The Toyota Highlander has been a staple in the mid-size SUV market for decades, offering a reliable, spacious, and feature-packed vehicle that meets the needs of families and adventure-seekers alike. But how does it rank among its competitors in the crowded SUV market? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Toyota Highlander, exploring its performance, features, safety, and overall value to determine its standing among other SUVs.
Introduction to the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that was first introduced in 2000. Since then, it has undergone several redesigns, with the current fourth-generation model being introduced in 2019. The Highlander is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and impressive fuel economy. It’s available in a range of trim levels, including the base L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a unique set of features and upgrades.
Performance and Capability
The Toyota Highlander is available with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 and a hybrid powertrain. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 240 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer front-wheel drive or <strong=all-wheel drive capability.
In terms of performance, the Toyota Highlander is smooth and quiet on the road, with plenty of power for merging and passing. The hybrid model is particularly impressive, offering exceptional fuel economy and a low emissions output. According to the EPA, the Highlander Hybrid achieves an estimated 36 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for the Toyota Highlander, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander offers a range of standard safety features, including:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 | A suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | A system that alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spot |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | A system that alerts drivers to approaching vehicles when reversing out of a parking space |
Comparison to Other SUVs
So how does the Toyota Highlander rank among other SUVs in its class? To answer this question, we’ll compare it to some of its closest competitors, including the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Subaru Ascent.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It seats up to eight people, depending on the configuration, and offers 40.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. In comparison, the Honda Pilot offers 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Ford Explorer offers 43.9 cubic feet.
In terms of comfort, the Highlander offers heated and ventilated seats, a premium audio system, and a large touchscreen display. The Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, offers a more utilitarian interior, with a focus on functionality and practicality.
Features and Technology
The Toyota Highlander offers a range of advanced features and technologies, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It also offers a range of convenience features, including a power liftgate and a panoramic moonroof.
In comparison, the Ford Explorer offers a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a range of premium audio options, while the Honda Pilot offers a 8-inch touchscreen display and a range of family-friendly features, including a rear entertainment system.
Conclusion
So how does the Toyota Highlander rank among SUVs? Based on our analysis, it’s clear that the Highlander is a top contender in its class, offering a unique combination of performance, features, and safety. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and impressive fuel economy make it an attractive option for families and adventure-seekers alike.
While it may not offer the same level of off-road capability as some of its competitors, the Highlander’s all-wheel drive system and ground clearance make it well-suited for light off-roading and inclement weather. Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size SUV, and its reliability and durability make it a smart investment for years to come.
In terms of ranking, we would place the Toyota Highlander in the top three among mid-size SUVs, alongside the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent. Its unique combination of features, performance, and safety make it a standout in its class, and its reputation for reliability and durability make it a smart choice for anyone in the market for a new SUV.
What are the key features of the Toyota Highlander that contribute to its ranking among SUVs?
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that offers a range of features that contribute to its ranking among its competitors. Some of the key features include its powerful and fuel-efficient engine, comfortable and spacious interior, and advanced safety features. The Highlander also comes with a range of trim levels, including the L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum, each with its own unique set of features and options. Additionally, the Highlander is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, making it a great option for those who need to navigate rough terrain or inclement weather.
The Highlander’s features and capabilities have earned it a reputation as a reliable and practical SUV. Its engine, which is available in both gasoline and hybrid models, provides ample power and torque, while its advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, help to keep drivers and passengers safe on the road. The Highlander’s interior is also highly regarded, with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers and ample cargo space. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s combination of features, capabilities, and reputation make it a top-ranked SUV in its class.
How does the Toyota Highlander rank in terms of safety features and ratings?
The Toyota Highlander is highly ranked in terms of safety features and ratings, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander comes standard with a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. It also features a robust body structure and a comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. Additionally, the Highlander’s safety features are designed to work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate the effects of a crash.
The Highlander’s safety ratings and features have earned it a reputation as one of the safest SUVs on the road. Its advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, help to prevent accidents by alerting drivers to potential hazards and automatically adjusting the vehicle’s speed and course. The Highlander’s robust body structure and comprehensive suite of airbags also help to protect occupants in the event of a crash. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s safety features and ratings make it a top choice for families and individuals who prioritize safety.
How does the Toyota Highlander compare to other mid-size SUVs in terms of fuel economy?
The Toyota Highlander is highly competitive in terms of fuel economy, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, depending on the trim level and drivetrain. The Highlander’s fuel economy is thanks in part to its advanced engine technology, which includes features such as variable valve timing and a multi-mode automatic transmission. The Highlander is also available as a hybrid model, which combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to achieve an estimated EPA rating of up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
The Highlander’s fuel economy compares favorably to other mid-size SUVs in its class. For example, the Honda Pilot has an estimated EPA rating of up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Ford Explorer has an estimated EPA rating of up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Highlander’s hybrid model is also highly competitive, with an estimated EPA rating that is significantly better than many of its competitors. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy makes it a great choice for those who need a practical and efficient SUV for daily driving.
What are the towing and hauling capabilities of the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, depending on the trim level and drivetrain. This makes it a great option for those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other small vehicles. The Highlander also features a range of towing-related features, including a tow package with a heavy-duty towing hitch and a wiring harness. Additionally, the Highlander’s powerful engine and advanced transmission make it well-suited for hauling heavy loads, with a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,685 pounds.
The Highlander’s towing and hauling capabilities are thanks in part to its powerful engine, which produces up to 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The Highlander’s advanced transmission also helps to optimize power delivery and traction, making it easier to tow and haul heavy loads. Additionally, the Highlander’s towing-related features, such as its tow package and trailer sway control, help to make towing safer and more convenient. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s towing and hauling capabilities make it a great choice for those who need a practical and capable SUV for towing and hauling.
How does the Toyota Highlander rank in terms of interior space and comfort?
The Toyota Highlander is highly ranked in terms of interior space and comfort, with seating for up to eight passengers and ample cargo space. The Highlander’s interior features a range of premium materials and amenities, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a premium audio system. The Highlander also features a range of convenience features, such as a power liftgate and a hands-free power liftgate, making it easy to load and unload cargo. Additionally, the Highlander’s advanced infotainment system features a range of connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Highlander’s interior space and comfort are thanks in part to its spacious and well-appointed cabin, which features plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers. The Highlander’s seats are also highly comfortable, with ample support and cushioning for long road trips. Additionally, the Highlander’s cargo area is highly versatile, with a range of storage compartments and tie-downs making it easy to secure cargo. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s interior space and comfort make it a great choice for families and individuals who need a practical and comfortable SUV for daily driving.
What are the maintenance and reliability costs of the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is highly regarded for its reliability and low maintenance costs, with a range of features and technologies designed to minimize repair and maintenance expenses. The Highlander’s engine, transmission, and other major components are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with a range of maintenance schedules and intervals to help keep costs low. Additionally, the Highlander’s advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies help to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of costly repairs. According to data from Kelley Blue Book, the Toyota Highlander has a 5-year maintenance cost of around $4,300, which is lower than many of its competitors.
The Highlander’s reliability and low maintenance costs are thanks in part to its robust engineering and design, which emphasizes durability and longevity. The Highlander’s engine, transmission, and other major components are designed to withstand the rigors of daily driving, with a range of features and technologies designed to minimize wear and tear. Additionally, the Highlander’s maintenance schedules and intervals are designed to be convenient and cost-effective, with many routine maintenance tasks able to be performed at home or at a local dealership. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s reliability and low maintenance costs make it a great choice for those who need a practical and affordable SUV for daily driving.
How does the Toyota Highlander rank in terms of resale value and overall cost of ownership?
The Toyota Highlander is highly ranked in terms of resale value and overall cost of ownership, with a range of features and technologies designed to minimize costs and maximize value. According to data from Kelley Blue Book, the Toyota Highlander has a 5-year resale value of around 55%, which is higher than many of its competitors. Additionally, the Highlander’s low maintenance costs, fuel-efficient engine, and advanced safety features all help to reduce the overall cost of ownership. The Highlander’s reputation for reliability and durability also helps to maintain its value over time, making it a great choice for those who need a practical and affordable SUV for daily driving.
The Highlander’s resale value and overall cost of ownership are thanks in part to its reputation for reliability and durability, as well as its range of features and technologies designed to minimize costs and maximize value. The Highlander’s advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, help to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Additionally, the Highlander’s fuel-efficient engine and low maintenance costs help to reduce the overall cost of ownership, making it a great choice for those who need a practical and affordable SUV for daily driving. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s resale value and overall cost of ownership make it a great choice for those who need a reliable and affordable SUV.