Are you trying to decide between the Highlander and the Fortuner for your next SUV purchase? This guide provides a detailed comparison designed for drivers in the GCC region. With the latest updates for 2025, you'll discover how these models stack up when it comes to performance, comfort, and overall value.
Key Decision Factors for SUV Buyers in 2025
When considering a new SUV, you need clear, relatable information. In this section, we break down the performance, fuel efficiency, and other crucial factors to help guide your decision.
Driving Performance Comparison
● Engine & Efficiency Options:The Highlander's 2.4L turbo hybrid engine offers an impressive fuel efficiency rating at 36 MPG combined, making it a great choice for urban and highway driving. On the other hand, the Fortuner's robust 2.8L diesel engine provides a reliable 27 MPG. These numbers can translate into significantly different weekly fuel costs when calculated in AED/SAR, especially under local driving conditions.
● Terrain Adaptability & Handling:If you face mixed road conditions, note that the Fortuner is engineered with enhanced crawl control that handles inclines of up to 35° with ease. Meanwhile, the Highlander's Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive is optimized for smooth paved roads, ensuring a confident drive even on busy city streets.
Cabin Comfort & Technology
Understanding interior features is key to choosing the right SUV for you and your family. The cabin design of each model is packed with thoughtful innovations:
Highlander | Fortuner | |
|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity | 8 standard seats with flexible arrangements | 7 seats that can be adjusted to suit your needs |
Infotainment System | 12.3-inch touchscreen offering seamless connectivity | 10.1-inch display designed for user-friendliness |
Climate Control | 3-zone climate control for enhanced comfort | 2-zone system ensuring even temperature distribution |
The Highlander focuses on family-friendly features like sliding second-row seats for easier child seat installation and a rear door alert system to remind you of forgotten items. In contrast, the Fortuner is tailored for adventurous drivers, providing a robust setup for tougher terrains and variable road conditions in the GCC region.
Maintenance Considerations
Owning an SUV in a climate like the UAE or Saudi Arabia means factoring in maintenance and service needs:
Service Intervals:
The Highlander hybrid typically requires a service check every 16,000 km, helping you plan for routine maintenance in AED/SAR terms.
The Fortuner diesel, being more performance-oriented, often needs servicing every 10,000 km to keep its engine running at its best.
Warranty & Reliability:
The Highlander comes with a 5-year/160,000 km warranty on the hybrid battery, offering long-term reassurance.
The Fortuner provides a 3-year/100,000 km coverage on its powertrain, reflecting its robust construction but hinting at higher maintenance frequency.
Top Use Cases for Each Model
Your driving lifestyle plays a significant role in deciding between these two SUVs.
Family-Oriented Drivers
For families, the Highlander stands out with features that make daily logistics easier. Its sliding second-row seats allow for simplified child seat installations, while integrated safety alerts help ensure that important items aren’t accidentally left behind. This focus on convenience and safety ensures you can spend more time enjoying your journey rather than worrying about the details.
Adventure Seekers
If your heart beats for adventure, the Fortuner might be your best bet. The 2025 Fortuner upgrades include:
Water-resistant upholstery designed to handle rugged outdoor conditions
A powerful 2,400W power outlet setup available in bed/cargo areas for camping or off-road excursions
A remarkable 800mm wading depth capability, catering to the occasional river crossing or flooded path in desert conditions
These enhancements ensure that the Fortuner can support your escapades across diverse terrains while still maintaining a high standard of performance under GCC road conditions.
Cost of Ownership Analysis
Budgeting for your new SUV means looking at fuel expenses and resale value carefully:
Fuel Expenses
● Highlander Hybrid:With an average consumption of 8.1L/100km, you might expect to spend around AED 220/SAR 220 weekly on fuel based on local fuel prices in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, assuming a typical usage of 15,000 km per annum.
● Fortuner Diesel:It averages about 9.8L/100km, translating to roughly AED 265/SAR 265 weekly. Such figures allow you to draw a clear picture of the long-term running costs for each model.
Resale Value Projections
The resale value is another essential factor to consider:
The 2025 Highlander is estimated to retain about 65% of its value after 3 years, making it a smart long-term investment.
The 2025 Fortuner, while durable, holds approximately 58% of its original value after 3 years, which could influence your decision if resale is part of your ownership plan.
Latest Safety Innovations
Safety is paramount in every drive, and both models incorporate state-of-the-art features:
● Common Features:
An Emergency Driving Stop System that helps prevent accidents
A 360-degree camera equipped with obstacle detection for enhanced situational awareness
A rear seat reminder system to ensure no passenger is forgotten
● Highlander Exclusive:
Predictive Pedestrian Detection with night vision assistance adds a layer of security during low-light conditions.
● Fortuner Advantage:
Off-road Turn Assist, which reduces the turning radius by 0.7m, enhancing maneuverability in tricky desert and off-road scenarios.
FAQ
Q1:How does the fuel efficiency of the Highlander compare to the Fortuner in urban settings?
The Highlander’s hybrid system excels in city driving, delivering an estimated 36 MPG combined. This means you experience lower fuel consumption compared to the Fortuner's 27 MPG diesel output, which is more suited for long-distance journeys. The performance differences become evident in stop-and-go traffic. In the GCC, this efficiency translates to tangible savings in AED/SAR on your weekly fuel bills. Understanding these figures can really help you decide if fuel economy is a priority for you.
Q2:Which SUV offers more interior space and passenger comfort for family outings?
The Highlander is designed with family comfort in mind. It provides an 8-seat configuration along with features like sliding second-row seats that make installing child seats simpler. The Fortuner, while offering a slightly lower seating arrangement with up to 7 seats, focuses more on providing a robust, adventure-ready cabin. For families where passenger space and comfort are a top priority, the Highlander stands out as the practical choice. This makes it better suited for daily commutes and long road trips in the hot climates of the GCC.
Q3:What type of maintenance costs should I expect with each model when driving in the GCC region?
Maintenance costs vary between the two models due to their different engines and service intervals. The Highlander hybrid typically needs servicing every 16,000 km, offering a longer gap between services, which could reduce maintenance hassles. Conversely, the Fortuner diesel demands service every 10,000 km to keep its performance intact. Both vehicles come with specific warranty coverages that further affect long-term costs. Considering the extreme weather and demanding road conditions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, evaluating maintenance costs early on can lead to more informed decisions.
Q4:Are there any safety features that cater specifically to challenging driving conditions in the GCC?
Yes, both the Highlander and Fortuner come equipped with advanced safety innovations. Features like the Emergency Driving Stop System and a 360-degree camera system are built to address critical situations, ensuring that you and your passengers are protected. The Highlander adds Predictive Pedestrian Detection with night vision, ideal for low-visibility environments. Similarly, the Fortuner’s Off-road Turn Assist enhances driving precision on rough terrain, making them both competent choices for the unique road conditions prevalent in the GCC region.
This article is for reference only, please adhere to the latest local laws and regulations.
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Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
