The Toyota Highlander has earned a reputation as one of the most dependable midsize SUVs in the United States. Known for its comfortable interior, strong performance, and advanced technology, it appeals to families and daily commuters alike. Whether you need a spacious vehicle for road trips or a reliable SUV for city driving, the Highlander delivers. With its combination of efficiency, safety, and convenience, it continues to be a top choice for SUV buyers.
A Comfortable and Spacious Interior
One of the standout features of the Toyota Highlander is its well-designed interior. It offers three rows of seating, providing space for up to eight passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, using high-quality materials that make long drives more enjoyable.
For added convenience, the Highlander includes features like available heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and tri-zone automatic climate control. These amenities create a pleasant atmosphere for both drivers and passengers. Additionally, the second and third rows offer ample legroom, making it a great choice for families who need extra space.
Cargo capacity is another strong point. The Highlander provides plenty of storage behind the third row, which expands significantly when the seats are folded down. This makes it easy to carry groceries, luggage, or larger items when needed.
Powerful Performance for Everyday Driving
The Toyota Highlander offers a smooth yet powerful driving experience. The standard model comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a balanced mix of power and fuel efficiency. For those looking for better gas mileage, the hybrid version pairs a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, offering impressive fuel savings without sacrificing performance.
Both versions of the Highlander provide responsive handling and a comfortable ride. The SUV’s suspension system absorbs road imperfections, making it a great option for both city and highway driving. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those who need extra traction in challenging road conditions.
The Highlander also has a strong towing capacity. The gas model can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or small campers. The hybrid model, while slightly lower in towing capability, still provides enough strength for lighter loads.
Advanced Technology for a Connected Drive
Toyota has equipped the Highlander with a wide range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. The standard infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium sound system for entertainment on the go.
Higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital rearview mirror, and an upgraded JBL sound system. These features provide added convenience, making it easy to navigate, stream music, or stay connected with hands-free calling.
For added safety, the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite comes standard. This includes advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and road sign recognition. These technologies help drivers stay aware of their surroundings and reduce the risk of accidents.
Fuel Efficiency That Saves Money
Fuel economy is an important factor for many SUV buyers, and the Highlander delivers strong results. The turbocharged gas engine provides an estimated 25 miles per gallon combined, which is competitive for its class. However, those looking for the best fuel savings should consider the hybrid model, which achieves up to 36 miles per gallon combined.
The Highlander Hybrid is ideal for drivers who want to reduce fuel costs without giving up the benefits of an SUV. It uses Toyota’s proven hybrid system, which seamlessly switches between electric and gas power to maximize efficiency. This makes it an excellent option for long commutes or family road trips.
A Reliable SUV for Long-Term Ownership
Toyota’s reputation for reliability is one of the biggest reasons why many buyers choose the Highlander. Known for its durability and long lifespan, this SUV consistently ranks high in dependability studies. With proper maintenance, the Highlander can last well beyond 200,000 miles, making it a great investment for those seeking a long-term vehicle.
Toyota also offers a competitive warranty package, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid models come with additional coverage for the battery and hybrid components, ensuring long-term peace of mind.
A Smart Choice for Families and Adventurers
The Toyota Highlander stands out as a reliable, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV. With its spacious interior, strong performance, and advanced technology, it meets the needs of both families and solo drivers.
The fuel-efficient hybrid option provides additional value for those looking to save on gas, while Toyota’s reputation for reliability makes it a smart long-term investment. Whether you’re taking a road trip, running errands, or commuting to work, the Highlander delivers a smooth and enjoyable ride.