2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Toyota Highlander
$34,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
$44,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Highlander
$34,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
$44,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$34,600

MSRP

$44,000

Listings

258

Listings

390

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Spacious

Cons

  • Poor handling

  • Uninspired styling

Pros

  • Powerful engine

  • Spacious

  • Spacious third row

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Uncomfortable seats

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

2020 Toyota Highlander Reviews Summary

Midsize three-row SUVs are all spacious and powerful, but only the Toyota Highlander reaches the premium threshold for passenger comfort. Redesigned for 2020, the Highlander's revised styling and technology are secondary to its silent operation, soft ride, and cosseting interior. The upper trims feel and drive just like a Lexus, without the upcharge. There is nothing exciting about a Highlander, and yet, there is no other SUV in the $35,000 to $50,000 range that feels so effortless and tranquil.

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Reviews Summary

The full-size SUV segment is a relatively small one, and Chevrolet dominates it. The Tahoe, and its extended-length twin, the Suburban, account for about half of all big SUV sales despite competitive shortcomings in terms of interior comfort, cargo space, and towing capability. With the all-new 2021 Chevy Tahoe (and Suburban), two of those three flaws are resolved. At the same time, the 2021 Tahoe gets a big upgrade in terms of driving dynamics, technology, and innovation.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 295 hp V6

Engine

5.3L 355 hp V8

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

8

Seating Capacity

6

Horsepower

295 hp @ 6600 rpm

Horsepower

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

15

MPG Highway

28

MPG Highway

20
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Toyota Highlander
$34,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
$44,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Highlander
$34,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
$44,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$34,600
$44,000
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.8

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

8.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Spacious

Cons

  • Poor handling

  • Uninspired styling

Pros

  • Powerful engine

  • Spacious

  • Spacious third row

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Uncomfortable seats

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

Summary
Midsize three-row SUVs are all spacious and powerful, but only the Toyota Highlander reaches the premium threshold for passenger comfort. Redesigned for 2020, the Highlander's revised styling and technology are secondary to its silent operation, soft ride, and cosseting interior. The upper trims feel and drive just like a Lexus, without the upcharge. There is nothing exciting about a Highlander, and yet, there is no other SUV in the $35,000 to $50,000 range that feels so effortless and tranquil.
The full-size SUV segment is a relatively small one, and Chevrolet dominates it. The Tahoe, and its extended-length twin, the Suburban, account for about half of all big SUV sales despite competitive shortcomings in terms of interior comfort, cargo space, and towing capability. With the all-new 2021 Chevy Tahoe (and Suburban), two of those three flaws are resolved. At the same time, the 2021 Tahoe gets a big upgrade in terms of driving dynamics, technology, and innovation.
Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 295 hp V6
5.3L 355 hp V8
Drive Train
FWD
4X2
Seating Capacity
8
6
Horsepower
295 hp @ 6600 rpm
355 hp @ 5600 rpm
MPG City
20
15
MPG Highway
28
20
Look and feel

2020 Toyota Highlander

7/10

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

7/10
Midsize three-row SUVs blend spaciousness and power, yet the 2020 Toyota Highlander sets itself apart by offering a premium passenger experience. Its 2020 redesign not only introduced updated styling and technology but prioritized a quiet, smooth ride, and a luxurious interior reminiscent of a Lexus, all without the added cost. It's a testament to effortless, tranquil driving within its price range. Conversely, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, a leader in the full-size SUV market, addressed previous critiques by enhancing interior comfort, cargo space, and towing capability. Alongside significant improvements in driving dynamics and technological advancements, the 2021 Tahoe presents a compelling option in the big SUV segment, aiming to redefine its standing with innovation and an upgraded driving experience.
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Picture of 2020 Toyota Highlander
Performance

2020 Toyota Highlander

6/10

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

8/10
Performance ratings from CarGurus experts are 6 out of 10 for the Highlander and 8 out of 10 for the Tahoe. The 2020 Highlander's 3.5-liter V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission deliver smooth, if not spirited, acceleration and respectable fuel economy for its class. Its ride is comfortable, prioritizing a soft suspension and minimal driver input, although this comes at the cost of dynamic handling and precise steering feel. The 2021 Tahoe offers a choice of three engines, including a powerful 6.2-liter V8 exclusive to the High Country trim and an upcoming turbo-diesel option promising improved fuel efficiency. The introduction of an independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, and an optional Air Ride suspension significantly enhance the Tahoe's ride quality and handling, making it both comfortable and capable, whether on the highway or off-road.
Form and function

2020 Toyota Highlander

9/10

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

10/10
CarGurus rates the Highlander 9 out of 10 and the Tahoe 10 out of 10 in this category. The Highlander excels in offering seating flexibility, comfortably accommodating up to eight passengers. With 16 cubic feet of luggage capacity behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down, it combines generous cargo space with thoughtful ergonomics. Accessible storage solutions throughout the cabin reflect Toyota's attention to passenger convenience and comfort. In contrast, the Tahoe's adoption of an independent rear suspension has significantly improved third-row seating comfort and expanded cargo space, setting a new benchmark for the full-size SUV class. With 25.5 cubic feet of luggage capacity behind the third row, which increases to a vast 122.9 cubic feet with the second and third rows lowered, the Tahoe stands out for its exceptional accommodation of both passengers and gear. Advanced features like the power sliding storage console further enhance the Tahoe's utility and convenience, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Technology

2020 Toyota Highlander

7/10

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

9/10
Technology ratings stand at 7 out of 10 for the Highlander and 9 out of 10 for the Tahoe. Toyota's infotainment system in the Highlander, despite being functional, lags behind competitors in terms of interface design and screen resolution. However, standard safety features and optional upgrades like the JBL audio system add to its appeal. Chevrolet's Tahoe benefits from a more powerful and intuitive infotainment system, featuring wireless connectivity options and over-the-air update capabilities. The inclusion of advanced safety technologies and entertainment options further positions the Tahoe as a tech-forward option in its segment.
Safety

2020 Toyota Highlander

9/10

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

9/10
Both vehicles score a 9 out of 10 for safety from CarGurus experts. The Highlander comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. It has earned a 2020 Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), underscoring its commitment to passenger safety. The Tahoe includes a range of standard and optional safety features, such as Teen Driver technology and a variety of collision avoidance systems. Its available technologies suggest a strong focus on protecting occupants.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Toyota Highlander is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe scores 8.5 out of 10. Given these ratings, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe emerges as the more highly recommended vehicle between the two, particularly for buyers seeking advanced technology, superior performance, and enhanced comfort and utility in a full-size SUV.

Choose the 2020 Toyota Highlander if:

7.7of 10overall
  • You value a premium interior and comfort without the luxury brand price.
  • You prefer a more fuel-efficient and maneuverable midsize SUV.
  • You're looking for a vehicle with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability.
258 results
See all

Choose the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe if:

8.5of 10overall
  • You require the additional space, towing capacity, and versatility of a full-size SUV.
  • Advanced technology and infotainment features are a priority for you.
  • You prefer a vehicle with robust performance options and superior ride quality.
390 results
See all

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Toyota Highlander is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe scores 8.5 out of 10. Given these ratings, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe emerges as the more highly recommended vehicle between the two, particularly for buyers seeking advanced technology, superior performance, and enhanced comfort and utility in a full-size SUV.

Choose the 2020 Toyota Highlander if:

Shop Now
7.7of 10overall
  • You value a premium interior and comfort without the luxury brand price.
  • You prefer a more fuel-efficient and maneuverable midsize SUV.
  • You're looking for a vehicle with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability.
258 results

Choose the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe if:

Shop Now
8.5of 10overall
  • You require the additional space, towing capacity, and versatility of a full-size SUV.
  • Advanced technology and infotainment features are a priority for you.
  • You prefer a vehicle with robust performance options and superior ride quality.
390 results

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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