Chevrolet Tahoe vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a diverse range of trims, each with distinct styling elements that set them apart. The base LS and LT trims featured different grille patterns, while the sporty RST trim boasted a slotted grille, blacked-out appearance, and 22-inch wheels. The rugged Z71 trim combined the LS grille with a blacked-out look, red tow hooks, a skid plate, and unique 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. The upscale Premier trim added chrome accents and polished wheels, while the luxurious High Country trim featured a chrome bar grille and bright-finish 22-inch wheels. The Tahoe's design was dominated by its grille, with standard LED headlights and expressive taillights. Despite its familiar design themes, the new Tahoe appeared more slab-sided, with larger wheels enhancing its overall look.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged appearance. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear bloated. The rear design echoed the trapezoidal grille, resulting in a somewhat disjointed overall look compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that broke up monotony and provided storage. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high for reduced distraction. The Bronze Edition test vehicle included 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric 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 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options, starting with a 5.3-litre V8 delivering 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, standard in all trims except the High Country. The High Country featured a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel inline six-cylinder was available for all trims except the Z71, offering 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, with improved fuel efficiency. The Tahoe's 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with four-wheel drive optional on base trims and standard on others. The Z71 trim included a two-speed transfer case, hill descent control, and off-road features. The Tahoe could tow up to 3,810 kilograms and handle 831 kilograms of payload. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality, and optional Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride suspension enhanced comfort and handling.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided quick initial acceleration, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound, especially when climbing hills. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride quality, with a suspension that smoothed over bumps while maintaining adequate cornering confidence. The cabin remained quiet on highways, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's new independent rear suspension improved passenger comfort and cargo space. The test vehicle featured heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. The power sliding storage console provided additional storage options. The second row offered a bench seat or captain's chairs, with the latter option providing comfort and entertainment displays. The third-row seat was more spacious, accommodating adults comfortably. The Tahoe offered 722 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,056 litres with the seat folded, and a maximum of 3,480 litres.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs. A second-row bench was available, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third-row seat was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seatbacks folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced computing power and cybersecurity. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Navigation and Bose premium audio systems were available upgrades. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with fast Bluetooth pairing and effective wireless Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, though the head-up display was not tested.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. 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 standard on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, rear-seat reminder, forward collision alert, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view camera was recommended for maneuvering the large SUV. The Tahoe had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and automatic high beams. A surround-view camera and head-up display were available on the top trim. The safety systems generally worked well but required some fine-tuning.