will keep you and your passengers engaged. But which one takes the crown in terms of display screen size, smartphone integration, and premium audio systems?
Display Screen Size and Resolution
The Grand Highlander boasts an impressive available 12.3-inch touchscreen display, providing crystal-clear graphics and intuitive navigation. In contrast, the Sienna’s available display screen measures 9 inches, still a respectable size, but slightly smaller than its competitor. However, what the Sienna lacks in screen size, it makes up for in terms of resolution, offering a higher pixel density for sharper images and text. So, which is more important to you: a larger screen or a more detailed display?
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration
Both the Grand Highlander and Sienna offer seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, maps, and music on the go. But what sets these vehicles apart is the ease of use and connectivity options. The Grand Highlander features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, eliminating the need for pesky cords and cables. The Sienna, on the other hand, requires a wired connection for these features. If you’re tired of dealing with tangled cords, the Grand Highlander might be the better choice.
Premium Audio Systems and Speakers
For audiophiles, the Grand Highlander and Sienna offer premium audio systems that will transport you to a world of sound. The Grand Highlander’s available JBL Premium Audio System features 11 speakers, including a powerful subwoofer, and a 1200-watt amplifier. The Sienna’s available JBL Premium Audio System, on the other hand, boasts 10 speakers and a 1500-watt amplifier. Both systems deliver rich, immersive sound, but if you’re looking for a little extra oomph, the Sienna might be the way to go.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
When it comes to exterior design and dimensions, the Grand Highlander and Sienna are two distinct vehicles that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern design or a more traditional minivan aesthetic, both models have their unique strengths.
Length, Width, and Height Comparison
One of the most notable differences between the Grand Highlander and Sienna is their exterior dimensions. The Grand Highlander measures 194.9 inches in length, 76 inches in width, and 68.1 inches in height, making it slightly longer and wider than the Sienna. The Sienna, on the other hand, measures 203.9 inches in length, 78.1 inches in width, and 69.7 inches in height. These differences may seem minor, but they can significantly impact the driving experience and overall functionality of each vehicle.
Wheelbase and Ground Clearance
Another key difference between the Grand Highlander and Sienna is their wheelbase and ground clearance. The Grand Highlander boasts a 112.2-inch wheelbase and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it more suitable for off-road adventures and rough terrain. In contrast, the Sienna has a 118.1-inch wheelbase and 6.5 inches of ground clearance, making it better suited for city driving and smooth roads.
Exterior Color Options and Trim Levels
When it comes to exterior color options and trim levels, both the Grand Highlander and Sienna offer a range of choices to suit different tastes and preferences. The Grand Highlander is available in eight exterior colors, including a bold new “Cypress Green” option, while the Sienna offers seven exterior colors, including a sleek new “Wind Chill Pearl” option. Both models also offer various trim levels, including the entry-level LE, mid-level XLE, and top-of-the-line Limited, each with its own unique features and upgrades.
Towing Capacity and Cargo Space
When it comes to towing capacity and cargo space, both the Grand Highlander and Sienna are designed to meet the needs of families and adventurers alike. But how do they compare?
Maximum Towing Capacity Comparison
So, you’re planning a family road trip or a weekend getaway with your favorite toys in tow. The question is, which vehicle can handle the heavy lifting? The Grand Highlander boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, while the Sienna comes in at up to 3,500 pounds. That’s a significant difference, especially if you’re planning to tow a trailer or a boat. However, it’s essential to note that towing capacity also depends on the trim level, engine, and axle ratio, so be sure to check the specifications of your vehicle before hitting the open road.
Cargo Space and Storage Compartments
Now, let’s talk about cargo space. Whether you’re hauling sports equipment, luggage, or groceries, you want to make sure you’ve got enough room for everything. The Grand Highlander offers up to 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, while the Sienna provides up to 39.1 cubic feet. But wait, there’s more! Both vehicles offer plenty of storage compartments and clever features like underfloor storage bins and cup holders galore. The Grand Highlander even has a unique feature – a sliding second-row captain’s chair that allows for easy access to the third row or more cargo space.
Roof Rails and Cross Bars
Last but not least, let’s not forget about roof rails and cross bars. These features are a must-have for families who love to adventure or need to transport bulky items like bikes or kayaks. Both the Grand Highlander and Sienna offer roof rails and cross bars, but the Grand Highlander takes it a step further with an available power moonroof and a more comprehensive roof rack system. So, if you’re planning to take your adventures to new heights, the Grand Highlander might be the better choice.
Price and Trim Levels
The price of a vehicle is often the deciding factor for many car buyers. When it comes to the Grand Highlander and Sienna, it’s essential to understand the different trim levels and their corresponding prices to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive into the details and explore the various trim levels, their features, and costs.
Base Model Prices and Features
The base model of the Grand Highlander and Sienna are the most affordable options, offering a range of standard features that provide excellent value for money. The Grand Highlander’s base model, the L, starts at around $35,000, while the Sienna’s base model, the L, begins at approximately $32,000. Both models come with a decent set of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a range of safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Mid-Trim Level Options and Upgrades
The mid-trim level options for both vehicles offer a significant upgrade in features and materials. The Grand Highlander’s XLE trim level adds features like synthetic leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a more advanced infotainment system with a larger screen. The Sienna’s LE trim level also receives upgrades like a more premium audio system, a power liftgate, and a moonroof. These trim levels are priced around $38,000 for the Grand Highlander XLE and $35,000 for the Sienna LE. The question is, are these upgrades worth the additional cost?
Top-Trim Level Features and Cost
For those who want the best of the best, the top-trim level options are the way to go. The Grand Highlander’s Limited trim level is the most luxurious, featuring premium leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a range of advanced safety features like a 360-degree camera system. The Sienna’s Limited trim level also offers a high level of luxury, with features like a premium audio system, a heated steering wheel, and a range of advanced safety features. The prices for these top-trim level models are around $45,000 for the Grand Highlander Limited and $42,000 for the Sienna Limited. While they may come with a higher price tag, the added features and luxurious materials may be worth the investment for some buyers.