We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This never influences our rankings.
Toilet Comparison

Kohler Highline Two-Piece Toilet vs Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet: Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side spec comparison, flush power data and real owner feedback.

Winner for most people

Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet

The Cimarron wins for most buyers due to its superior 1000g MaP score and larger 3.25-inch trapway, delivering more reliable waste clearance in a family setting.

Check Price on Amazon
SpecKohler HighlineKohler Cimarron
MaP Score800g1000g
GPF1.281.28
Flush SystemClass Five flushAquaPiston canister
Trapway2.375-inch fully glazed3.25-inch fully glazed
HeightComfort height (17 in)Comfort height (17 in)
Rough-In12-inch12-inch
Seat IncludedNoNo
WaterSenseYesYes
WarrantyLimited lifetimeLimited lifetime
Overall Edge→ Kohler Cimarron for stronger flush and larger trapway

Kohler Highline Two-Piece Toilet

MaP Score800g
GPF1.28
FlushClass Five
Trapway2.375 in
Height17 in

Pros

  • Excellent value for a Kohler toilet
  • Class Five flush is quiet and efficient
  • Comfort height seat height for easy use
  • WaterSense certified saves water

Cons

  • MaP score of 800g is lower than some competitors
  • No seat included adds to total cost

The Kohler Highline Two-Piece Toilet is a solid entry-level option from Kohler that balances price and performance. Its Class Five flush system uses a 2.375-inch fully glazed trapway to move waste efficiently, though its MaP score of 800g means it handles 800 grams of waste per flush. This is adequate for most households but may struggle with larger loads compared to higher-rated models. The 1.28 GPF meets WaterSense standards, so you save on water bills without sacrificing too much power.

Owners often praise the Highline for its quiet operation and easy installation, but some note that the flush can require a second attempt with heavy waste. Without a seat included, you will need to purchase one separately, which is common at this price point. Overall, it is a dependable choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a reputable brand.

Expert Take

The Highline is a great value pick for smaller households or guest bathrooms where flush power demands are lower.

Check Price on Amazon

Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet

MaP Score1000g
GPF1.28
FlushAquaPiston canister
Trapway3.25 in
Height17 in

Pros

  • 1000g MaP score handles heavy waste easily
  • AquaPiston canister flush is powerful and consistent
  • Large 3.25-inch trapway reduces clogs
  • WaterSense certified for water efficiency

Cons

  • Higher price than the Highline
  • No seat included

The Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet is designed for families and high-traffic bathrooms where flush reliability matters most. Its AquaPiston canister flush delivers a 1000g MaP score, meaning it can clear 1000 grams of waste in a single flush—significantly more than the Highline. The 3.25-inch fully glazed trapway is among the largest in its class, reducing the risk of clogs and ensuring smooth waste passage. Like the Highline, it uses 1.28 GPF and is WaterSense certified.

Users consistently report that the Cimarron handles large loads without double flushing, making it a top choice for busy households. The canister flush is also quieter than many traditional flapper systems. The main downside is the higher upfront cost and the lack of a seat, but the performance justifies the investment for those who need robust waste clearance.

Expert Take

The Cimarron is the clear performance leader here, with flush power that outperforms many toilets in its price range.

Check Price on Amazon

Which has better flush power?

The Kohler Cimarron has significantly better flush power. Its MaP score of 1000g means it can clear 1000 grams of waste per flush, while the Highline manages 800g. The MaP (Maximum Performance) score is an independent test that measures how much waste a toilet can flush in one go—higher grams mean fewer clogs and less need for double flushing. The Cimarron’s AquaPiston canister flush also provides a wider water distribution than the Highline’s Class Five system, and its 3.25-inch trapway is much larger than the Highline’s 2.375-inch trapway, further reducing clog risk. For heavy waste, the Cimarron is the clear winner.

Which saves more water?

Both toilets save the same amount of water. Each uses exactly 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) and is WaterSense certified, meaning they are at least 20% more efficient than standard 1.6 GPF models. Over a year, you can expect similar water savings from either model. The choice here does not affect your water bill—both are excellent for conservation. However, the Cimarron achieves its 1000g MaP score at the same 1.28 GPF, making it more efficient per gram of waste cleared. If you want the best water-to-performance ratio, the Cimarron edges ahead.

Which is better for a family bathroom?

The Kohler Cimarron is better for a family bathroom. Its 1000g MaP score and 3.25-inch trapway handle the higher waste loads typical of multiple users, reducing the chance of clogs and the need for plunging. The Highline’s 800g score is adequate for lighter use but may require double flushing with heavier waste. Both have comfort height (17 inches) and a 12-inch rough-in, so ergonomics are identical. For a busy family bathroom where reliability is key, the Cimarron’s extra flush power makes it the safer choice.

Choose Kohler Highline if...

  • You want a budget-friendly Kohler toilet with decent flush power
  • Your household has light to moderate waste loads
  • You prefer a quieter flush system like Class Five
  • You are outfitting a guest bathroom or small space

Choose Kohler Cimarron if...

  • You need maximum flush power for heavy waste
  • You have a large family or high-traffic bathroom
  • You want a larger trapway to prevent clogs
  • You value performance over upfront cost

Frequently Asked Questions

What does MaP score mean?

MaP (Maximum Performance) score measures the grams of waste a toilet can flush in one test. A higher score means better clog resistance and fewer double flushes.

Is the Kohler Highline a good toilet?

Yes, the Highline is a reliable value toilet with an 800g MaP score and quiet Class Five flush, ideal for light to moderate use.

Is the Kohler Cimarron worth the extra money?

For most families, yes. The 1000g MaP score and 3.25-inch trapway provide noticeably better performance and fewer clogs than the Highline.

Do these toilets come with a seat?

No, neither includes a seat. You will need to purchase one separately, which is common for many two-piece toilets.

What is the difference between Class Five and AquaPiston flush?

Class Five uses a siphon jet with a flapper, while AquaPiston uses a canister that opens from the center for more even water distribution and consistent power.

Are both toilets WaterSense certified?

Yes, both are WaterSense certified and use 1.28 GPF, meeting EPA efficiency standards.

Which toilet has a larger trapway?

The Kohler Cimarron has a 3.25-inch fully glazed trapway, compared to the Highline’s 2.375-inch trapway. The larger size reduces clog risk.

Can these toilets handle heavy waste?

The Cimarron with its 1000g MaP score handles heavy waste well. The Highline at 800g may need a second flush for large loads.

What is the warranty on these toilets?

Both come with a limited lifetime warranty from Kohler, covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Sources

  • MaP Flush Testing Program, map-testing.com
  • EPA WaterSense, epa.gov/watersense
  • Manufacturer published specifications

Verdict

For most households, the Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet is the better choice due to its superior 1000g MaP score and larger trapway, offering reliable flush power for family use. The Kohler Highline remains a solid budget option for guest bathrooms or light use, but the Cimarron’s performance justifies the higher cost.

How we rank & our data sources

We do not run physical lab tests. Rankings are built from published, verifiable data and real owner feedback, never paid placement.

Researched by BFT Editorial Team · Last updated June 30, 2026 · Our review method

B
Researched by BFT Editorial Team

The Best Flushing Toilets editorial team researches MaP flush scores, water efficiency data, and owner feedback to help you find the right toilet.

Updated June 2026 · Comparisons
Keep reading

Related guides

TOTO Drake vs Kohler Highline: Which Flushes Better?

Comparisons
4.6

Home / Comparisons / TOTO Drake vs Kohler Highline Toilet Comparison TOTO Drake Two-Piece Toilet vs Kohler Highline Two-Piece Toilet: Which Should…

Read the guide

TOTO Drake vs TOTO Drake II: Which TOTO Two-Piece is Worth It?

Comparisons
4.6

Home / Comparisons / TOTO Drake vs TOTO Drake II Toilet Comparison TOTO Drake Two-Piece Toilet vs TOTO Drake II Two-Piece Toilet:…

Read the guide

White vs Colored Toilet: Which Holds Its Value?

Comparisons
4.6

A data-driven look at resale impact, long-term availability, and which color choice makes more sense for your bathroom and your budget.

Read the guide