Is the Lexus RX 350 the same as the Toyota Highlander? Not exactly, while both SUVs share some similarities, they cater to different needs and preferences, and you can find a wide range of options and services at millertoyota.net. The Toyota Highlander, available at Miller Toyota in Boise, Idaho, offers more space and affordability, while the Lexus RX 350 provides a more luxurious experience. Explore the differences in price points, trim levels, and hybrid options, and consider factors such as cargo space, seating capacity, and fuel efficiency to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle, and learn about maintenance schedules, genuine parts, and reliable service options.
1. Understanding the Core Question: Are They the Same?
The Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Highlander share a parent company, Toyota, but are distinct vehicles designed for different consumer needs. The Highlander is a more family-oriented SUV, while the RX 350 focuses on luxury and comfort.
While both vehicles come from the same parent company, Toyota, they cater to distinct market segments with different priorities.
2. Delving into the Details: Key Differences
Here’s a comprehensive comparison to highlight the key distinctions between the Lexus RX 350 and the Toyota Highlander:
| Feature | Toyota Highlander | Lexus RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Families needing space and practicality | Individuals prioritizing luxury and comfort |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 passengers | Up to 7 passengers (in RX 350L) |
| Cargo Space | More cargo room | Less cargo room |
| Engine Options | Multiple engine choices, including a four-cylinder | Primarily a V6 engine |
| Interior Design | Practical and durable | Luxurious and refined |
| Ride Comfort | Comfortable but geared towards everyday use | More refined and smoother ride |
| Features | Focus on value and essential features | Emphasis on premium features and advanced technology |
| Towing Capacity | Generally higher towing capacity | Lower towing capacity |
3. Pricing and Trim Levels: What Fits Your Budget?
The Toyota Highlander generally offers a wider range of trims and a lower starting price compared to the Lexus RX 350. According to customer satisfaction surveys in Boise, Idaho, in July 2025, people are more likely to save money when choosing a Toyota.
3.1. Toyota Highlander Trims and Pricing
The Highlander comes in several trims, from the base LE to the luxurious Platinum, offering options for various budgets and needs. You can find current pricing and trim details at millertoyota.net.
3.2. Lexus RX 350 Trims and Pricing
The RX 350 typically has fewer trim levels, focusing on luxury features. The F Sport trim adds sporty styling and performance enhancements.
4. Performance and Handling: How Do They Drive?
Both the Highlander and RX 350 offer smooth and capable performance, but their driving dynamics differ slightly.
4.1. Toyota Highlander Performance
The Highlander provides a comfortable ride, suitable for daily commutes and family road trips. Its V6 engine offers ample power for most driving situations.
4.2. Lexus RX 350 Performance
The RX 350 emphasizes a more refined driving experience, with a focus on comfort and quietness. The F Sport trim offers a slightly sportier suspension and handling.
5. Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency: What’s Under the Hood?
Both SUVs primarily use a V6 engine, but the Highlander offers a four-cylinder option for increased fuel efficiency.
5.1. Toyota Highlander Engine Options
The Highlander offers a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. According to fueleconomy.gov, the V6 is the popular choice for its balance of power and efficiency.
5.2. Lexus RX 350 Engine Options
The RX 350 primarily features a 3.5-liter V6 engine. According to Lexus Newsroom, this engine is known for its smooth power delivery and reliability.
6. Hybrid Options: Which is More Efficient?
Both the Highlander and RX 350 offer hybrid versions, providing improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
6.1. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Highlander Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy and comes in multiple trim levels. The official Toyota website states that the Highlander Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class.
6.2. Lexus RX 450h (Hybrid)
The RX 450h delivers a luxurious hybrid experience with impressive fuel efficiency. Lexus Drivers states that the RX 450h combines luxury with eco-friendliness.
7. Interior Comfort and Features: What’s Inside?
The interiors of the Highlander and RX 350 reflect their target audiences, with the Highlander focusing on practicality and the RX 350 emphasizing luxury.
7.1. Toyota Highlander Interior
The Highlander offers a spacious and functional interior with comfortable seating and user-friendly technology. According to caranddriver.com, the Highlander’s interior is designed for family use.
7.2. Lexus RX 350 Interior
The RX 350 boasts a luxurious interior with premium materials, elegant design, and advanced features. Lexus USA highlights the RX 350’s attention to detail and craftsmanship.
8. Seating Capacity and Cargo Space: How Much Room Do You Need?
The Highlander excels in seating capacity and cargo space, making it ideal for larger families and those needing to haul more gear.
8.1. Toyota Highlander Seating and Cargo
The Highlander can seat up to eight passengers and offers ample cargo space behind the third row. Toyota Newsroom emphasizes the Highlander’s versatility for passengers and cargo.
8.2. Lexus RX 350 Seating and Cargo
The RX 350 (including the RX 350L) seats up to seven passengers, with less cargo space compared to the Highlander. Lexus Drivers notes that the RX 350 focuses on passenger comfort rather than maximum cargo capacity.
9. Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected
Both SUVs offer modern technology and infotainment features, but the Lexus RX 350 generally provides more advanced options.
9.1. Toyota Highlander Technology
The Highlander includes a user-friendly infotainment system with available features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota official website confirms that the Highlander offers seamless smartphone integration.
9.2. Lexus RX 350 Technology
The RX 350 offers a more sophisticated infotainment system with features like a larger touchscreen display and a premium sound system. The Lexus website highlights the RX 350’s advanced technology features.
10. Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Family
Both the Highlander and RX 350 prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
10.1. Toyota Highlander Safety
The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, including features like pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The IIHS gave the Highlander a “Top Safety Pick+” rating.
10.2. Lexus RX 350 Safety
The RX 350 includes Lexus Safety System+, featuring similar technologies to Toyota Safety Sense, along with additional available safety features. According to NHTSA, the RX 350 earns high safety ratings.
11. Reliability and Maintenance: Long-Term Ownership
Both Toyota and Lexus are known for their reliability, but maintenance costs may differ slightly.
11.1. Toyota Highlander Reliability
The Highlander has a strong reputation for reliability, with many owners reporting minimal issues. Consumer Reports consistently gives the Highlander high reliability scores.
11.2. Lexus RX 350 Reliability
The RX 350 also enjoys excellent reliability ratings, but its luxury features may lead to slightly higher maintenance costs. J.D. Power awards the RX 350 for its dependability.
12. Towing Capacity: Can You Haul It?
If towing is a priority, the Toyota Highlander generally offers a higher towing capacity than the Lexus RX 350.
12.1. Toyota Highlander Towing
The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Toyota specifications confirm the Highlander’s towing capabilities.
12.2. Lexus RX 350 Towing
The RX 350 typically has a lower towing capacity, around 3,500 pounds. Lexus manuals specify the RX 350’s towing limits.
13. Styling and Design: Which Look Appeals to You?
The Highlander and RX 350 have distinct styling cues, with the Highlander exhibiting a more rugged appearance and the RX 350 showcasing a more elegant design.
13.1. Toyota Highlander Styling
The Highlander features a bold and boxy design, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional SUV look. Toyota official photos highlight the Highlander’s rugged styling.
13.2. Lexus RX 350 Styling
The RX 350 boasts a sleek and modern design with a distinctive spindle grille, attracting buyers who appreciate a more luxurious aesthetic. Lexus design showcases the RX 350’s sophisticated styling.
14. The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX 350 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
14.1. Choose the Toyota Highlander If:
- You need maximum seating capacity and cargo space.
- You prioritize affordability and value.
- You prefer a more rugged and traditional SUV design.
- You need a higher towing capacity.
- You want a wide range of trim levels and options.
14.2. Choose the Lexus RX 350 If:
- You prioritize luxury, comfort, and refinement.
- You appreciate advanced technology and premium features.
- You prefer a more elegant and modern design.
- Seating capacity and cargo space are not your primary concerns.
15. Understanding Your Needs: Search Intent
To determine which SUV aligns with your needs, consider these five key search intents:
- Comparison: “Toyota Highlander vs Lexus RX 350”: Aiming to compare the specifications and features of both models to decide which one suits their requirements.
- Pricing: “Lexus RX 350 price vs Toyota Highlander price”: Interested in understanding the price differences between the two models and what they can afford.
- Features: “Lexus RX 350 features vs Toyota Highlander features”: Looking for a detailed breakdown of the features offered by each model, focusing on technology, safety, and comfort.
- Reviews: “Lexus RX 350 reviews vs Toyota Highlander reviews”: Seeking feedback from other owners and experts to get a sense of the real-world performance and reliability of each vehicle.
- Dealership: “Toyota Highlander dealership Boise” or “Lexus RX 350 dealership Boise”: Searching for local dealerships that offer these models, intending to visit or contact them for more information and possibly make a purchase.
16. Addressing Customer Challenges at Miller Toyota
Miller Toyota in Boise understands the challenges customers face when choosing the right vehicle. We offer solutions to help you make an informed decision:
16.1. Challenges Faced by Customers:
- Finding a reputable Toyota dealership in Boise with competitive pricing.
- Selecting a Toyota model that fits their needs and budget.
- Understanding available promotions and financing options.
- Scheduling service appointments conveniently.
- Locating genuine Toyota parts quickly.
- Receiving professional and attentive advice from dealership staff.
16.2. How Miller Toyota Addresses These Challenges:
- Providing detailed information on the latest Toyota models (specifications, images, videos, prices) on millertoyota.net.
- Showcasing a list of pre-owned Toyota vehicles available at the dealership.
- Offering online comparison tools and configuration options.
- Providing comprehensive information on Toyota maintenance and repair services.
- Allowing customers to schedule service appointments online.
- Offering a catalog of genuine Toyota parts with online ordering support.
- Providing expert advice on financing and insurance options.
- Displaying contact information and the address of Miller Toyota in Boise clearly: Address: 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States. Phone: +1 (208) 376-8888.
17. Benefits of Choosing Miller Toyota
Choosing Miller Toyota in Boise offers numerous advantages:
17.1. Extensive Selection:
We boast a wide selection of new and used Toyota vehicles, ensuring you find the perfect match for your needs.
17.2. Competitive Pricing:
We offer competitive pricing and financing options to make your dream car a reality.
17.3. Expert Service:
Our certified technicians provide top-notch maintenance and repair services to keep your Toyota running smoothly.
17.4. Genuine Parts:
We use only genuine Toyota parts to ensure the quality and longevity of your vehicle.
17.5. Customer Satisfaction:
We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and building lasting relationships.
18. Call to Action
Ready to explore your options? Visit millertoyota.net today to browse our inventory, schedule a test drive, and experience the Miller Toyota difference. Contact us to learn more about current promotions and financing options. Let us help you find the perfect Toyota to fit your lifestyle and budget.
19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the differences between the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Highlander:
19.1. Is the Lexus RX 350 more luxurious than the Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the Lexus RX 350 is generally considered more luxurious than the Toyota Highlander, with a higher-end interior and more premium features.
19.2. Which SUV offers more cargo space, the RX 350 or the Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander offers significantly more cargo space than the Lexus RX 350.
19.3. Does the Toyota Highlander have a third row?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander comes standard with a third row, offering seating for up to eight passengers.
19.4. Is the Lexus RX 350 available as a hybrid?
Yes, the Lexus RX 450h is the hybrid version of the RX 350.
19.5. Which SUV is better for families, the Highlander or the RX 350?
The Toyota Highlander is generally better suited for families due to its larger size, higher seating capacity, and greater cargo space.
19.6. What are the main differences in safety features between the two models?
Both models offer comprehensive safety features, but the specific technologies and availability may vary slightly between trim levels.
19.7. How do the fuel economy ratings compare between the Highlander and RX 350?
Fuel economy ratings are similar between the two models, but the Highlander offers a four-cylinder engine option for potentially better fuel efficiency.
19.8. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
The Toyota Highlander typically has a higher towing capacity than the Lexus RX 350.
19.9. What is the starting price difference between the two SUVs?
The Toyota Highlander generally has a lower starting price than the Lexus RX 350.
19.10. Are maintenance costs higher for the Lexus RX 350 compared to the Toyota Highlander?
Maintenance costs may be slightly higher for the Lexus RX 350 due to its luxury features and components.
