2026 Toyota Highlander LE vs 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
RAV4 LE starts at $31,380, $9,190 less. Highlander LE leads with 36 MPG. Highlander LE makes 243 hp (+40).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Highlander LE | 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,570 +$9,190 | $31,380 Save $9,190 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 243 hp +40 hp | 203 hp 40 hp less |
| Torque | 175 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 36 +9 | 27 9 less |
| Hwy MPG | 35 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 36 +6 | 30 6 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 8 +3 | 5 3 less |
| Cargo | 16.0 cu ft | 37.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 10.5" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,330 lbs | 3,615 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 105.9" |
| Length | 194.9" | 180.9" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 17" Steel |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | TSS 2.5 |
Highlander LE or RAV4 LE?
Both are competitive. RAV4 LE has a lower entry price, Highlander LE leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Highlander LE and 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Highlander LE or RAV4 LE?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota Highlander or Toyota RAV4?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota Highlander or Toyota RAV4?
Is the Toyota Highlander bigger than the Toyota RAV4?
What is the cost of insurance for the Highlander LE vs RAV4 LE?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota Highlander LE?
Who Should Choose the Highlander LE
The 2026 Toyota Highlander LE appeals to buyers who prioritize what Toyota does best: practicality and resale value. At $40,570, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 36 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: Highlander LE vs Highlander XLE, Highlander LE vs Highlander Limited, Highlander XLE vs Highlander Limited.
Who Should Choose the RAV4 LE
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
Toyota's approach to this suv emphasizes long-term dependability and conservative engineering. If that aligns with your priorities, the RAV4 LE deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $9,190 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Highlander LE is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Highlander LE makes 40 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 40 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 40 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Toyota and Toyota often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.