2025 Honda CR-V EX vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
$8,070 less and 4 mpg better vs 75 more hp and 131 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $8,070 price gap, 190 vs 265 hp, 28 vs 24 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on $8,070 less, 4 MPG better. The Highlander LE leads on 75 more hp, 131 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda CR-V EX | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,850 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 112.2" |
| Length | 184.8" | 194.9" |
| Width | 73.5" | 76.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda CR-V EX and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX starts at $33,850, $8,070 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $142/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,070 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX rates 28 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 75 more than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX at 190 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 10.1″ longer at 194.9″ vs 184.8″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 5.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
- 2025 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Toyota Highlander LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
CR-V vs Highlander: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $8,070 gap adds up to $142/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 75 more hp (265 vs 190). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 131 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 179), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs Highlander
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 10.1″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 5.9″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE weighs 716 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX when you want to keep $8,070 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 75 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $142/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Toyota or any dealership.