VS
At a Glance
Power
246hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque
233lb-ft @ 4300
310lb-ft @ 1700
Towing
3500lbs
5000lbs
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the Lexus Rx Hybrid and the Toyota Highlander is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Lexus Rx Hybrid delivers 246hp @ 6000 while the Toyota Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $53,525 for the Rx Hybrid and $50,025 for the Highlander. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
246hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
233lb-ft @ 4300
310lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.4 L/146cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
37mpg
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34mpg
28 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.2gal
17.9gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
192.5in
194.9in
Width (in)
75.6in
76in
Height (in)
67.3in
68.1in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4480lbs
4453lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
5000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
—
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota Highlander
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Highlander
Practicality
Highlander
Pros & Cons
Lexus Rx Hybrid
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Toyota Highlander
Lower starting price ($50,025)
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Rx Hybrid or Highlander?
The Rx Hybrid produces 246hp @ 6000 and 233lb-ft @ 4300 of torque while the Highlander delivers 265hp @ 6000 and 310lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Rx Hybrid and Highlander?
The Rx Hybrid starts from $53,525 and the Highlander from $50,025. The Highlander is cheaper by $3,500 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rx Hybrid or Highlander?
The Rx Hybrid has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Highlander can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rx Hybrid or the Highlander?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.