2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights flanking the prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5's overall appearance was classy and modern, with exceptional fit and finish. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. The interior featured high-quality materials like real wood and metal, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line swooping over the rear wheel arch, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, resulting in a somewhat disjointed design compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that spanned the passenger side, creating a helpful storage tray. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high on the dash, reducing driver distraction. The Bronze Edition featured unique elements like 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric seat upholstery, which attracted dirt and stains. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing compared to alternatives, and the third row had more hard plastics, making it less comfortable.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, with impressive fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD and offered various driving modes for battery power management. Handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It used a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle when needed. The Highlander Hybrid reached 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT resulted in an uninspired drone during heavy acceleration. Braking was traditional, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The ride quality was soft, with adequate cornering confidence and a quiet cabin on the highway.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered smart packaging, with the battery pack under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It provided 710 litres of space behind the second row and 1,503 litres with the second row folded. The second row offered reasonable legroom (960 mm), headroom (958 mm), and shoulder room (1,435 mm). The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with a range of adjustments and heating options. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage options and an uncluttered design.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with plenty of adjustments for drivers. However, the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. The interior offered ample storage, including a deep tray under the infotainment screen and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for increased passenger capacity. The third row was less accommodating, with limited headroom and legroom, suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seatbacks folded and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The cabin offered customization with LED ambient lighting and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for the top trim. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on higher trims. Navigation and a JBL premium audio system were available on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top "good" ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. The Platinum trim offered additional features like a surround view camera system and head-up display.