2008 Toyota Highlander - a Crossover SUV...With sales in 2006 of more than 2.5 million vehicles, and by many measures the largest and richest car company in the world, Toyota is on a roll. They have taken the lead not only in producing well designed, dependable. long-lasting vehicular transportation, but also in bringing Hybrid technology to the mainstream. So, when Toyota introduces an "all new" second generation version of one of its most popular models, in both gas and Hybrid iterations, it's a big deal.
When that introduction is being staged at the posh Cordillera Resort & Spa
high on a mountain top overlooking the Vail Valley, it's pretty hard to turn down the invitation
As a key component in both Toyota's 3-vehicle mid-SUV range, with the 4-Runner and FJ Cruiser, as well as the 3-vehicle Hybrid offering, with the Prius and the Camry Hybrid, the Highlander is clearly important to Toyota.
Unlike its other SUV siblings, the Highlander is built on a car chassis , rather than that of a truck. Sharing a platform with the Camry and Avalon, the Highlander offers a far more comfortable ride and responsive driving experience than do it's truck-based competitors. As such, Toyota refers to the Highlander as a "crossover" vehicle, one that blends car-like driving dynamics with the visibility, versatility, and All Wheel Drive capabilities of an SUV.
Both the all-gas and Hybrid models now boost power output of 270 horsepower. The gas models achieve this with the impressive new 3.5 liter V6 engine introduced in the Rav 4 compact SUV. The Hybrid configuration depends on a fuel efficient 3.3 liter V6 combined with its high-torque electric motor. An electronically controlled 5-speed auto-manual is mated to the gas powered V6, while the Hybrids utilize a seamless CVT transmission. An alphabet-soup of
driver's aids and high-tech systems optimize engine performance, braking, and vehicle stability. Towing capacity for the standard Highlander is 5000 lbs, with the Hybrid rated to haul 3500 lbs.
The gas powered Highlander is rated at combined 19 MPG, while the Hybrid is rated at 26 MPG. In the best tradition of confusing governmental
information, both these ratings are reflective of the new EPA testing procedures in place for 2008 vehicles, which are more stringent than the older, more generous rating system. In fact, fuel economy for both Highlander models have actually improved.
Larger in all dimensions with a resultant increase of 49 cu ft, and restyled inside and out, the 2008 Highlander is filled with safety and convenience innovations. No less than 7 airbags protect occupants, including a driver's knee airbag, and side curtain systems for all three rows of seats. Active headrests respond in an accident to minimize whiplash injuries. Not only do the middle row seats recline, but they can be converted from a three person bench seat to captains chairs by removing the middle seat and stowing it out of the way under the console between the front seats. Naturally, the third row seats fold flat to allow plenty of
stowage space to swallow up all the stuff that SUV's seem to attract.
Gas powered 2008 Highlanders are in showrooms now, with the Hybrid models due in late September.
Pricing will range from $27.300 for a base gas model to the mid $30,000's for fully optioned gas models and the Hybrids. Plenty of power, good looks, versatility and state of the art technology make the 2008 Highlander a strong contender in the crowded SUV/Crossover market.
Mike Cotsworth writes the
Automotively Speaking column which appears in the Parker Chronicle, and is the owner of Car Connections, Ltd.