Improved Performance in All Three Grades
All Highlander gas models are powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 with dual independent variable valve timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower, a 55 horsepower gain over the previous generation. The upgraded engine also generates an impressive 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 RPM.
The engine is mated to a five-speed Super ECT (Super Intelligent Electronically Controlled) transmission, which offers fully automatic shifting as well as selectable manumatic sequential shifting. This feature is selectable by moving the shift lever to the left from the "D" position.
The Highlander Hybrid is offered as an electronic on-demand four-wheel drive with intelligence on Base and Limited grades. The Highlander's advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system's 3.3-liter V6 engine with its high-torque electric drive motor-generator has been extensively upgraded and refined for both power and economy. The new Highlander gained about 300 pounds, growing significantly in every dimension and receiving extensive body and chassis reinforcement. With the added weight, the Highlander Hybrid engineering team was still able to increase output of the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain to 270 net horsepower, while delivering impressive preliminary fuel economy ratings.
Based on customer feedback, the Highlander Hybrid is now equipped with a unique instrument panel, including an energy monitor that adds new features to assist the driver in maximizing fuel economy. Activating an EV mode switch located on the front center console allows the driver to operate in electric-mode under certain conditions for a limited distance at low speeds, or in certain stop-and-go driving conditions. The resulting benefit is reduced fuel consumption, emissions and noise.
A new ECON drive mode switch located next to the EV Mode switch activates a throttle control program that smoothes out the throttle response. This action helps limit excessive acceleration thereby helping to enhance fuel economy.
A third new fuel saving feature is a Hybrid System Indicator located on the left side of the Optitron combination meter. This feature provides the driver with a guideline to reduce fuel consumption.
The Hybrid System Indicator consists of two automatic modes: "normal" and "acceleration." The "normal mode" reveals three white LED dashes, located on the outer edge of the power meter, when driving at slower speeds. Keeping the power meter needle within the three white dashes allows the driver to maintain a constant speed and acceleration level that helps achieve maximum fuel economy.
When the driver increases acceleration, the Hybrid System Indicator automatically switches to "acceleration mode." The "acceleration mode" encourages the driver to keep the power meter needle within five white dashes to help achieve maximum fuel economy.
Comfort and Convenience
The all-new Highlander is well-appointed with an array of standard comfort and convenience features.
Among the many key standard features on all Highlander models include AM/FM/CD with six-speakers (standard on Highlander and Highlander Hybrid Base grades); AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD Changer with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability and satellite radio capability (standard on Sport and Limited Highlander and Highlander Hybrid Limited); universal mini-jack; defroster-linked CFC-free front air conditioning; front seats with height-adjustable active head rests and eight-way (10-way on Limited) adjustable driver's seat; color-keyed power remote outside mirrors, and numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin.
All-new for Highlander is a 40/20/40 split fold-down second row, featuring a middle Center StowTM seat and console with cupholders. The second row also slides fore and aft and reclines.
The long list of standard features also includes power door locks and windows with driver's window jam protection and auto-up/down feature; cruise control; ten cup holders; four bottle holders, two front and one cargo area 12-volt auxiliary power outlets; cargo area tie down hooks; multi-function keyless entry system; UV reduction glass windshield and rear privacy glass; digital clock; dual sun visors with vanity mirrors and sliding extensions; conversation mirror; illuminated entry system; manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel; scheduled maintenance indicator light; full-size spare tire; and much more.
A variety of options and accessories are offered, such as a power back door that can be opened and closed with a key fob; a voice-activated navigation system with an eight-inch screen, a rear-seat entertainment system with a nine-inch screen; three-zone air conditioning; JBL premium audio with six-disc changer, nine speakers and Bluetooth technology; leather seat trim and multi-stage heated seats; power tilt/slide moonroof; and a tow package, with an available 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity (gas models only), class-leading for car- and van-based mid-SUVs.
Color and Trim
The new Highlander is available in nine exterior colors including seven new colors: Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Sandy Beach Metallic, Cypress Pearl, Wave Line Pearl and Blue Streak Metallic. Carryover colors include Black and Salsa Red Pearl. Exterior colors are mated to fabric and leather trim interior colors that include Ash, and Sand Beige. The interior of the Sport grade also offers unique Black trim in both fabric and leather.
The Highlander Hybrid is available in six exterior colors including Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Black, Cypress Pearl, Wave Line Pearl and, exclusive to the hybrid model, Iced Amethyst Mica. They are also mated with Ash and Sand Beige upgraded fabric or leather trim interiors.
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation. The Highlander Hybrid's components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.