Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Honda Prologue

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with the Limited trim reaching $61,800 in Canada. It featured minimal appearance changes, with a new Cypress Green paint colour. The design was described as over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior was criticized for its mismatched textures, reflections, and a lack of quality in materials and controls. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid was noted for its quietness on the road.

The 2024 Honda Prologue, in contrast, was praised for its near-normal EV appearance, with a smooth front panel and traditional Honda styling. It offered personalization options like skid plates and side cladding. The Prologue's proportions were likened to a cartoon gangster's car, with a low roof and large wheels. Inside, the Touring trim featured a brown and black interior, with a layout similar to other Honda models. The interior was described as familiar and upscale, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 horsepower. It offered standard AWD and could operate solely on electricity at low speeds. However, the gas engine's torque was limited, affecting high-speed performance and towing capacity. The Highlander Hybrid featured Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its performance was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a lack of engaging driving dynamics. Fuel economy was a focus, but real-world results fell short of expectations.

The 2024 Honda Prologue featured a dual-motor AWD setup, delivering 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. It offered a range of up to 452 kilometres, depending on the trim and wheel size. The Prologue was designed to provide familiar Honda driving dynamics, with adjustable regenerative braking settings and a one-pedal drive option. Its long wheelbase contributed to a comfortable ride, and Sport mode enhanced throttle, brake, and steering response. The Prologue was noted for its enjoyable driving experience, particularly on winding roads.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seat was best for occasional use, and accessing it was challenging. The interior offered standard three-zone climate control and heated front seats, with additional features in higher trims. Storage solutions were criticized for their complexity and lack of lining, affecting utility and noise levels. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 2,387 litres available.

The 2024 Honda Prologue featured traditional door handles and a spacious cabin with up to 3,163 litres of passenger volume. It offered impressive legroom, though headroom was less generous. Standard features included heated front seats and dual-zone climate control, with additional amenities in higher trims. The cargo area provided between 671 and 714 litres of space, with a flat load floor and a deep compartment beneath. The Prologue lacked a front trunk but offered practical storage solutions.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connected services and a Drive Connect subscription enhanced functionality, while a JBL sound system provided decent audio quality. The technology was user-friendly, though some graphics lacked clarity.

The 2024 Honda Prologue came with keyless access, a wireless charger, and four USB-C ports. It featured an 11.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 11-inch digital driver-information display. Google Built-In provided native navigation and route planning. Higher trims offered a Bose premium audio system and Active Sound Control, enhancing the driving experience with artificial sounds.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, among others. Higher trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Honda Prologue featured the Honda Sensing suite, with new additions like rear cross-traffic braking and blind-zone steering assist. Higher trims offered front-park assist, a surround-vision system, and rear pedestrian alert. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. While not yet rated by safety organizations, Honda aimed for top safety ratings.