VS
At a Glance
Power
265hp @ 6000
194hp @ 4700
Torque
310lb-ft @ 1700
221lb-ft @ 1400
Towing
5000lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/120cc
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Volvo Xc40 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Toyota Highlander delivers 265hp @ 6000 while the Volvo Xc40 produces 194hp @ 4700. Pricing starts at $47,640 for the Highlander and $43,900 for the Xc40. 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)
265hp @ 6000
194hp @ 4700
Torque (lb-ft)
310lb-ft @ 1700
221lb-ft @ 1400
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/120cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
—
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic w/OD
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21 (Est)mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
28 (Est)mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.9gal
14.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
197.4in
174.8in
Width (in)
76in
75.2in
Height (in)
68.1in
65.2in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
106.4in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4420lbs
3945lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
5000lbs
3500lbs
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
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
—
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Xc40
Practicality
Highlander
Pros & Cons
Toyota Highlander
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Volvo Xc40
Lower starting price ($43,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Highlander or Xc40?
The Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000 and 310lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the Xc40 delivers 194hp @ 4700 and 221lb-ft @ 1400 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Highlander and Xc40?
The Highlander starts from $47,640 and the Xc40 from $43,900. The Xc40 is cheaper by $3,740 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Highlander or Xc40?
The Highlander has a braked towing capacity of 5000lbs and the Xc40 can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Highlander or the Xc40?
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.