The quest for the perfect family car is a challenge many face, with numerous factors to consider, including safety, space, fuel efficiency, and features that cater to both adults and children. Among the plethora of options available, the Toyota Highlander stands out as a popular choice. But, is it truly a good family car? This article delves into the details, exploring the Highlander’s features, capabilities, and how it fares against the criteria that matter most to families.
Introduction to the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV that has been in production since 2000. Over the years, it has undergone several transformations, each iteration bringing improvements in design, technology, and performance. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and robust feature set, the Highlander has become a staple in many family garages. But what makes it so appealing to families, and does it live up to its reputation as a versatile and reliable family vehicle?
Design and Interior Space
One of the primary considerations for families is space. The Toyota Highlander delivers in this aspect, offering a spacious interior that can comfortably seat up to eight people, depending on the configuration. The third row, often a point of contention in many SUVs due to limited space, is surprisingly accommodating in the Highlander, making it a viable option for larger families or for those who frequently transport additional passengers.
In terms of cargo space, the Highlander does not disappoint. With the third row folded, it provides ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or whatever else families might need to haul. The versatile seating arrangements and generous cargo area make the Highlander an excellent choice for road trips, daily commutes, or running errands around town.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount for any family car, and the Toyota Highlander excel in this department. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) suite. This bundle of advanced safety technologies includes:
- Full-speed dynamic radar cruise control
- Lane departure warning with steering assist
- Automatic high beams
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
Additionally, the Highlander has a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its position as a safe family car.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Performance and fuel efficiency are crucial for families who spend a lot of time on the road. The Toyota Highlander offers a range of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a hybrid model, which combines a V6 engine with electric motors for enhanced fuel efficiency.
The V6 engine provides smooth and robust performance, capable of handling both daily driving and towing needs with ease. For the more environmentally conscious or budget-friendly option, the Highlander Hybrid is an attractive choice, offering impressive fuel economy ratings without compromising on performance.
Fuel Economy Ratings
- The front-wheel-drive Highlander Hybrid LE achieves an estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The all-wheel-drive V6 models offer an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
These ratings make the Highlander not only a practical choice but also a cost-effective one for families looking to minimize their fuel expenses.
Features and Technology
Families today expect a high level of technology and convenience features in their vehicles. The Toyota Highlander delivers, offering a modern and intuitive infotainment system, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring seamless connectivity for all family members.
Additional features include Entune multimedia systems, a JBL premium audio system for enhanced entertainment, and available rear-seat entertainment systems to keep kids occupied during long trips. The availability of wireless charging and multiple USB ports throughout the vehicle ensures that devices stay charged, further enhancing the family driving experience.
Comfort and Convenience
The Toyota Highlander prioritizes comfort, with plush seating, three-zone climate control, and available heated and ventilated seats for the ultimate in driving comfort. The panoramic moonroof adds a touch of elegance and allows natural light to flood the cabin, making the interior feel even more spacious.
For added convenience, features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert provide peace of mind, especially in congested parking lots or when changing lanes.
Conclusion
Is the Toyota Highlander a good family car? Based on its spacious and versatile interior, outstanding safety features, impressive performance and fuel efficiency, and advantageous technology and convenience features, the answer is a resounding yes. It checks all the boxes for what families look for in a vehicle, making it an ideal choice for daily driving, road trips, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a family of four or eight, the Toyota Highlander has the capacity, capability, and features to meet your needs. Its reputation for reliability and durability means it can keep up with the demands of family life, providing years of service with the right care. For those in the market for a new family vehicle, the Toyota Highlander is certainly worth considering, offering a balanced blend of practicality, comfort, and enjoyment that’s hard to find elsewhere in the market.
What are the key features of the Toyota Highlander that make it a good family car?
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that offers a wide range of features that make it an excellent choice for families. Some of the key features include its spacious interior, which can accommodate up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The Highlander also offers a generous cargo area, with up to 84.7 cubic feet of space behind the front seats. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a suite of safety features, including a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. These features provide families with peace of mind while on the road.
The Highlander also offers a range of convenience features that are perfect for families. These include a available panoramic moonroof, a power liftgate, and a range of infotainment options, including an 8-inch touchscreen display and a 12-speaker JBL premium sound system. The vehicle also offers a range of storage compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin, making it easy to keep essentials within reach. Furthermore, the Highlander is available with a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine and a hybrid powertrain, which provides excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions.
How does the Toyota Highlander perform in terms of safety?
The Toyota Highlander has an excellent safety record, 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 vehicle is equipped with a range of standard safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. The Highlander also offers a range of available safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.
The Highlander’s safety features are not limited to passive safety features. The vehicle is also designed to prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. For example, the available blind-spot monitoring system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the blind spot and alerts the driver with a warning light and sound. The vehicle also offers a range of driver assistance features, including a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Toyota Highlander’s excellent safety record and wide range of safety features make it an excellent choice for families.
What is the fuel economy of the Toyota Highlander?
The fuel economy of the Toyota Highlander varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration. The front-wheel drive (FWD) model with the 3.5-liter V6 engine has an estimated EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. The all-wheel drive (AWD) model with the same engine has an estimated EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The Highlander Hybrid model, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, has an estimated EPA rating of 36 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 36 mpg combined.
The Highlander’s fuel economy is also affected by the vehicle’s weight and aerodynamics. The vehicle’s curb weight ranges from 4,145 to 4,565 pounds, depending on the configuration, which can impact fuel efficiency. However, the Highlander’s aerodynamic design, which includes features such as a curved roofline and a rear spoiler, helps to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, the vehicle’s available engine start/stop technology and Eco mode help to reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions.
How much space is available in the Toyota Highlander for passengers and cargo?
The Toyota Highlander offers a generous amount of space for passengers and cargo. The vehicle’s interior measures 120.4 cubic feet, with 42.3 inches of legroom in the front seats, 38.4 inches in the second-row seats, and 27.7 inches in the third-row seats. The Highlander also offers a range of cargo configurations, with up to 16 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats, 40.6 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, and 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.
The Highlander’s cargo space is also highly versatile, with features such as a available power liftgate and a range of storage compartments throughout the cabin. The vehicle’s second-row seats also offer a range of configurations, including a bench seat and captain’s chairs, which can be adjusted to provide more legroom or cargo space. Additionally, the Highlander’s available seating options, including a second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs, can accommodate up to eight passengers, making it an excellent choice for large families or groups.
What are the available trim levels and options for the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is available in six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum. The base L trim comes standard with features such as a 3.5-liter V6 engine, FWD, and a range of safety features, including a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring system. The LE trim adds features such as a power liftgate, fog lights, and a range of infotainment options. The XLE trim includes features such as a moonroof, a power driver’s seat, and a range of premium materials.
The higher trim levels, including the Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, offer a range of additional features, including a 360-degree camera system, a panoramic moonroof, and a range of premium materials and trim options. The Highlander is also available with a range of options, including a tow package, a roof rack, and a range of accessory items, such as floor mats and cargo nets. Additionally, the vehicle is available with a range of exterior colors and interior trim options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to suit their preferences.
How does the Toyota Highlander compare to other mid-size SUVs in its class?
The Toyota Highlander is a highly competitive mid-size SUV that compares favorably to other vehicles in its class. The vehicle’s spacious interior, generous cargo area, and wide range of safety features make it an excellent choice for families. The Highlander also offers a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, which provides excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions. In comparison to other mid-size SUVs, such as the Honda Pilot and the Ford Explorer, the Highlander offers a more refined and comfortable ride, as well as a wider range of standard safety features.
The Highlander also offers a range of advantages over other mid-size SUVs, including its reputation for reliability and durability. The vehicle has a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty on the hybrid model, which provides buyers with peace of mind and protection against potential repairs. Additionally, the Highlander’s available features, such as a 360-degree camera system and a panoramic moonroof, make it a more luxurious and desirable vehicle than many of its competitors. Overall, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for families and individuals looking for a reliable, safe, and feature-rich mid-size SUV.