2021 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander: What's the Difference?

When in search of a dependable SUV or crossover, you need not look further than Toyota. The two top contenders are the 2021 Toyota RAV4 vs. Highlander. At Toyota of Louisville, we compare the two to help you in your car buying process. 

We want your Toyota experience to be the best, and therefore, we will highlight the differences between the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander. If you have any questions, you can always contact us.

2021 RAV4 vs. Highlander: Price

Should you choose the Toyota RAV4 or Highlander? The answer will depend on your personal preferences and budget. When comparing the pricing of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 vs. Highlander, the RAV4 is more affordable than the Highlander due to the expanded third-row seating and robust engine. You will love the compact of the RAV4 as well and the many trim packages it offers. Let’s take a look at the RAV4 lineup:

2021 Toyota RAV4:

• LE – $26,250 MSRP*
• LE Hybrid – $28,800 MSRP*
• XLE – $27,545 MSRP*
• XLE Hybrid – $30,095 MSRP*
• XLE Premium – $30,250 MSRP*
• XLE Premium Hybrid – $32,800 MSRP*
• Adventure – $33,355 MSRP*
• TRD Off-Road – $35,980 MSRP*
• XSE Hybrid – $34,750 MSRP*
• Limited – $34,780 MSRP*
• Limited Hybrid – $37,330 MSRP*

The Highlander is bigger, offers more space and it has a better performing engine. Here is the various trim levels of the 2021 Toyota Highlander:

2021 Toyota Highlander:

• L – $35,085 MSRP*
• LE – $37,285 MSRP*
• Hybrid LE – $38,735 MSRP*
• XLE – $40,085 MSRP*
• Hybrid XLE – $41,535 MSRP*
• XSE – $41,680 MSRP*
• Limited – $44,040 MSRP*
• Hybrid Limited – $45,490 MSRP*
• Platinum – $47,240 MSRP*
• Hybrid Platinum – $48,690 MSRP*

2021 RAV4 vs. Highlander: Engines & Fuel Efficiency

Whether you take your chosen Toyota on Lexington roads or near Elizabethtown, you will save on fuel economy due to the extra boost and reliable performance. 

However, the Highlander does offer a larger engine and is better on fuel economy than the RAV4. The two do have similar shifts and gear changing due to similar transmission pairings. Here are the differences between the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander when it comes to their engines and fuel economy:

2021 Toyota RAV4:

• 2.5L Dynamic Force DOHC 4-Cylinder Engine
• 8-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission
• 203 horsepower
• 184 lb-ft of torque
• 27 mpg City/35 mpg highway** fuel economy

2021 Toyota Highlander:

• 3.5L V6 DOHC Engine
• Direct Shift 8-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission
• 295 horsepower
• 263 lb-ft of torque
• 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway** fuel economy

Test Drive the Toyota RAV4 or Highlander at Toyota of Louisville! 

As you travel along your Toyota choosing journey, there are many questions you may ask, such as “Which is bigger, Toyota RAV4 or Highlander?” to “Which is cheaper, the Toyota RAV4 or Highlander?” We do hope that we answered those questions and more. 

Let our finance team help you buy or lease your next SUV or crossover. At Toyota of Louisville, we are happy to help our community of New Albany, and beyond!

Disclaimers:

*MSRP excludes the Delivery, Processing, and Handling Fee of $995 for Cars (Yaris HB, Yaris, Yaris iA, 86, Corolla, Corolla HB, Camry, Camry HV, Prius LB, Prius c, Prius Prime, Mirai, Avalon, Avalon HV, Supra), $1,175 for Small/Medium Trucks, SUVs and Van (C-HR, RAV4, RAV4 HV, Highlander, Highlander HV, 4Runner, Sienna, Tacoma), $1,365 for Large SUVs (Sequoia, Land Cruiser), and $1,595 for Large Truck (Tundra). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota’s charge for these services is called the “Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee” and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota’s overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX will be higher. The published prices do not apply to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Actual dealer price will vary.

**EPA Estimated Fuel Economy