2019 Toyota Highlander vs. 2019 Kia Nero

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a family-friendly hybrid SUV that has morphed into a superb package of features, efficiency, and comfort. It is one of the most popular family cars for its versatility. Its safety record is impressive and it has an option for a strong V-6 engine for those who are very particular with notable power delivery.

While it is not as big as the Highlander, the 2019 Kia Nero is also credited for being a good family car. This small SUV offers plenty of standard features but will it be enough to challenge the Highlander?

Design & Style

The Highlander got a visual refresh last 2018. It resulted to a meaner-looking SUV with its protruding snout, razor-like grille, and a dark finish for the headlights and taillights. The rest of the exterior styling is muscular but well-proportioned. In spite of the masculine exterior, the cabin of the Highlander is surprisingly inviting. The controls are logically arranged in the wide interior. The overall finish is excellent even with the faux wood trim.

While the Highlander is not afraid to go for a bold styling, the Nero played safe with its restrained bends and creases. It skipped most of the styling that other companies have applied on new releases. It is straightforward but too plain both outside and inside the cabin.

Technology & Safety

The Highlander has always been tech-savvy. The infotainment system, particularly the navigation, is logical to use. Many of the features are accessible at the touch of a button. The layout is simple and it is nice to have controls both on the touchscreen and the steering wheel. The adaptive cruise control system is exceptionally good, along with other active safety features.

The Nero comes with Kia's Uvo navigation system. It is easy to use but it is starting to look old and desperately needs to be updated. There is also an adaptive cruise control but it is not as effective compared to that of the Highlander's.

Performance

The base model of the Highlander has a 185-hp engine under the hood but it offers an optional V-6 engine for up to 295 hp and 263 lb-ft. It has plenty of power that is commended for its progressive responsiveness. It can maintain a smooth and comfortable ride over long distances.

All models for the Nero come with a hybrid-electric powertrain for a combined output of 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. It feels unmotivated to drive and the braking performance is noticeably subpar. 

The Bottom Line

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is very superior compared to the 2019 Kia Nero. The Highlander has standard high-tech features, bold styling, and the strong engine performance that are notable as opposed to the poor performance and lousy styling of the Nero.

Ready to Schedule a Toyota Highlander Test Drive Today?

If you want to experience the top features offered by the 2019 Toyota Highlander, come for a test drive with us at Toyota of Stamford. Since our inception, we have been serving the needs of car buyers from Stamford, and other cities in Connecticut. You can drop by our showroom today or call us in advance to book your Toyota Highlander test drive appointment.