2006 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Toyota Highlander | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
