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With the number of vehicles today that come in all shapes and sizes, everyone is sure to find the right car that would fit their preferences and lifestyles. Size is no problem especially if you are looking for something that’s bigger and taller than a sedan but is smaller than an SUV or a pickup truck. The Toyota Highlander would fit this description perfectly—the model is categorized as a midsize SUV, or a crossover vehicle. It is a pioneer in that segment, being the first car-based midsize SUV in the United States in 2001. The Highlander is called the Kluger in the Japanese and Australian markets, which means clever or wise in the German language. This model shares a platform with the Harrier (released in 1997) and seats seven people. Compared to the city-savvy Harrier, the Highlander is marketed as a more robust, outdoorsy, and sporty model. It is also bigger: 110mm longer and 55mm taller in fact, which gives it more room inside. The 2013 model release is the latest upgrade to the model, and it is fast becoming a bestseller among consumers. Let’s take a look at the improved features of the new Highlander from the aspects of interior versatility, design and technology, safety, and efficiency. Versatility. Whether you have a bigger-than-average family or you’re into carpooling (or both), the Highlander offers no problem when it comes to accommodations. Both the second and third rows have separate AC vents (the control panel is at the second row) for everyone’s comfort. The Toyota Highlander also has a versatile space for luggage and other cargo—just fold flat the second- and third-row seats, and you instantly have 95.4 feet of cargo capacity! Design & Technology. Sporty as it may be, the new Highlander is also an elegant looker with its chrome accents, color-keyed outside mirrors and door handles, and alloy wheels. The SE variant has been equipped with fog lights, a power liftgate with jam protection, and a tilt/slide moonroof. Inside, more tech awaits: a Display Audio system which includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen integrated with a backup camera display, AM/FM CD player that can also play MP3 and WMA files, USB port with iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth technology that allows for hands-free controlling of phones and other devices. Safety. The Toyota Highlander has gotten the thumbs up—from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning for itself the distinction of being a Top Safety Pick. The standard safety features include antilock brakes, airbags (side-impact, driver’s knee, side curtain), electronic stability system, and active front head restraints. Efficiency. The new Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine with Double Overhead Cam’s (DOHC) 24-valve layout can generate a whopping 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The result? An estimated 24 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in the city. The hybrid version’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system makes use of a 3.5-liter V6 and a powerful electric motor to generate an impressive 280 net horsepower. The Highlander Hybrid gets an estimated 28 mpg, and, being a hybrid, it has been rated as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid version is enough to convince anyone why the new release is indeed better in every way!
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