2026 Lexus RX 350 Vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander
2026 Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander at a Glance
- The Lexus RX 350 has a standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 275 horsepower. The Toyota Highlander offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged motor that puts out less muscle. Fuel efficiency is also higher in the Lexus SUV.
- The Highlander features a larger cabin with three rows of seating and 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The Lexus RX 350 has a two-row interior and a maximum cargo capacity of 46.2 cubic feet. However, the RX 350 boasts more standard cargo space.
- Amenities are more impressive in the Lexus RX 350, as it comes standard with equipment like a 9.8-inch touchscreen and Proactive Driving Assist. Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander has a standard 8-inch touchscreen and doesn't offer Proactive Driving Assist in any trim.
- Speaking of trims, the 2026 RX 350 is offered in 11 variants, while the 2026 Highlander is available in only four. Hybrid editions are available for both SUVs.
If you've been looking for a Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander comparison to help you choose your next midsize SUV, you've found it. While the RX 350 is a sleek vehicle, it isn't the only option on the market. That's why we're also looking at the Highlander – a larger yet less luxurious competitor.
Both the 2026 Lexus RX 350 and the 2026 Toyota Highlander have distinct strengths. While they may not be exactly alike, they often draw comparisons due to their blend of comfort and practicality. Take a look at the results of our Arrowhead Lexus comparison as we review their specs, performance, and features.
Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander Specs
To provide a foundation for both SUVs, below is a chart detailing spec highlights for the base trims.
| Vehicle Details | 2026 Lexus RX 350 FWD | 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain Specs | ||
| Engine | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 275 | 265 |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Curb Weight | 4,155 lbs | 4,376 lbs |
| MPG Overview | ||
| EPA-Est. City MPG | 221 | 212 |
| EPA-Est. Highway MPG | 291 | 282 |
| EPA-Est. Combined MPG | 251 | 242 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.8 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Max Cargo Space | ||
| Cargo Volume (Total) | 46.2 cu ft (rear row folded) | 84.3 cu ft (rear rows folded) |
| Passenger Space | ||
| 1st-Row Headroom | 38.6-39.5 in | 39.6 in |
| 2nd-Row Headroom | 38.1-38.5 in | 39.4 in |
| 1st-Row Legroom | 41.1 in | 42 in |
| 2nd-Row Legroom | 37.4 in | 38.7 in |
| 1st-Row Hip Room | 56.7 in | 57.2 in |
| 2nd-Row Hip Room | 56 in | 57 in |
| 1st-Row Shoulder Room | 58.1 in | 59 in |
| 2nd-Row Shoulder Room | 56.5 in | 58.4 in |
Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander: Power and Gas Mileage
As we can see right off the bat, the 2026 Lexus RX 350 has a performance advantage over the 2026 Toyota Highlander. Its base 2.4-liter turbocharged engine makes a potent 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the Highlander engine tops out at 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
MPG is a win for the Lexus RX 350, too, earning up to an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 The Toyota Highlander can only muster up a maximum 21/28/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
Both SUVs feature a four-setting Drive Mode Select function, but only the RX 350 offers standard race-inspired paddle shifters. Plus, you can get a performance boost if you choose the RX 350 F SPORT Handling trim, which boasts an F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, F SPORT-tuned lateral performance dampers for the front and rear, and six-piston aluminum front brake calipers. Only a sport-tuned suspension is available in the Highlander.
Furthermore, the Lexus RX 350 offers the choice between FWD and AWD, whereas the Toyota Highlander is standard with AWD.
Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander Cargo Space, Comfort, and Tech
The Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Highlander have notable differences regarding cargo space and features. To start, the two-row RX 350 boasts more standard cargo volume with 29.6 cubic feet vs. 16 cubic feet in the three-row Highlander. The Toyota SUV sacrifices a lot of standard cargo capacity for that extra row of seating. For maximum values, the Highlander comes out on top, as it has 84.3 cubic feet behind the front row. The RX 350, meanwhile, offers 46.2 cubic feet of cargo space at its maximum.
While the Highlander deserves credit for its spacious cabin and overall practicality – especially for those looking for a three-row SUV – the RX 350 has serious advantages regarding interior amenities.
For instance, the Lexus RX 350 comes standard with a 9.8-inch touchscreen, ambient lighting, a 12-speaker audio system, a 12.3-inch multi-information display, and NuLuxe upholstery. By contrast, the Toyota Highlander features a smaller 8-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, a 7-inch multi-information display, and SofTex upholstery as standard equipment. Ambient lighting and an audio system with more speakers (11 total) are available, as is a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. However, the RX 350 is also available with a 14-inch touchscreen and a 21-speaker audio system.
Of course, many elements are shared between the 2026 Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander. They both come equipped with wireless charging, push-button start, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel, for example.
To learn more about the cabin of the Lexus model, check out our deep dive into the Lexus RX 350 interior.
Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander Safety Features
Safety is a major consideration for modern SUVs, and both the Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Highlander are designed with it in mind. In fact, the two SUVs have similar safety technology packages. Standard amenities they share include the following, plus more:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
The Lexus RX 350 also offers a slew of additional standard features: Curve Speed Management, Proactive Driving Assist, Intersection Support, and Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking. These are not available at all in the Highlander; the only similar system is Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking.
Lexus RX 350 and Toyota Highlander Trim Options
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 and 2026 Toyota Highlander are available in numerous trim options, but the broader menu of the RX 350 arguably better serves a variety of driver tastes and preferences.
Lexus RX Trim Levels
- RX 350 FWD
- RX 350 AWD
- RX 350 Premium FWD
- RX 350 Premium AWD
- RX 350 Premium+ FWD
- RX 350 Premium+ AWD
- RX 350 Luxury FWD
- RX 350 Luxury AWD
- RX 350 F SPORT Design FWD
- RX 350 F SPORT Design AWD
- RX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD
Toyota Highlander Trim Levels
- Highlander XLE
- Highlander XSE
- Highlander Limited
- Highlander Platinum
There are also hybrid variants of both models available, as seen below.
Lexus RX 350 Hybrid Trims
- RX 350h AWD
- RX 350h Premium AWD
- RX 350h Premium+ AWD
- RX 350h Luxury AWD
- RX 350h F SPORT Design AWD
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Trims
- Highlander Hybrid XLE
- Highlander Hybrid Limited
- Highlander Hybrid Platinum
Test-Drive the 2026 Lexus RX 350
Come visit us at Arrowhead Lexus to explore Lexus RX 350 lease deals and finance offers. Our team can discuss this Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander comparison in more detail and take you on a full RX 350 tour. If you're ready to get behind the wheel, stop by for a test drive soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lexus RX 350 AWD?
The Lexus RX 350 offers both FWD and AWD. Availability can depend on the trim level. FWD results in better fuel efficiency, while AWD allows for enhanced handling and traction. Try out both options at our Lexus dealership.
What safety features does the Lexus RX 350 offer?
The new Lexus RX 350 comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, an innovative collection of technologies to help drivers stay safe and confident:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
Is the Lexus RX 350 a hybrid?
The new Lexus RX 350 is not a hybrid. It is a gasoline-powered SUV with a 275-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, the RX 350h represents the hybrid variant of the model, featuring a 246-net-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine.
Does the Lexus RX 350 require premium gas?
The Lexus RX 350 requires premium unleaded gasoline with a 91-octane rating or higher. This is necessary for optimum, healthy engine performance and fuel efficiency. Using a lower octane can compromise this SUV's performance and reliability.
What engine does the Lexus RX 350 have?
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350 hybrid, or the RX 350h, features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine with 246 net horsepower.
Additional Lexus Resources
1EPA-estimated MPG ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
2Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See fueleconomy.gov.
