Kohler Highline vs Cimarron Toilets: A Detailed Comparison

Kohler is one of the most well-known and respected brands when it comes to bathroom fixtures and appliances. The company offers a wide range of toilets, including the Highline and Cimarron models.

For homeowners looking to install new toilets, the Kohler Highline and Cimarron represent two popular and comparable options to consider.

Key Similarities Between Kohler Highline vs Cimarron Toilets

Although there are some distinct differences between Kohler Highline vs Cimarron toilets outlined below, the two models share some important commonalities:

• Bowl Shape: Both the Highline and Cimarron feature an elongated bowl design that provides added room and comfort versus a round bowl shape.
• Flushing Technology: Kohler’s powerful and efficient Class Five flushing system comes standard in both the Highline and Cimarron models. This single flush system provides robust rinsing performance while conserving water.
• Comfort Height Design: The seating height of both the Highline and Cimarron is approximately 16-1/2 inches tall. This chair height improves ease of use.
• Quiet-Close Seat: A soft-close toilet seat is included with both toilet models to prevent loud slamming and enhance the bathroom experience.
• One-Year Limited Warranty: All Highline and Cimarron toilets come with a one-year limited warranty from Kohler covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Notable Differences Between the Kohler Highline and Kohler Cimarron Toilets

While the Highline and Cimarron share some core features, there are also several key differences shoppers should be aware of when deciding between these two popular Kohler toilets:

Design and Dimensions

• Exterior Design: The two-piece Highline toilet has a smoother, streamlined exterior design versus the more traditionally-styled Cimarron.
• Toilet Height: The Highline has a slightly taller overall toilet height at approximately 30-1/4 inches compared to the Cimarron at around 28-3/4 inches.
• Tank Dimensions: The Highline toilet tank has dimensions of about 28-1/4 x 17-3/4 x 30-1/4 inches (H x W x D), while the Cimarron tank is 28 x 17-1/8 x 28-3/4 inches.
• Bowl Dimensions: The Highline has a bowl with approximate interior dimensions of 6-3/4 x 9-1/4 inches (width x length), whereas the Cimarron is slightly more compact at 6-5/8 x 8-7/8 inches.

Features and Specs

• Gloss Finish: The Highline has a vitreous china gloss finish, while the Cimarron utilizes a less glossy sanagloss finish.
• Flush Valve Size: At 3-1/8 inches, the Highline has a larger canister flush valve versus the Cimarron’s 2-1/8 inch flush valve.
• Water Consumption: The Highline uses 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) which is EPA WaterSense certified. Cimarron toilets flush at 1.6 GPF.
• Trapway: The Cimarron has a 2-1/8 inch glazed trapway compared to the Highline’s 2-1/4 inch trapway.
• Right Height Toilet: Kohler offers a 16-1/2 inch comfort height Cimarron model, but there is no right height Highline option currently available.
• Colors: Highline toilets come in 6 different color options, while the Cimarron is only available in white.
• Price: MSRP for the Highline starts around $415, while the Cimarron retails for approximately $305. Highline is the more premium model.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Pros and Cons of Kohler Highline Toilets

Pros

• Sleek, stylish appearance fits with most bathroom designs
• Larger flush valve provides substantial rinsing power
• Water-conserving 1.28 GPF flush capacity
• WaterSense certification saves water and money
• Chair-height and elongated bowl for comfort and convenience
• Reduced backtracking with sanitary bulkhead design
• Quiet-close seat prevents annoying slamming noise
• Glossy finish resists staining, fading, and debris buildup
• Range of color options to complement bathroom style
• Made in the USA

Cons

• More expensive than some other Kohler models
• Lacks right height seating option
• Exposed trapway under bowl may require cleaning
• Limited one-year warranty period

Pros and Cons of Kohler Cimarron Toilets

Pros

• Traditional design available at a lower price point
• Compact tank size fits in tight spaces
• Appropriate height meets ADA accessibility guidelines
• Durable sanagloss toilet finish
• Right height model promotes ease of use
• Uses 20% less water than typical 1.6 GPF toilet
• AquaPiston canister allows strong siphon during flushing
• Three bolt installation is straightforward
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Less stylish and boxy exterior design
• Less powerful 2-1/8″ flush valve
• Lacks comfort height standard model
• Fewer color choices
• Exposed trapway under bowl needs occasional cleaning
• Limited one-year warranty

Read More: American Standard Cadet 3 vs Champion 4 Toilets Which Is Better?

Final Verdict: Kohler Highline vs Cimarron

For shoppers seeking a new Kohler toilet for their home, both the Highline and Cimarron represent quality options that come backed by Kohler’s strong reputation and include excellent flush performance. However, there are some clear differences between the models.

The Highline is the more premium design with its streamlined styling, larger flush valve, lower water usage, and range of color choices. Yet it comes at a higher price.

The Cimarron provides a competitively priced, no-frills efficient flushing toilet. Its lower height makes meeting accessibility standards easier, and the right height model offers chair height seating comfort.

Ultimately, the Kohler Highline is the way to go for homeowners who want a stylish, water-saving toilet and don’t mind paying extra for those features.

However, the Cimarron is ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those seeking an ADA compliant toilet for accessibility needs. Both are great choices that exemplify Kohler’s toilet and plumbing expertise.

FAQs:

Q1: What is the main difference in design between the Kohler Highline and Cimarron toilets?

A1: The main design difference is that the Highline has a smoother, more streamlined exterior while the Cimarron has a more traditional boxy shape. The Highline is considered a more stylish, contemporary toilet.

Q2: Which uses less water per flush, Kohler Highline or Cimarron?

A2: The Kohler Highline uses only 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) and has earned EPA WaterSense certification. The Cimarron uses slightly more water at 1.6 GPF.

Q3: Is the Kohler Highline taller than the Cimarron model?

A3: Yes, the overall toilet height of the Highline is about 30-1/4 inches compared to 28-3/4 inches for the standard Cimarron model. However, Kohler does offer a comfort height Cimarron at 16-1/2 inches.

Q4: How many color options are available for the Highline versus Cimarron?

A4: The Kohler Highline is available in 6 different color options including white, biscuit, almond, dune, sandbar, and black. The Cimarron only comes in white.

Q5: Which Kohler model is less expensive, the Highline or Cimarron?

A5: Generally speaking, the Kohler Cimarron carries a lower list price and MSRP versus the Highline. The Cimarron retails for around $305, while the Highline starts around $415. So the Cimarron is the more affordably priced model.

Read Next: American Standard vs Kohler Toilets: Which Toilet Brand is Better?