The 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox ranked #11 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Chevrolet Equinox has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good gas mileage Solid handling capability User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Underwhelming base engine Low-rent interior Less passenger and cargo space than many competitors
The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Diesel engine is no longer available.Newly standard safety equipment.Slightly revised packages and options.
Pros Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is quite powerful Smooth ride over most road surfaces Stable and precise handling
Cons Smaller cargo area compared to most competitors Wallet-friendly base L trim is special-order only The base engine doesn't feel very lively Interior materials quality is disappointing considering the price
Driver-assistance features find their way to the standard features list on the 2020 Equinox: automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlamps—all previously optional—are now on all models. Further to that point, adaptive cruise control is now included in the optional Driver Confidence II package. Elsewhere in the lineup, a Midnight Edition package is new on LT models which blacks out just about everything that can be blacked out, including the Chevy bow-tie logos. The 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine is no longer available.
Pros Spry driving demeanor, relatively efficient for an SUV, plenty of space for people and cargo.
Cons Base engine lacks power, infotainment display is tilted too far back, high price among compact SUVs.
