2025 Lexus UX vs 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Comparison Overview
Deciding between supreme efficiency and sheer size is the big question when comparing the 2025 Lexus UX and the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander. If your daily drive involves dodging traffic and maximizing fuel stops, the Lexus UX is the clear efficiency champion, boasting an exceptional 43 combined MPG versus the Grand Highlander's 24 combined MPG—a massive 19 MPG difference. However, if you routinely ferry more than five people or need serious hauling ability, the Grand Highlander’s extra length (201.4 inches versus the UX's 177.0 inches) makes it the practical choice. The price gap is also significant, with the Lexus starting at $36,740, saving you $4,620 upfront compared to the Toyota’s $41,360 MSRP. While the Lexus offers 196 hp, the Grand Highlander punches out 265 hp, but it pays for that performance with substantially lower efficiency.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Lexus UX
The Lexus UX wins easily for commuters due to its stellar 43 combined MPG rating, drastically cutting down fuel costs.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
The Toyota Grand Highlander is the better family vehicle because it is significantly larger, offering more overall width and greater cargo capacity at 20.6 cu ft.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
The Grand Highlander appeals more to enthusiasts with its higher output of 265 horsepower and superior 310 lb-ft of torque.
2025 Lexus UX
The Lexus UX provides better value by saving the buyer $4,620 upfront while delivering exceptional fuel economy.
Choose the Lexus UX if...
- Your primary concern is minimizing stops at the pump, thanks to its 43 combined MPG.
- You prefer a smaller footprint for city navigation, as it is nearly 24 inches shorter than the Grand Highlander.
- You want to save $4,620 immediately, as the Lexus UX MSRP is significantly lower.
Choose the Toyota Grand Highlander if...
- You need substantial cargo space, with the Grand Highlander offering 20.6 cu ft compared to the UX's 17.1 cu ft.
- You value powerful acceleration, supported by the Grand Highlander’s 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
- You require the size and presence of a vehicle that measures 201.4 inches long, making it considerably larger than the UX.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Lexus UX | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 177.0" | 201.4" |
| Width | 72.4" | 78.3" |
| Height | 60.6" | 70.1" |
| Wheelbase | 103.9" | 116.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | — |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | — |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Multi-Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Third Row Head Airbags | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | — | ✓ |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.4 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | hybrid | gas |
| Horsepower | 196 hp | 265 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
| Torque | — | 310 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm |
Drive Train
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | front wheel drive |
Fuel
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 45/41 MPG | 21/28 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 43 MPG | 24 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 477.0/434.6 mi. | 373.8/498.4 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 10.6 gal. | 17.8 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | — |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | — |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | — | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | — | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | — | ✓ |
| Three Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 8.0 in | 12.3 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 6 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | — |
Power Feature
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 37.2 in. | 41.5 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 42.0 in. | 41.7 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.0 in. | 60.2 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 53.8 in. | 56.5 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | — |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | — |
| Seat Material: Cloth | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | — | 4-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 36.3 in. | 40.2 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 33.1 in. | 39.5 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 52.9 in. | 58.8 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 52.3 in. | 57.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | — | ✓ |
| Manual Folding Third Row Seat | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 7.0 in | 18 x 7.5 in |
| Tire Size | 225/50R18 | 255/65R18 |
| Run Flat Tires | ✓ | — |
| Wheel Material | — | Alloy |
| Tire Type | — | All Season |
| Spare Tire Type | — | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | — | Inside Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Lexus | Toyota |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 6 yr./ 70000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | 8 yr./ 100000 mi. | — |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 6 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 2 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 1 yr./ 10000 mi. | 2 yr./ 25000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Lexus UX and 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander.
How much more fuel-efficient is the Lexus UX than the Grand Highlander?
The Lexus UX is significantly more efficient, achieving 43 combined MPG compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander’s 24 combined MPG. This results in a difference of 19 MPG for city and highway driving scenarios.
Is the Toyota Grand Highlander faster than the Lexus UX?
Yes, the Grand Highlander offers more performance potential, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Lexus UX produces a more modest 196 hp.
What is the price difference between these two crossovers?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander starts at $41,360 MSRP, making it $4,620 more expensive than the 2025 Lexus UX, which starts at $36,740.
Which vehicle has more room for luggage?
The Toyota Grand Highlander offers better cargo capacity, boasting 20.6 cubic feet. The Lexus UX is tighter, providing only 17.1 cubic feet of storage space.
Do both vehicles use the same fuel type?
Yes, surprisingly, both the luxury-badged Lexus UX and the larger Toyota Grand Highlander are specified to run on regular unleaded fuel.
What is the main size disparity between the two SUVs?
The Grand Highlander is substantially larger in every dimension, measuring 201.4 inches in length and 70.1 inches in height, while the UX is much smaller at 177.0 inches long and 60.6 inches tall.
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