2021 Audi Q3 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a bold design with its massive corporate grille, fitting well with its chunky styling that suggested utility and dynamic handling. Inside, the cabin mirrored this modern aesthetic, with a dash design that highlighted the center touchscreen. While initially a standout, the Q3's interior began to feel less unique as Volkswagen's designs caught up, though it remained refined and modern. The Q3 offered two trims: Premium and Premium Plus, with features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof standard on the Premium. The Premium Plus added conveniences like remote start and wireless charging.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid had a distinctive design that required an acclimation period. Its blunt nose and floating roof design gave it a unique look, though its styling could overwhelm with cartoonish flares. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, with pricing from $38,410 to $48,365. The Limited trim, evaluated in this review, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a surround-view camera system. Despite its price, some interior details felt cheap, though the two-tone cabin with leather upholstery in higher trims added an upscale touch.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Q3's performance was lively, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. Despite some turbo lag in the base engine, the Q3 delivered nimble handling and a comfortable ride, striking a balance between engagement and refinement.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid switched to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. With 243 hp, it offered adequate power but lacked excitement. The hybrid system used an E-CVT, and while efficient, the drivetrain sounded strained under hard acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride had unwanted body movement, though it handled well on smooth roads. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode were strengths, but overall, the driving experience was not enjoyable.

The Audi Q3 provided 48 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind them. While subpar for the class, it compensated with comfortable passenger space, offering ample headroom and legroom for four passengers on a road trip.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited offered roomy accommodations for front passengers, with a 10-way power seat for the driver. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow. The third row was uncomfortable, with tight headroom and limited legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 84.3 cubic feet maximum. However, storage solutions were less generous than previous models.

The Audi Q3 featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen with the MMI system, offering standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with a Bang & Olufsen audio system and Audi Virtual Cockpit, which replaced the instrument cluster with a customizable digital display.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The Limited trim offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided a clear view behind the vehicle.

The 2021 Audi Q3 included Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, with features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ in the Highlander Hybrid added intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard from the LE trim. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.