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The 2023 Lexus RX 350 is a solid choice for people looking for a luxury SUV. However, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is perhaps a better choice for those who don’t particularly care about which automaker their awesome SUV comes from. The new Toyota SUV isn’t only cheaper, but it compares to the 2023 Lexus RX 350 in a few significant ways. In particular, the vehicles offer similar performance.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander offers similar performance as the 2023 Lexus RX 350

The 2023 Toyota Highlander has much going on under its hood. The new Toyota SUV has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 265 hp. It can be either front-wheel or all-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s able to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds, according to Car and Driver. Regarding performance, the Toyota Highlander XLE is often a top choice.

Similarly, the Lexus RX 350 has a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 275 hp. It also uses a similar transmission to the 2023 Highlander and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a reported 7.5 seconds. However, the 2023 Lexus RX offers more engine options than the Toyota Highlander. Luckily, both SUVs offer a hybrid powertrain with similar performance specifications. 

The 2023 Toyota Highlander’s interior is comparable

2023 Toyota Highlander interior. This new Toyota SUV is an alternative to the Lexus RX 350
2023 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

Of course, most Lexus vehicles are going to have more luxurious interiors than a Toyota SUV. However, the 2023 Lexus RX is decently similar to the 2023 Highlander due to the interiors. Not only does it offer generous space for up to eight passengers, but it also offers a good amount of cargo space. In addition, the higher trims of the 2023 Toyota Highlander offer many upscale features. The interior of the new model serves as an improvement over the 2022 Toyota Highlander. 

The new Toyota SUV interior also includes impressive technology. It comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, but buyers can upgrade it to a 12.3-inch in addition to a 12.3-inch gauge cluster. Of course, the Toyota Highlander XLE is a popular trim of the SUV, and it comes with even more options. The Lexus RX comes with a slightly larger screen. Beyond this, the technology in the Lexus SUV isn’t that special. 

The price difference between the Lexus and Toyota SUVs

Silver 2023 Lexus RX 230 up close headlights. The Highlander is a new Toyota SUV that's a good alternative.
2023 Lexus RX 350 | Lexus

The 2023 Lexus RX is an impressive luxury SUV, but the 2023 Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for those who don’t want the high price tag. The RX 350 starts at $47,400 but can quickly balloon thanks to added features. The 2023 Highlander starts at $36,420, which is only a slight increase over the Toyota Highlander 2022. 

The 2023 Highlander is a well-trusted SUV that genuinely belongs in the same conversation as its slightly more luxurious automotive sibling. It may not have all the extras, but it’s a vehicle with the potential to make many owners in search of a large SUV very happy. 

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