First produced in 2000 as a 2001 model, because enthusiasts didn’t expect much from this car. The mini SUV market was already dominated by Jeep, Ford, Dodge, and even Toyota’s own 4Runner, so we waited to see what the Japanese were up to this time. They didn’t let us down, and as their motto says ‘keep going’, they didn’t just move, they ran and caught up with everyone!
current highlander
Costing $28,240 – $37,195, the 2012 model is no different from the 2011, just a negligible increase in price. In fact, if I were to buy one, I’d go for the 2011 model, which averaged a score of 4.8 out of 5 versus the 2012 model’s 4.6 in consumer reviews. It’s bigger than previous Highlander models, entering the aggressive world of cars like the Jeep Traverse and leaving lesser folks whimpering on their cots. It’s a smooth ride, very graceful handling, and the fuel economy is still something to build on. As for the driving experience, don’t expect much from it. All Highlander models tend to lull you into simply setting cruise control and chatting with passengers; electric power steering tends to be on the light side, and the optional four-wheel drive system gives you the opportunity to traverse a muddy road, deep snow, or bumpy trails. The cabin is very quiet, with a nice mix of comfort, control and ride quality, although driver input is fairly small. The 2012 Highlander, a safety pioneer, was named the best by the IIHS, earning a whopping four-star rating in tough federal tests. This, among other features, took advantage of it to win as the best family SUV, a place it could cling to for a while. Other highlights include upgraded leather upholstery, keyless entry/start, tri-zone climate control, power passenger seat, and downhill assist control and hill start assist on AWD models. In fact, the Highlander, known as the Kluger in Japan and Australia, was Toyota’s best-selling crossover SUV before being overtaken in 2006 by the smaller RAV4.
Design
Three trim levels are offered for non-hybrid Toyota Highlander models: base, SE and Limited. Limited and base models were present when the car was initially introduced, but the sporty model was introduced in 2006 with a distinctively raging grille design. In Australia it was available in three guises: CV, CVX and Grande, while a limited edition CV Sport model was also launched in 2006. There was no hybrid model available in Australia, the only engine being the 3.3-litre 3MZ-FE. They all have cruise control, power functions and a third row of seats. A 3.5-inch multifunction display, satellite radio and USB port are added to the SE, while the Limited gets leather-trimmed power seats. Base and Limited models apply to Highlander Hybrid models, with the equipment more or less synchronized. A power sunroof, a navigation system, sound system upgrades, and a power liftgate are among the many options that can potentially increase the final price by thousands.
Inside
The Toyota Highlander crossover SUV can seat up to seven passengers, starting with 2004 models. The third-row seat is smaller than what you’ll find on most competitors, and it’s really only suitable for children, and the trunk space is very compromised. . However, the center section of the Highlander’s second-row seats folds into its own receptacle, leaving you with a pair of minivan-like captain’s chairs. Another added bonus is that these seats slide and recline. In the front there are small spaces conveniently located for family use and guests in the back have their own climate control, without having to bother you while you tune in to your favorite music. The second row is equipped with a removable center section that creates an alley from the front seats to the third-row seats, and it can also move 4.7 inches from side to side depending on where you want the extra room.
Motor
Available engines include a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder for the front-wheel drive SE model, and a more powerful V6 is optional on base and standard on Sport 4WD and Limited trims. The specifications are as follows:
2.7 liter 4 cylinder
187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm
186 pound-feet of torque at 4,100 rpm
EPA 20/25 city/highway fuel economy
3.0 liter V6
270 horsepower at 6200 rpm
248 pound-feet of torque at 4,700 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy 18/24 (FWD), 17/22 (4WD), 28/28 (hybrid)
No wonder this car won best family SUV, it’s rather surprising that it has held a high preference in the market since its inception, being Toyota’s crossover SUV that ever came close to the legacy Lexus LS 400. The Honda Pilot It is a quick bet on this, although for more power a Dodge Durango would do, but my opinion is no other. I think it’s about time I changed my low regard for Toyota.
