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 2023 Highlander isn’t only cheaper, but it compares to the 2023 RX 350 in a few significant ways. In particular, the vehicles offer similar performance.

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

The 2023 Highlander has much going on under its hood. The legendary Toyota SUV has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 265 horsepower. It can be either front 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 a horsepower of 275. 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 Lexus RX 2023 offers more engine options than the Toyota Highlander 2023. Luckily, both SUVs offer a hybrid powertrain with similar performance specifications. 

The Toyota Highlander interior is comparable

Of course, most Lexus vehicles are going to have more luxurious interiors than a Toyota SUV. However, the Lexus RX 2023 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 Toyota Highlander 2022. 

The Toyota Highlander 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 2023 comes with a slightly larger screen. Beyond this, the technology in the Lexus SUV isn’t that special. 

Price difference

The Lexus RX 2023 is an impressive luxury SUV, but the 2023 Highlander is an excellent choice for those who don’t want the high price tag. The RX 350 starts at $47,400, but it 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.