Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs INFINITI QX60

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a striking new exterior with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and a floating roof effect enhanced by blacked-out pillars. The interior was equally impressive, featuring a spacious and open feel with quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The craftsmanship and build quality were evident, with the QX60 models originating from the Nissan plant in Smyrna, Tennessee.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid maintained its previous design with minimal changes, introducing a new Cypress Green paint colour. The exterior was characterized by exaggerated forms, including scowling headlights and flared rear fenders. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured a super-sized cabin with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and large climate control knobs. However, the interior design was criticized for its mismatched textures and lack of quality, with controls and storage areas feeling inexpensive and unlined.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 offered a superior driving experience with its nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, it delivered 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The QX60's suspension was reworked for a smooth and serene ride, with MacPherson struts up front and an independent multilink setup in the rear. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 10.8 combined.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. While it offered standard AWD and a Predictive Efficient Drive system, the Highlander Hybrid struggled with high-speed passing power and towing capacity. Fuel economy was a focus, with an expected average of 6.7 L/100 km, though it returned 8.2 L/100 km during testing. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension tuning and a groaning CVT.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 provided ample interior space, with a three-row configuration and flexible seating arrangements. The second-row seats could slide fore and aft, and the third row offered comfortable seating for adults. Cargo capacity ranged from 411 litres behind the third row to 2,135 litres with all seats folded. The QX60 also had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim level. However, the third-row seat was best suited for occasional use. The interior featured three-zone automatic climate control and heated seats, with power-adjustable front seats. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the second-row seats folded. The centre armrest storage console was criticized for its complex design.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 boasted impressive technology, including a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.8-inch head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The Sensory and Autograph models came with a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system.

For 2023, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims receiving a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected service plans. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and ProPilot Assist. While crash-test ratings were not available, the previous generation received high marks from safety organizations.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with higher trims gaining parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.