2019 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Toyota Highlander
Overview | |
MSRP$33,700 | MSRP$34,600 |
Listings143 | Listings722 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2019 Volvo XC40 Reviews SummaryIf any brand is experiencing a revival in terms of both form and function, it's Volvo. The Swedish automaker is experiencing a renaissance, delivering new cars that are not only breathtaking to look at inside and out, but that also provide fantastic technology, safety, and performance. Volvo was once the Safety Brand, but with the advent of advanced safety technology, many other brands have caught up. Volvo has found its niche in high fashion, backed by continually improving safety technology that rivals the best in the world. This recent trend started with the XC90 SUV and was followed by the V90 wagon. These are world-class vehicles, but they also fetch high prices. Enter the 2019 Volvo XC40. It scales down much of what makes those high-end models so great, offering it in a (comparatively) more affordable subcompact SUV package. The XC40 offers ingenious cargo solutions, incredibly advanced technology, and even a new way to go about car ownership. Is that enough to make it stand out compared to other subcompact SUVs? Read on to find out. | |
2020 Toyota Highlander Reviews SummaryMidsize three-row SUVs are all spacious and powerful, but only the Toyota Highlander reaches the premium threshold for passenger comfort. Redesigned for 2020, the Highlander's revised styling and technology are secondary to its silent operation, soft ride, and cosseting interior. The upper trims feel and drive just like a Lexus, without the upcharge. There is nothing exciting about a Highlander, and yet, there is no other SUV in the $35,000 to $50,000 range that feels so effortless and tranquil. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 187 hp I4 | Engine3.5L 295 hp V6 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity8 |
Horsepower187 hp @ 4700 rpm | Horsepower295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
MPG City23 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway28 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 187 hp I4 | Engine Name3.5L 295 hp V6 |
Torque221 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm | Torque263 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower187 hp @ 4700 rpm | Horsepower295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City23 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway28 |
Interior | |
Leather SeatsStandard | Leather Seats |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity8 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space20.7 cu ft | Cargo Space16.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight3564 lbs | Curb Weight4145 lbs |
Height65.3 in | Height68.1 in |
Length174.2 in | Length194.9 in |
Width80.1 in | Width76.0 in |
Wheelbase106.4 in | Wheelbase112.2 in |
Maximum Payload1195 lbs | Maximum Payload1685 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity5000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $33,700 | $34,600 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.8 out of 10Read full review | 7.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | If any brand is experiencing a revival in terms of both form and function, it's Volvo. The Swedish automaker is experiencing a renaissance, delivering new cars that are not only breathtaking to look at inside and out, but that also provide fantastic technology, safety, and performance. Volvo was once the Safety Brand, but with the advent of advanced safety technology, many other brands have caught up. Volvo has found its niche in high fashion, backed by continually improving safety technology that rivals the best in the world. This recent trend started with the XC90 SUV and was followed by the V90 wagon. These are world-class vehicles, but they also fetch high prices. Enter the 2019 Volvo XC40. It scales down much of what makes those high-end models so great, offering it in a (comparatively) more affordable subcompact SUV package. The XC40 offers ingenious cargo solutions, incredibly advanced technology, and even a new way to go about car ownership. Is that enough to make it stand out compared to other subcompact SUVs? Read on to find out. | Midsize three-row SUVs are all spacious and powerful, but only the Toyota Highlander reaches the premium threshold for passenger comfort. Redesigned for 2020, the Highlander's revised styling and technology are secondary to its silent operation, soft ride, and cosseting interior. The upper trims feel and drive just like a Lexus, without the upcharge. There is nothing exciting about a Highlander, and yet, there is no other SUV in the $35,000 to $50,000 range that feels so effortless and tranquil. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 187 hp I4 | 3.5L 295 hp V6 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 8 |
Horsepower | 187 hp @ 4700 rpm | 295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
MPG City | 23 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 28 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 187 hp I4 | 3.5L 295 hp V6 |
Torque | 221 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm | 263 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower | 187 hp @ 4700 rpm | 295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 23 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 28 |
Interior | ||
Leather Seats | Standard | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 8 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 20.7 cu ft | 16.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3564 lbs | 4145 lbs |
Height | 65.3 in | 68.1 in |
Length | 174.2 in | 194.9 in |
Width | 80.1 in | 76.0 in |
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 112.2 in |
Maximum Payload | 1195 lbs | 1685 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | 5000 lbs |
The 2019 Volvo XC40 is rated 9 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, while the 2020 Toyota Highlander is rated 7 out of 10.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 boasts standout styling, with an upright appearance that provides ample head- and legroom. It comes in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription, each offering unique design elements and features.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander features a more versatile design with trapezoidal themes and exaggerated creases. It offers a quality fit and finish, with a three-tone interior available on the Limited trim.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Volvo XC40 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander 6 out of 10.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It offers brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and responsive turn-in, with fuel-economy estimates of 23 mpg city, 31 highway, 26 combined.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. It delivers brisk acceleration and very good fuel economy for its size, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Volvo XC40 9 out of 10 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander 9 out of 10.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 makes incredible use of its space, offering plenty of front-seat head- and legroom. It features smart storage solutions, including a removable trash bin in the center console and clever cargo area features.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander seats eight and offers generous space and versatile second-row seating options. It provides ample cargo space and numerous storage compartments, making it a practical choice for families.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Volvo XC40 8 out of 10 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander 7 out of 10.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 features a large touchscreen with a portrait layout, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also offers an available 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
In comparison, the 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system has been criticized for its outdated interface and low-resolution screen. However, it compensates with a large head-up display, a crisp 7-inch display in the instrument cluster, and standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integration with Amazon Alexa.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Volvo XC40 7 out of 10 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander 9 out of 10.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 comes standard with a comprehensive array of safety features, including City Safe automatic braking, blind-spot detection, and a rear-collision warning system. It also offers optional Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard, offering automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also received a 2020 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings and detailed comparison, both the 2019 Volvo XC40 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander offer compelling features and capabilities. However, the 2019 Volvo XC40 just edges ahead overall.
Choose the 2019 Volvo XC40 if:
- You prioritize a standout design and innovative storage solutions.
- You seek a subcompact SUV with impressive fuel economy and advanced technology features.
Choose the 2020 Toyota Highlander if:
- Safety features and ratings are a top priority for you.
- You need a versatile and spacious SUV with practical family-friendly features.
- You are looking for a well-rounded SUV with a sound value proposition.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings and detailed comparison, both the 2019 Volvo XC40 and the 2020 Toyota Highlander offer compelling features and capabilities. However, the 2019 Volvo XC40 just edges ahead overall.
Choose the 2019 Volvo XC40 if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a standout design and innovative storage solutions.
- You seek a subcompact SUV with impressive fuel economy and advanced technology features.
Choose the 2020 Toyota Highlander if:
Shop Now- Safety features and ratings are a top priority for you.
- You need a versatile and spacious SUV with practical family-friendly features.
- You are looking for a well-rounded SUV with a sound value proposition.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.