For those evaluating the Toyota Highlander vs Fortuner for your next vehicle, this guide provides clear insights unique to the Gulf region in 2025. Whether you need a dependable family car or a robust off-road companion, read on to see which SUV best aligns with your lifestyle!
Which SUV Should You Choose in 2025?
Deciding between these two models may seem challenging, but we’ve simplified it for you. Consider these top factors for your decision-making:
Family Comfort: If your daily routine involves school runs and weekend outings, the Highlander’s refined interior and easy handling are a big plus.
Adventure Readiness: For those planning off-road journeys and desert drives, the Fortuner comes equipped with a durable chassis ready for tougher terrains.
Budget Consideration: With a base price of around AED 145,000/SAR 145,000 for the Highlander compared to AED 160,000/SAR 160,000 for the Fortuner, the Highlander might offer additional savings over time.
Key Comparison Points for 2025 Models
Performance & Capability
Below is a side-by-side look at each model’s performance metrics. The details below are designed to help you visualize how each SUV will perform on both sunny city roads and challenging desert paths:
Highlander | Fortuner | |
|---|---|---|
Engine | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid (243 HP) | 2.8L Diesel (201 HP) |
Fuel Economy | 14.2 km/L | 11.8 km/L |
4WD System | Automatic AWD | Manual Shift Transfer Case |
In practical terms, the Fortuner’s robust ladder-frame chassis has been shown to handle rough terrain up to 37% more effectively in UAE desert tests. Meanwhile, the Highlander’s hybrid powertrain can lower your overall fuel costs by as much as 22% during urban travels. This table helps you grasp the nuanced performance advantages present in both models.
Interior Space Comparison
Spacious interiors are essential, particularly when you’re navigating family and group travel. Here’s how both SUVs adjust to maintain comfort:
Passenger Comfort:
The Highlander offers an 8-seat configuration with generous legroom of approximately 42.3 cm in every row, ensuring comfort on long drives.
The Fortuner, typically seating 7, provides around 38.7 cm of legroom in the third row, making it a practical choice for smaller families or occasional extra passengers.
Cargo Capacity:
Seats Up | Seats Folded | |
|---|---|---|
Highlander | 658 L | 2076 L |
Fortuner | 516 L | 1832 L |
The Highlander’s larger cargo space serves well for those extra shopping trips or luggage requirements, while the Fortuner still meets the needs of adventure enthusiasts who may require additional gear storage.
Technology Features
Both models for 2025 have embraced new technological updates to enhance your driving experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Shared Upgrades for Both SUVs:
Toyota Safety Sense 3.5
A modern 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports an Arabic user interface
Dual-zone air conditioning equipped with sand filtration to keep the interior comfortable in harsh climates
Highlander-Specific Enhancements:
A digital rearview mirror that makes maneuvering in busy city traffic simpler
An 11-speaker JBL sound system that elevates your in-car entertainment
Front seats with a massaging function designed for extra comfort during long drives
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Understanding long-term ownership costs can be just as important as the purchase price. The table below highlights estimated costs for a 5-year period, providing a snapshot of maintenance and service budgets:
Highlander | Fortuner | |
|---|---|---|
Service Packages (AED/SAR) | 8,200 | 9,500 |
Tire Replacement (AED/SAR) | 3,800 | 5,200 |
Fuel (approx. 15k km/year) | 21,600 | 27,900 |
The Highlander’s hybrid battery is backed by a 10-year warranty, offering peace of mind, and Fortuner owners have noted a resale value boost of roughly 23% after minor desert-specific upgrades. These maintenance insights are intended to help you forecast overall vehicle costs more effectively.
Final Recommendations
When making your final decision, consider the following recommendations based on your driving lifestyle:
Choose the Highlander if you:
Make weekly school runs and enjoy quick trips to the local mall
Value a smooth, car-like driving experience enhanced by the latest hybrid technology
Want to keep maintenance costs in check while enjoying advanced in-cabin features
Choose the Fortuner if you:
Frequently venture into rugged terrains, camping or off-road areas
Need a vehicle with roof rack and winch compatibility for challenging expeditions
Prefer a simpler mechanical setup that’s robust and easy to maintain when driving in remote areas
Both models now offer test drives under simulated UAE desert and sandstorm conditions at local dealerships. Don’t miss out on experiencing these features firsthand before the 2025 models become widely available in September.
FAQ
Q1:What are the key differences between the Toyota Highlander and Fortuner for 2025?
The Toyota Highlander and Fortuner have distinct personalities. The Highlander stands out with its refined hybrid system which improves fuel efficiency, making it ideal for family drives. On the other hand, the Fortuner’s diesel engine and robust chassis cater uniquely to off-road and desert conditions. Both deliver high safety ratings and modern tech features tailored for Middle Eastern drivers. This comparison helps clarify which model meets your lifestyle needs best.
Q2:How do the fuel efficiency and maintenance costs compare for these SUVs?
The Highlander’s hybrid powertrain offers superior fuel efficiency at approximately 14.2 km/L, whereas the Fortuner delivers around 11.8 km/L. When it comes to maintenance, the Highlander tends to have lower service and tire replacement costs over a 5-year period. Drivers have also found that its advanced hybrid components contribute to reduced fuel expenses, particularly in urban settings. For a closer look at these numbers, the cost projection table in the guide can be very helpful.
Q3:Which SUV suits desert conditions and family use in the Gulf region better?
The decision between these two models hinges on your specific daily needs and adventure plans. If you value a comfortable cabin with modern amenities suited for family outings and city commutes, the Highlander is a sound choice. However, if you frequently encounter rough terrains or plan to explore desert landscapes, the Fortuner’s durable infrastructure may prove more reliable. Both vehicles have been engineered with the Gulf region in mind, ensuring they meet GCC certification standards. Always test-drive under local conditions to see which handles best for you.
Q4:What advanced technology and safety features are available in the 2025 models?
Both the Highlander and Fortuner come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.5, which includes state-of-the-art driver assistance features. A 12.3-inch touchscreen, complete with an Arabic user interface, ensures ease of use. The Highlander includes some extra touches like a digital rearview mirror and front seats with massaging functions, adding comfort to each journey. These updates are part of Toyota’s effort to combine safety with modern technological conveniences—a perfect fit for discerning customers in the Gulf region.
This article is for reference only, please follow local laws and regulations as the final guideline in your purchase decisions.
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Abdul Rahman is an avid car enthusiast with over a decade of self-driving travel experience. He loves hitting the road in various vehicles, exploring different landscapes. Besides, he enjoys sharing practical knowledge about car usage, helping fellow drivers solve problems and make the most of their rides.
