The battle of the SUVs is heating up as 2025 approaches! If you’ve been wondering about the differences between the Fortuner vs Highlander, this guide is crafted just for you. Dive in to see which model aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs in the Gulf region.
How to Choose Between Fortuner and Highlander in 2025
Before heading to a showroom, ask yourself a few straightforward questions:
What is your budget? Consider spending around AED 150,000/SAR 150,000 to AED 220,000/SAR 220,000.
What kind of terrain do you drive on most? Think about urban roads versus desert tracks.
How many seats do you require? Decide between a 5-seater or a 7-seater setup.
What technology are you after? Do you lean towards simple, user-friendly infotainment or a more advanced system?
This checklist helps you pinpoint your priorities and steer you toward the right test drive experience in the GCC market.
Performance Showdown
Off-Road Capability Comparison
If rugged performance is crucial, both models offer standout features. Check out this comparison:
Fortuner is equipped with a full-time 4WD system and boasts a ground clearance of 225mm, making it ideal for desert or rugged terrain. It comes with a standard hill descent control, ensuring confident navigation over uneven surfaces.
Highlander offers an on-demand 4WD system with a slightly lower ground clearance at 208mm. While hill descent control is available as an optional upgrade, its design is more tuned for urban driving without sacrificing off-road capabilities entirely.
Feature | Fortuner | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
Ground Clearance | 225mm | 208mm |
4WD System | Full-Time | On-Demand |
Hill Descent | Standard | Optional |
Fuel Efficiency Metrics
When it comes to saving on fuel, technology makes a huge difference:
The Highlander's hybrid variant impresses with an estimated combined efficiency of 18.5 km/l, which is ideal for balancing city drives and longer journeys.
The Fortuner, available with a diesel engine, delivers around 12.8 km/l on highways. Its petrol options usually fall between 9 and 11 km/l in busy urban settings.
Opting for the right powertrain can reduce both your fuel costs and your environmental footprint over time.
Interior & Practicality
Family-Friendly Features
Space and comfort are paramount when selecting your SUV, especially for family trips:
Highlander Advantages:
Offers wider second-row seats (147cm compared to 142cm) for improved legroom.
Comes standard with a triple-zone AC, ensuring comfort for everyone in the vehicle.
Provides a substantial 457L of cargo space behind the third row, perfect for groceries or luggage on extended trips.
Fortuner Strengths:
Features a higher roof clearance of 1,855mm to accommodate taller items and enhance the sense of space.
Uses water-resistant seat fabric, making it easier to clean after outdoor adventures.
Includes multiple 12V outlets across all rows, catering to the tech needs of every passenger.
These practical touches mean that whether planning a weekend outing or daily drive, each model has its unique advantages to suit your lifestyle in the UAE and wider Gulf region.
Technology & Safety
Infotainment Systems
Staying connected on the road is a priority. Both SUVs aim to integrate modern tech without overwhelming the user:
The Highlander 2025 impresses with a 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports voice-controlled navigation, offering an intuitive tech experience.
The Fortuner features a more compact 9-inch display paired with physical knobs, a nod to those who favor tactile control over large touchscreens.
Both vehicles support wireless integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring smooth connectivity whichever ecosystem you prefer.
Advanced Safety Packages
Safety remains a top benchmark when comparing these two SUVs:
Both models come with features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Tracing Assist, fulfilling GCC certification standards.
The Highlander Platinum trim steps up with additional aids such as a Panoramic View Monitor and Front Cross Traffic Alert, giving you extra peace of mind in busy urban settings.
These safety features are thoughtfully integrated to cater to Gulf drivers who demand reliability under both city and desert conditions.
Ownership Costs Breakdown
Maintenance Comparison
Understanding long-term ownership costs can help you budget better:
Service Intervals: The Fortuner typically requires servicing every 10,000 km, while the Highlander stretches to 15,000 km, potentially lowering maintenance hassles.
Hybrid Battery Warranty: While the Fortuner does not offer a hybrid variant, the Highlander’s hybrid comes with an 8-year battery warranty, a significant plus for tech-savvy buyers.
Local Service Plans: In the UAE, service plans are priced around AED 2,500/SAR 2,500 per year for the Fortuner compared to AED 3,100/SAR 3,100 for the Highlander. This reflects subtle differences in premium features and aftersales support across the region.
Cost Factor | Fortuner | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
Service Interval | Every 10,000 km | Every 15,000 km |
Hybrid Battery Warranty | Not Applicable | 8 years |
UAE Service Plans | AED 2,500/SAR 2,500/yr | AED 3,100/SAR 3,100/yr |
Resale Value Projections
Resale value is another key aspect of ownership in the GCC:
The Fortuner is expected to retain approximately 65% of its value after 3 years, reflecting its solid reputation in tough driving environments.
The Highlander, on the other hand, is estimated at around 58% retention, a figure influenced by its emphasis on urban and hybrid technologies.
These projections are based on recent UAE market trends and underscore the importance of choosing a model that aligns with your long-term financial plans.
Final Recommendations
Best Use Cases
To help you make the final decision, here are some tailored insights:
If you frequently embark on desert excursions or need higher towing capacities (up to 3,100 kg), the Fortuner is a compelling choice. Its mechanical reliability and robust off-road design make it perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
If your daily routine involves city commuting and you lean towards a quieter, tech-rich cabin with hybrid efficiency, then the Highlander fits the bill. Its advanced infotainment systems and spacious layout cater well to family needs.
Remember, prices mentioned here reflect UAE showroom figures, and it’s always wise to visit authorized Toyota dealers in Dubai or Abu Dhabi to experience both vehicles firsthand.
FAQ
Q1:How do the Fortuner and Highlander compare in off-road performance?
The Fortuner takes the edge with a full-time 4WD system and greater ground clearance, making it more adept for off-road and desert conditions common in the Gulf. The Highlander, while supporting on-demand 4WD, is optimized for urban driving. Consider your local driving environment when making your choice, especially if you plan to venture into rough terrains. The performance nuances, including hill descent and traction control, are designed to meet GCC road certification standards.
Q2:Which model offers better fuel efficiency in the 2025 lineup?
The 2025 Highlander hybrid variant stands out with an efficiency of about 18.5 km/l combined, making it a solid candidate for those concerned about fuel costs during city driving. In contrast, the diesel-powered Fortuner averages around 12.8 km/l on the highway. Your mileage needs ultimately depend on whether your driving is predominantly urban or involves long desert journeys.
Q3:Are there significant differences in the technology features?
Yes, the differences in technology may affect your comfort and convenience. The Highlander offers a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with voice navigation, while the Fortuner opts for a more traditional 9-inch display with physical knobs. Both systems support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer modern digital interfaces or simpler, tactile controls.
Q4:What ownership costs should I be aware of in the Gulf region?
Maintenance intervals, warranty terms, and service plans vary between the models. The Highlander’s longer service interval and hybrid battery warranty can reduce long-term costs, while the Fortuner is renowned for its straightforward mechanics and durability. In the UAE market, service plans range around AED 2,500/SAR 2,500 per year for the Fortuner and AED 3,100/SAR 3,100 per year for the Highlander. Always factor in local service quality and dealership support when budgeting.
Please note:This article is for reference only. Please follow the latest laws and regulations in your area.
Read More:
What Is the Most Expensive Car? 2025 Buyer’s Guide
Mustafa Karim, having been deeply involved in automotive research and development for over ten years. He is fond of Japanese cars, and their precise and energy-efficient features have influenced him. In his spare time, he loves Japanese anime and kendo, drawing inspiration from them for control system research and development. He also often shares cutting-edge automotive knowledge on platforms, contributing to industry innovation and adding strength to automotive development with his expertise.
