In the event that you're looking for a bit more luxury in your family hauler, you've probably considered what is the lexus version of the highlander and whether the upgrade is in fact worth the additional investment. It's the smart question to ask because Toyota and Lexus possess a long history of sharing "bones" between their vehicles. Fundamentally, if Toyota develops a hit, Lexus usually takes that base, wraps it within better leather, adds more soundproofing, plus gives it a sharper look.
For the longest time, the answer to this question was the bit complicated, but these days, issues are much better. Depending on exactly what you're searching for—whether it's simply the brand name or the real three-row seating capacity—the answer is possibly the Lexus RX or the brand-new Lexus TX .
The Traditional Answer: The Lexus RX
For over two decades, in case you wanted the fancy version of a Highlander, you bought a Lexus RX. They shared the same fundamental platform for a long time. In case you looked below the hood of an older Highlander and an old RX 350, you'd see a lot of the exact same parts. However, there was always one main catch: the Highlander was a devoted three-row SUV, while the RX had been primarily a two-row cruiser.
Lexus tried to bridge this gap a few years ago with the RX 350L. They basically expanded the rear end of the RX to squeeze in a third line, but to be completely honest, it wasn't great. In case you were a kid, it was great, but for adults, it was a bit of a nightmare back generally there. So, while the RX was technically the "Lexus Highlander" for a long time, it didn't quite match the Highlander's utility.
Today, the RX has transferred onto its route. It's still the luxury sibling within spirit, however it provides leaned back in getting a five-passenger automobile that focuses upon comfort and technology instead of trying in order to cram in additional seats.
The Modern Answer: The Lexus TX
If you're asking what is the lexus version of the highlander in the framework of today's market, the real solution is the Lexus TX .
Specifically, the Lexus TX is the luxury twin of the Toyota Grand Highlander . Toyota noticed that the standard Highlander was the bit tight in the third line, so they released the "Grand" version. Lexus followed suit by launching the TX, which is built on the exact same assembly line in Indiana.
This is the vehicle people possess been awaiting. This finally offers you that massive interior area, a third line that actual grownups can sit within, and enough shipment room for a grocery run actually when the chairs are up. In case you love the way the Highlander drives but you want the "L" badge on the grille along with a log cabin that seems like a five-star hotel, the TX is your ride.
What Do You Obtain for the More Money?
A person might be thinking, "If they're built on the same frame, why shouldn't I just save ten grand and obtain the Toyota? " That's a good point, but the differences are more than just skin deep.
A Quieter Log cabin
One of the first things notice when you jump from the Highlander into a Lexus TX or RX is the silence. Lexus spends the fortune on additional sound deadening, thicker glass, and much better seals around the doors. While the Highlander is by no means a loud vehicle, the Lexus version feels like you're sitting in the library. It's developed to isolate a person from the damage of traffic.
Better Materials
Don't get me personally wrong, Toyota interiors are built in order to last forever, however they can feel a little "plastic-y" in certain spots. Lexus replaces those hard materials with soft-touch components, genuine wood trim, and high-quality NuLuxe or semi-aniline leather. Even the carpets feel a bit thicker. It's individuals small touchpoints that make it experience like reduced encounter every time you get behind the steering wheel.
The Store Experience
This is something people often overlook. Whenever you buy the Lexus version, you're also paying for the service. Lexus dealers are famous for their lounge areas, loaner cars, plus generally higher level of customer service. In the event that you're the type of person that hates sitting in a crowded waiting room while your own oil gets changed, the Lexus tax starts to appear a lot even more attractive.
Performance and Engine Options
When comparing these types of two, you'll find that the powerplants are pretty similar, yet Lexus usually gets the "tuned up" versions.
The standard Highlander now uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and so does the base Lexus TEXAS 350. However, Lexus offers the TX 500h F Sport Functionality , which is a hybrid setup that's way punchier than anything you can get within the standard Highlander lineup.
If you're searching for a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), Lexus has you covered there as well with the TX 550h+. This gives you the ability to drive on pure electricity with regard to short commutes, something that isn't really a highlight of the standard Highlander variety. It's this range of high-end functionality that separates the luxury version from the mass-market 1.
Is the Lexus Version Right for You?
Choosing between the two really comes down to how you make use of your car. In case your SUV is going to be a "kid-mobile" packed with crushed Cheerios, muddy cleats, and wet dogs, you might actually prefer the Toyota. The Highlander is designed to be beat up and wiped lower. It's the supreme tool for any occupied family.
Upon the other hand, if your kids are a small older, or if you do the lot of driving for work and want a room that helps you de-stress, the Lexus version is tough to beat. This takes all the reliability and "bulletproof" nature of the Highlander and provides a layer of sophistication that can make daily driving significantly more enjoyable.
The Resale Worth Factor
A single cool thing regarding both of these vehicles is that will they hold their own value like insane. Toyota and Lexus consistently top the charts for resell value. Because individuals know that a Highlander or a TX will certainly easily go two hundred, 000 miles with basic maintenance, they are always in high demand upon the used marketplace.
While you pay much more in advance for the Lexus, you'll likely obtain a bigger chunk of that back when it's time in order to trade it within. It's one of the few high-class purchases that actually makes some feeling from an economic perspective.
Gift wrapping It Up
So, what is the lexus version of the highlander ? It's the Lexus RX in case you want the mid-sized, ultra-comfortable five-seater, and it's the Lexus TX if you need the full three-row experience along with plenty of freight space.
Both vehicles are fantastic, and you also really can't get it wrong along with either. It just depends on whether you want the rugged, dependable "Swiss Army Knife" that is the Toyota, or the processed, whisper-quiet "private jet on wheels" that is the Lexus. If you have the budget for it, the Lexus version offers a level of polish that's difficult to walk away through once you've taken the test drive.