2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 227 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
