In recent years, the demand for urban outings or weekend outdoor driving for Chinese families has become more prominent. The Toyota Highlander from GAC is a typical representative in the mid-size SUV market of 250,000-300,000 yuan (41440$). Speaking of the Highlander, we have to mention the recently launched Nissan Terra. The Terra has five models with prices ranging from 239,800 to 301,800 yuan (41690$). Now, let’s analyze the Nissan Terra and GAC Toyota Highlander from various aspects.
How is the product strength of the two cars? In terms of size, the length, width, and height of the Land Cruiser are 5130/1981/1767mm, with a wheelbase of 2900mm. The length, width, and height of the Highlander are 4965/1930/1750mm. In terms of model parameters, the Land Cruiser has the advantage. As a SUV for family use, the Land Cruiser offers a six-seat version and a seven-seat version. The six-seat version has second-row seats with headrests that can move forward and backward, adjust the seat back angle, providing maximum comfort for every passenger. Compared to the seven-seat model, the six-seat Land Cruiser undoubtedly offers a more comfortable riding experience. The Highlander is more conventional, offering both a five-seat version and a seven-seat version.
In terms of space, the legroom and headroom in the back row are good, with a central aisle and “one-touch access” feature for easy entry into the third row. The space in the first two rows of the Highlander is also good, with the third row feeling a bit cramped, but it is suitable for short-term emergency use.
From a configuration perspective, for example, the 7-seater 4WD Intelligent Driving Edition of the Land Rover Discovery with a price of 279,800 yuan (38650$) and the 7-seater 2.5L 4WD Luxury Edition of the Toyota Highlander with a price of 325,800 yuan (45010$), the Discovery has built-in driving recorder, rear collision warning, low-speed driving warning, front axle limited slip differential, front and rear parking radar, 360-degree panoramic image, lane keeping assist, front perception camera, 5 ultrasonic radars, 10 millimeter wave radars, mobile phone interconnection, active noise reduction, electronic gear lever, leather seats, front soundproof glass, car intelligent system, car KTV, etc. The Highlander, on the other hand, has induction trunk, LED front fog lights, rear privacy glass, and HUD head-up display. However, currently the Highlander has a discount of about 30,000-50,000 yuan (6910$) in the terminal market, so the final landing price will be lower. But in comparison, the starting price of the Highlander is 268,800 yuan (37130$), with a terminal discount of around 30,000 yuan (4140$), slightly higher than the Discovery, and basically just buying a shell with the most basic configuration.
What are the differences in power between the two cars? The Dongfeng Nissan Terra is equipped with a 2.0T variable compression ratio engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission, with a maximum horsepower of 252 and peak torque of 376 Nm. The engine has been previously used in the Infiniti QX60, so it is stable and smooth, with excellent performance. The ZF 9-speed automatic transmission is also familiar for its good response and smooth shifting. The GAC Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and an electric motor in a hybrid system, with a combined maximum horsepower of 248 and peak torque of 380 Nm. This powertrain focuses on low-speed power output, making city driving smooth. However, for consumers who enjoy aggressive acceleration and sharp turns, the lack of a push-back feeling may be considered a drawback. The biggest difference between the two models lies in the different powertrain styles of the 2.0T and 2.5L hybrid systems. In terms of fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration, the Highlander’s intelligent hybrid system has the advantage. However, in the mid to high-speed range, the Terra’s power reserve and response will be more outstanding. If you have a lot of driving needs, then the Terra is a good choice.
How to choose between Nissan Terra and Toyota Highlander? Which one to choose? Nissan Terra has advantages in body size and space performance, and the rich intelligent technology configuration shows sincerity. Guangzhou Toyota Highlander is also an excellent model, with stable sales and good quality reputation over the past decade. Overall, for daily commuting within 100 kilometers, the performance of both is similar, and fuel consumption is not much different. If it is a long-distance self-driving scenario with frequent trips with multiple people, considering power, overall space, and seating comfort, I would lean more towards Nissan Terra. How would you choose?