Model Year | 2012 | 2009 | |
Model | Toyota Highlander | Lexus ES | |
Engine | 3.5L V6 DOHC-4v 270 hp@6200 248 lb-ft@4700 |
3.5L V6 DOHC-4v 272 hp@6200 254 lb-ft@4700 |
|
Transmission | 5-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | |
Body | 4dr SUV | 4dr Sedan | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 109.8 in | 109.3 in | 0.5 in |
Length | 188.4 in | 191.1 in | -2.7 in |
Width | 75.2 in | 71.1 in | 4.1 in |
Height | 68.1 in | 57.1 in | 11 in |
Curb Weight | 4045 lb. | 3580 lb. | 465 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 19.2 gal. | 18.5 gal. | 0.7 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 40.6 in | 37.4 in | 3.2 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 59.7 in | 57.3 in | 2.4 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 56.7 in | 55.9 in | 0.8 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 43.2 in | 42.2 in | 1 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 40.1 in | 36.8 in | 3.3 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 59.5 in | 56.3 in | 3.2 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 56.5 in | 52.8 in | 3.7 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 38.3 in | 35.9 in | 2.4 in |
Headroom, Row 3 | 36.3 in | 0.0 in | 36.3 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 3 | 55.0 in | 0.0 in | 55 in |
Hip Room, Row 3 | 42.3 in | 0.0 in | 42.3 in |
Legroom, Row 3 | 29.2 in | 0.0 in | 29.2 in |
Total Legroom | 110.7 in (over 3 rows) | 78.1 in (over 2 rows) | 32.6 in |
Cargo Volume, Minimum | 10.3 ft3 | 14.7 ft3 | -4.4 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Behind R2 | 42.3 ft3 | 14.7 | 27.6 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Maximum | 95.4 ft3 | 14.7 ft3 | 80.7 ft3 |
2012 Toyota Highlander Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2013 | 4dr SUV 270-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Perfect for two car seats. Really neat trick - the middle seat for the 2nd row rolls up into the center console. I did not remove it nor attempt to sit in it but that does make the 3rd row more likely to be used for those with car seats. I did not attempt to sit in the 3rd row (looked at it before folding into the floor for cargo space for the entire trip) so cannot opine on it. Use at your own risk. see full Toyota Highlander review |
2012 | 4dr SUV 270-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
I am 6 foot tall, and there is plenty of head and leg room in the driving position. Easy access as well. see full Toyota Highlander review |
2012 Toyota Highlander Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2012 | 4dr SUV 270-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
3rd row seats are useless to me. Too little room for adults. Should have been an option for families with small children. With 3rd row seating, you lose storage space. see full Toyota Highlander review |
2011 | 4dr SUV 245-horsepower 3.5L V6 Hybrid CVT AWD |
Third row minimal legroom see full Toyota Highlander review |
2009 Lexus ES Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2008 | 4dr Sedan 272-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Similar to the front seats, super comfortable and soft. A lot of leg room with an average-sized driver + passenger up front. Rear moonroof gives off the feel of a huge ceiling. see full Lexus ES review |
2009 Lexus ES Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2010 | 4dr Sedan 272-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Not very supportive. Felt like a hollowed out barrel. Only support was on the outside edges. see full Lexus ES review |
2008 | 4dr Sedan 272-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
the seams in a seat should run front to rear vs. left to right this would make the seat more comfortable. the Toyota Camry leather seats are definitely more comparable... I think Lexis wanted a sportier looking seat but sacrificed comfort in doing see full Lexus ES review |
2008 | 4dr Sedan 272-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
There is simply not enough legroom and three passengers will probably feel very cramped in the back as well. see full Lexus ES review |