2013 Toyota Highlander vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 7.6 out of 10

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

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Apr 3, 2013

The Toyota Highlander excels at moving people and cargo comfortably and safely--whether that means getting the family safely across town or across the country, The most significant down side is that it offers very little excitement for the driver.

For that, the Mazda CX-9 is a better pick, as it's nearly as comfortable and versatile, but it simply steers and handles better.

The Ford Flex is the winner for visual excitement; most will like its uber-boxy style and pleasing interior materials.

The Honda Pilot has more traditional SUV looks, even though it's also (mostly) a modern crossover; it's very safe and well-laid out for passengers, too.

The Chevrolet Traverse has been spruced up for 2013 and has the most useful third-row seat of the bunch, as well as a more refined feel inside.

2013 Toyota Highlander Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Chevrolet Traverse Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Ford Flex Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Honda Pilot Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Mazda CX-9 Get FREE Price Quote
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
7.6 The 2013 Toyota Highlander isn't exciting in any dimension, but like the Camry, it's competent and is a good value.	8.2 The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse hits a sweet spot for SUV replacers, with none of the flamboyance of a real SUV and more practical gas mileage and interior space.	9.2 With an unmistakable design, strong performance, and a roomy, comfortable interior, the 2013 Ford Flex proves that three-row crossovers don't have to be boring.	7.6 The 2013 Honda Pilot looks tough and truck-like from the outside, yet inside it's one of the better family haulers.	8 The 2013 Mazda CX-9 gets a sharper, even sportier look, as well as new active-safety features, and should remain one of the most exciting and engaging vehicles with three rows of seating.
MSRP From
$29,020	$30,510	$30,900	$29,520	$29,785
Gas Mileage
17 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy	16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy	16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy	17 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy	16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I4	Gas V6	Gas V6	Gas V6	Gas V6
EPA Class
Sport Utility Vehicle	2WD Sport Utility Vehicle	2WD Sport Utility Vehicle	2WD Sport Utility Vehicle	2WD Sport Utility Vehicle
Style Name
FWD 4dr I4 (Natl)	FWD 4dr LS	4dr SE FWD	2WD 4dr LX	FWD 4dr Sport
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
7	8	7	8	7
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle	Sport Utility	Wagon	Sport Utility	Sport Utility Vehicle
Transmission
Automatic w/Manual Shift	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic w/Manual Shift