2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, although the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The controls were well-organized, but the mix of illumination colours at night made the gauges appear busy.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban adopted Chevrolet's full-size truck design language, resulting in a supersized appearance with a tall hood and long proportions. The Suburban's exterior styling varied by trim level, offering customization options despite its single body style. Our RST test vehicle featured a striking Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior with 22-inch wheels, giving it a sporty look. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious cabin with varying levels of comfort and luxury depending on the trim. The RST trim included Jet Black perforated leather seats with Victory Red stitching, but the predominantly black interior felt somewhat dark. The Suburban's size and mass made it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, but its spaciousness and practicality were undeniable.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency with a rating of 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. However, this change came at the cost of reduced power, with total output dropping to 243 horsepower. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, it lacked driving excitement. The power was adequate for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, but the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. On smooth roads, the SUV handled well, but rough terrain quickly revealed its limitations. The Highlander Hybrid's strengths lay in its electric motor torque and quiet freeway cruising, but it was not an enjoyable vehicle to drive.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered a choice of three engines: a 5.3-litre V8, a 6.2-litre V8, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel inline-six. The 5.3-litre V8 produced 355 horsepower, while the 6.2-litre V8 delivered 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The new 3.0-litre diesel engine provided 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, offering excellent fuel efficiency. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride and handling, and the 6.2-litre V8 in our RST test vehicle provided effortless power and acceleration. During a tow test, the Suburban demonstrated impressive towing capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,765 kilograms. The Suburban's performance was well-suited for hauling and trailering, making it a versatile choice for those needing power and capability.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with 10-way power seat adjustment for the driver. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the Highlander felt narrow, making it uncomfortable for three adults in the second row. The third-row seat was low and lacked support, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the seats folded. However, storage was less generous than the previous generation, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in interior space, accommodating up to nine occupants with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row offered adequate headroom and legroom, and access was excellent. Cargo space was abundant, with 1,175 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 4,097 litres with the seats folded. The Suburban featured a power-sliding centre console and various storage cubbies. However, its size made it challenging to maneuver and park in tight spaces, and the electronic push-button transmission controls required adjustment for those accustomed to a column-mounted shifter.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality varied depending on the music genre. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban boasted an impressive array of technology features. The LT trim and above included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Google built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with an 8-inch touchscreen was standard on the LS, while the LT and above featured a 10.2-inch system with satellite radio. Wireless device charging and a WiFi hotspot were standard on higher trims. The Suburban's audio system ranged from a basic six-speaker setup to a premium Bose 10-speaker system, providing varying levels of sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The system added intersection support and emergency steering assistance. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, while the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban came with Chevy Safety Assist, featuring automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and more. For 2022, additional features like front park assist and lane-keeping assistance became standard. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Suburban received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with varying scores in individual crash tests. The IIHS had not tested the current-generation Suburban.