Do both the 2023 Toyota Highlander SUV and the 2023 Toyota Sienna minivan appeal to you? Are you trying to figure out which Toyota model is the better choice? The Highlander has multiple strengths that give it an edge. Here are four advantages of the 2023 Highlander over the 2023 Sienna.

2023 Toyota Highlander has better performance than the 2023 Toyota Sienna

The first advantage of the 2023 Toyota Highlander SUV over the 2023 Toyota Sienna minivan is the Highlander has better performance than the Sienna. It comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine, which doles out 265 horsepower. In comparison, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine in the Sienna produces only 245 horsepower.

Another performance advantage for the Highlander is it’s more maneuverable. It has a turning circle of 37.4 feet, compared to 38.3 feet for the Sienna. This greater maneuverability is helpful for things like driving in city traffic and moving through curves and around corners. It also makes it easier to back up and park the vehicle. 

2023 Highlander is better for off-road use than the 2023 Sienna

The second advantage of the 2023 Toyota Highlander over the 2023 Toyota Sienna is the Highlander is better for off-road use than the Sienna. Both SUVs offer a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. However, the Highlander has considerably higher ground clearance than the Sienna (up to 8.0 vs. 6.4 inches). 

High ground clearance is crucial for off-road use — for it enables a vehicle to more effectively and safely drive over rugged terrain without the underbody of the vehicle striking bumps or other obstacles on the ground. Also, the higher ride height provides greater visibility to see where you’re going when heading out in the wilderness. 

Toyota Highlander can tow more than the Sienna

The third advantage of the 2023 Highlander SUV over the 2023 Sienna minivan is the Highlander can tow more. It has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, compared to 3,500 pounds for the Sienna. With a 5,000-pound towing capacity, the Highlander can tow a variety of things. This includes a utility trailer, a pop-up camper, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis, a fishing boat, a rowboat, a small travel trailer, and motorcycles.

2023 Highlander is more reliable than the 2023 Sienna

The fourth advantage of the 2023 Highlander over the 2023 Sienna is the Highlander is more reliable. It earned a J.D. Power reliability rating of 82/100, compared to 74/100 for the Sienna. With the Highlander’s greater reliability, you can have the peace of mind that it will likely run strong for many miles and years — and not leave you stranded on the side of the road. Greater reliability also often translates to less maintenance and repairs. 

The 2023 Toyota Highlander SUV has advantages over the 2023 Toyota Sienna minivan for performance, off-road capabilities, towing, and reliability. When deciding between the two Toyota models, these are key advantages to consider.