bmorton said:
Send a PM to summerwind if you want some first-hand opinions on RAV4 vs. new Highlander - he recently made the switch.
Yeap..
The 08 Highlander borrows some tech from the RAV4 and Camry.
The steering uses EPS like the RAV4.
The AC compressor is continuous variable like the RAV4
It's too soon to talk MPG but you will take a 2-3 MPG hit.
The AWD is full time on the Highlander vs on demand on the RAV4
Tow cap is 5,000lb with the tow package
The "you have to be kidding" moment is the Highlander does not come standard with roof rack cross rails and if you want them you need to order them separately. Currently they are backlogged and not available until mid December
The backup camera is great.
The glass in the lift-gate opens without opening the lift-gate.
The third row is usable
It is quieter than the RAV4
The Sport and Limited come with a power lift-gate option.
Bluetooth support
The second row is really for two people so it is a 2-2-3 configuration with the third row
The divider between the second row seats can be removed to create a narrow walk through to the third row but the passenger side seat folds and moves forward easily to gain access to the third row.
Stats..
________________Highlander------RAV4
Length------------------188.4----------181.1
Width---------------------75.2-----------71.5
Width with Mirrors-------86-------------81
Height---------------------69.3----------68.7
Wheel base-------------109.8---------104.7
Weight-------------------4321----------3512
turning circle-------------39ft-----------34.8ft
MPG--------------------17 / 23----------20/25
fuel cap------------------17.2-----------15.9
tires-----------------P245/55R19----P225/65R17
(Sport/Limited)
Guess it depends on your needs and budget. The RAV4 will cost less but the Highlander has more room and towing capacity
PS: Dealers in my area will negotiate price on a Base or Sport but it's MSRP baby on a Limited. Best I could do was $1000 off MSRP as a repeat customer discount. Even Costco discount wasn't valid on a Limited.