Chevrolet Tahoe vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a diverse range of trims, each with distinct styling elements. The base LS and popular LT models featured unique grille patterns, while the sporty RST boasted a slotted grille, blacked-out appearance, and 22-inch wheels. The rugged Z71 combined off-road enhancements with a blacked-out look and unique 20-inch wheels. The upscale Premier and luxurious High Country trims added chrome accents and polished wheels, with the latter featuring a chrome bar grille and body-color mirror caps. The Tahoe's design was dominated by its grille, with LED headlights and expressive taillights enhancing its bold appearance. Despite its slab-sided look, larger wheels improved its overall aesthetic.

Inside, the Tahoe's interior focused on a 10.2-inch infotainment screen and new electronic transmission controls. While storage capacity improved, the control layout was less intuitive. The Z71 trim we tested included leather seats, a power panoramic sunroof, and a power sliding floor console, with a total price of $76,225. The cabin featured exposed stitching and soft-touch surfaces, though hard plastic was prevalent in the lower half. The Tahoe's interior quality met expectations, offering comfort and functionality for up to eight passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling inspiration from the Tacoma pickup, with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia lending a rugged appearance. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the grille design, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall look compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment screen, reducing driver distraction.

The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition we tested had light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which seemed less durable for family use. Softex synthetic leather was used throughout, with genuine leather available only on higher trims. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was less comfortable with limited headroom and legroom. Despite its styling and material drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid remained appealing due to its hybrid powertrain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options. Most trims featured a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, while the High Country boasted a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower. A turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine was available for most trims, excluding the Z71. The diesel promised improved fuel efficiency with 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission powered the Tahoe, with a towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds. The Z71 trim included standard 4WD, hill descent control, and off-road enhancements.

The Tahoe's independent rear suspension improved ride quality and interior comfort. Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride suspension options further enhanced performance, providing a smooth ride over various terrains. The 5.3-liter V8 and 10-speed transmission delivered ample power and a satisfying V8 rumble. The Tahoe's handling was commendable, with suspension upgrades controlling body roll and motion, making it feel athletic on back roads.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The CVT's uninspired drone was noticeable during acceleration, especially uphill.

Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander's ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing bumps. While not sporty, it offered adequate cornering confidence. The cabin remained quiet on highways, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's independent rear suspension improved passenger comfort and cargo space. Heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel enhanced comfort, though ventilated seats were absent. The power sliding storage console offered secure storage and convenience. Second-row captain’s chairs provided comfort and easy access to the third row, which accommodated adults comfortably. The Tahoe offered 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 122.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen and a large center armrest bin. Second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining capabilities. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced computing power and cybersecurity. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Chevrolet Connected Services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with impressive voice recognition. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, though the head-up display was absent.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL premium audio system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, forward-collision warning, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a Safety Alert Seat. A surround-view camera was recommended for maneuvering the large SUV. Crash test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The systems generally worked well, though some fine-tuning was needed for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.