Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Acura ADX

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle was a top Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Changes for 2023 were minimal, with a new Cypress Green paint and standard power-folding mirrors for Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was considered over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior was criticized for its mismatched textures, reflections, and a lack of perceived quality, despite being quiet on the road due to acoustic front window glass.

The 2025 Acura ADX, sharing its platform with the Honda HR-V, showcased distinct Acura styling with a striking pentagonal grille and LED lighting. The A-Spec models featured additional sporty elements like LED fog lights and Berlina Black 19-inch wheels. The interior of the ADX was praised for its premium feel, with genuine leather in the A-Spec Advance trim and thoughtful use of colored elements. The ADX offered a range of interior color options, though some combinations were limited by exterior color choices. Despite expectations of cost-cutting, the ADX maintained a premium feel, comparable to larger Acura SUVs.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 horsepower. The AWD version included a third electric motor for the rear wheels. The Highlander Hybrid was designed for fuel efficiency, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, though it fell short of its EPA-rated 35 mpg, achieving only 28.7 mpg in testing. The SUV's performance was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a lack of high-speed passing power. It offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with an additional Trail mode for AWD models, though it was best suited for light trail work.

The 2025 Acura ADX came standard with FWD, with AWD available for an additional $2,000. It was powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful in its class, the ADX was sufficient for everyday tasks and offered a fun driving experience on twisty roads. The ADX featured multiple drive modes, including Sport, Normal, Comfort, and Snow, with the Advance Package adding an Individual Mode for customized settings. The ADX's fuel economy was competitive, though not hybrid-level, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg combined.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid could accommodate seven or eight passengers, though the third row was best for occasional use. Standard features included three-zone automatic climate control, with heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs in the test vehicle. The interior offered power-adjustable front seats and a useful dashboard shelf with a wireless smartphone charger. However, storage areas were unlined, and the center armrest storage console was criticized for its complex design. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2025 Acura ADX featured leatherette seating in the base trim, with microsuede accents in A-Spec models and genuine leather in the Advance Package. The interior offered more headroom and legroom than some competitors, with 38.4 inches of front headroom and 41.9 inches of legroom. Rear seat legroom was 37.7 inches, and cargo space measured 24.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. Standard features included a power tailgate, dual-zone climate control, and rear-seat vents.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology for 2023, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The system offered over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected service plans. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. While the infotainment platform was user-friendly, the graphics lacked contrast, making it difficult to see at times.

The 2025 Acura ADX prioritized technology, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wi-fi hotspot, and a wireless phone charging pad. The ADX featured a nine-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, with physical volume controls. A-Spec models added rear USB-C ports, while the Advance Package included Alexa Built-In, Google Built-In, HD Radio, and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with a unique "beosonic" app for sound customization.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Hybrids also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Acura ADX featured the standard AcuraWatch suite, providing adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assist. The ADX earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA, though it received "Acceptable" ratings in some categories.