Test drive Toyota Highlander: when "third" is not superfluous - part 5

 A couple of photos of the Elegance version: the general view is the same, the only differences are in details - rims, headlight filling, there is no chrome insert in front. In the cabin, the differences are more noticeable: the seat trim is simpler, there is a lack of wood-like decor, an ordinary roof without a "panorama". It's a strange feeling: it seems that even the Elegance starter configuration has everything for a normal life on board - but the competitors for $ 50 thousand look better ...

 There are two main rivals and they have long been known: the Infiniti QX60 and the Mazda CX-9. Both cars cost around $ 50K, with better trim and feel than Toyota's.

 The Infiniti crossover makes a frank bet on ride comfort, offers a hybrid (albeit not particularly economical), although the age of the model is already noticeable in the details - for example, the screen in the dashboard or the lack of data projection on the windshield. In addition, infiniti's standard price is higher than Toyota's. However, cars of 2019, which are sold at promotional prices, are already quite comparable (I spoke in detail in an article about the hybrid QX60).

 The variant from Mazda will appeal to fans of a dynamic drive, plus during the update (MG 2020) the car gained a number of minor improvements. Although, for example, a panoramic roof or an all-round view cannot be obtained here for any money - we simply do not have a complete set with such equipment. It turns out that the higher price tag of the Toyota Highlander is due to the package, which is superior to the Mazda CX-9.

 The main competitors are priced at about $ 50 thousand and at the same time are perceived better in interior trim than the Highlander for $ 60 thousand. Although the equipment of the Highlander is comparable or better, the brand's liquidity in resale is high, and in terms of suspension comfort it is now among the leaders. In a word, the Toyota Highlander crossover, although it looks a little overvalued, is now a confident "player" in its class.