Today we are comparing the new Grand Vitara with the Toyota Highlander. At first glance, both cars look quite similar, but they come from different brands with their own philosophies and strengths.
I have a lot of expectations from both cars, especially because I have reviewed the Grand Vitara earlier and it impressed me in many areas.
In this article, I have shared EVERYTHING that you need to know about the difference between Grand Vitara & Toyota Highlander.
So make sure to read till the end.
2. Exterior Design Comparison
2.1 Front Profile
Starting with the front profile, the Grand Vitara looks more mature and attractive. The grille looks bold and the full LED headlight setup gives it a premium touch.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander, also known as the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, carries a more futuristic and subjective design language.
The difference in styling elements, cuts, and lines is quite noticeable when seen up close.
2.2 Side Profile
Moving to the side profile, there are visible differences in styling. Personally, the Highlander looks better from the side with a more modern appeal, whereas the Grand Vitara looks slightly cheaper in comparison. The overall stance and proportions give both vehicles a distinct identity.
2.3 Rear Profile
In the rear profile, the Grand Vitara comes out as the clear winner. The connected tail-light bar and the premium finishing make it stand out.
In comparison, the Highlander’s rear light design is not very appealing and does not match the rest of its futuristic look. Both get LED lights, but the design approach is completely different.
3. Dimensions Comparison
Even though both cars look almost identical in size, the actual measurements tell a different story. The height of both remains the same, but the length varies slightly.
The Highlander is 20 mm longer, and although the difference seems small on paper, it does translate into a minor improvement in interior legroom. The Grand Vitara’s length is influenced by its sharper design choices.
4. Engine Options and Performance
4.1 Engine Types
Both cars come with two engine options. The Maruti 1.5L Smart Hybrid produces 103 bhp and 137 Nm, while Toyota’s 1.5L Strong Hybrid delivers around 130 bhp. The difference in performance is noticeable when driving both side by side.
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4.2 Variant Distribution
Each car offers four variants. The Grand Vitara lineup progresses from Delta to Beta and then to the higher trims. The Toyota Highlander variants are B, S, G, and the top variants respectively.
4.3 Hybrid Availability
The strong hybrid is available only in the higher variants of the Grand Vitara, while Toyota offers the strong hybrid from the second base variant (S). This gives Toyota an advantage for buyers looking for hybrid powertrains at a lower price point. The strong hybrid setup provides better power, excellent fuel efficiency, and around 25 km of electric-only driving range.
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4.4 Budget Considerations
For those with a tighter budget, the Smart Hybrid option is more affordable. But if performance, mileage, and smoother driving are priorities, the strong hybrid makes a much better choice.
5. Features Comparison
5.1 Interior & Comfort Features
Inside the cabin, both cars share almost identical features and overall design since they are based on the same platform.
Key features include a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, digital instrument cluster, 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, heads-up display, and front ventilated seats.
5.2 Safety Features
Both cars are built on the same Maruti global (TECT) platform, so their safety structure is expected to be similar.
Important safety features include 4-wheel disc brakes, a 360-degree camera, TPMS, ESP, and hill-hold control.
5.3 Crash Test Expectations
Although crash test results are not released yet, older models built on similar platforms, such as the 2019 Vitara Brezza, performed well and achieved strong ratings. So, there is a fair expectation of a 4–5 star safety rating for both.
6. Warranty and Service Network
6.1 Warranty
Toyota offers a superior warranty package with a standard 3 years / 1,00,000 km, extendable further. Maruti provides 1 year / 40,000 km as standard, which can be extended to 3 years / 1,00,000 km. The difference clearly shows Toyota’s confidence in their product.
6.2 Service Network
Both brands have extensive national service networks with 300+ outlets across India. Toyota’s service quality is often praised as top-notch, while Maruti’s service is known for being accessible, reliable, and cost-effective.
7. Key Differentiating Points
The major differences include warranty coverage, slight length variation, and the availability of strong hybrid options in lower variants for Toyota. Features and safety remain largely similar between the two.
Conclusion
Both the Grand Vitara and the Toyota Highlander have their own strengths. Choosing between them depends completely on what matters most to you—design, hybrid availability, warranty, features, or brand preference. Let me know which one you prefer and why.