2006 Toyota Matrix vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 750 kg more than 2006 Toyota Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Toyota Matrix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Toyota Matrix | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4796 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
