Toyota Highlander

Current Model Year (2006)

Recent Changes

• For 2004 the Highlander received a new V6 borrowed from the Lexus RX330. The new 3.3L V6 makes 230 HP, 10 more than it's predecessor. The new 2.4L engine gets a 5 HP increase to 160. All 2004 Highlanders get four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes as well as a tire pressure monitoring system. A new option is the navigation system and the rear DVD entertainment system. There is also an available 3rd row seat and curtain airbags.
• For 2003 a full-size spare tire was standard.
• For 2002 Toyota added a standard rear-seat armrest, cabin air filtration, and a redesigned center console. Models were differentiated by Base and Limited.

Styles and Major Options

The Highlander comes in the Base, Limited, and Hybrid versions. The Base and Limited are available in 2WD and 4WD with the choice of a 4 cylinder or V6 engine. The Hybrid uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology coupled with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for optimum fuel economy. An optional touch-screen DVD navigation system is available on the Limited and Hybrid versions only. Also available are leather seats, power sunroof, rear seat entertainment, side curtain airbags, and heated front seats.

Gas Mileage

EPA estimates

• 4 Cylinder 2WD 22/27
• 4 Cylinder 4WD 21/25
• V6 2WD 19/25
• V6 4WD 18/24
• Hybrid 31/28

Safety

All Highlanders come with:

• vehicle stability control
• traction control
• anti-lock brake system
• driver and front passenger air bags
• front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones
• side-impact door beams
• child protector rear door locks
• 3-point shoulder belts in all seating positions
• child restraint system top tether anchors for all rear seating positions

Main Competitors

• Honda Pilot
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Nissan Murano
• Mazda CX-7

Hybrid Models

Toyota introduced the Highlander Hybrid in July 2005 as a 2006 model.

Awards

• MotorWeek's "Best Eco-Friendly" (2006) for Hybrid version
• IntelliChoice's "Best Overall Value" (2005)
• Consumer Reports' "Best Midsized SUV" (2002)
• J.D. Power and Associates' "Initial Quality Study Award" (2002)
• Car and Driver's "Best Large SUV" (2001)