A joy to drive – The Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has always been everybody’s favorite because it is an all-rounder in every sense. Likewise, the newest Highlander is a combination of performance and convenience. This version sports a bigger frame than its predecessor: about 2.7 inches longer and an inch wider, to be precise. On the engine front, the 3.5-liter V6 remains the main attraction. However, this vehicle’s safety and comfort features give its rivals a run for their money.
Toyota has added several new elements to its latest Highlander SUV, improving its drivability, daily usability, and reliability.
- Pre-collision warning
- Blind-spot warning
- Lane-departure warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Backup camera is standard
- Leather option is available from the XLE trim level
- The tires have tall sidewalls helping the Highlander to float over bumps
- All V6 engine models have the towing package of up to 5000 pounds (they are fitted with a heavy duty radiator, alternator, and supplemental oil cooler)
- The four-cylinder Highlander LE can tow up to 1500 pounds
Performance and safety features
A six-speed automatic transmission is available in the LE trim. The estimated combined mpg is 22. All other trims come with the 3.5-liter V6 engine. Even though the transmission remains the same, one can find the front-wheel or all-wheel drive mode as well. The front-wheel drive options provide a combined mpg of 21 and the all-wheel drive a combined mpg of 20.
It also outpaces the competition by a few seconds by recording 0-60mph in 7.3 seconds. Some of the standard safety features for Highlander include front seat side airbags, antilock disk brakes, rearview camera, traction and stability control, a driver knee airbag, and front passenger seat airbag.
The Highlander received 5/5 in government crash testing. The Limited trim comes with blind spot monitoring, frontal collision warning and mitigation system, and lane departure warning. Along with this, the Toyota’s safety connects Telematics that includes emergency assistance, stolen vehicle location, and automatic collision notification. It is interesting to know that the hybrid trim gets an excellent fuel economy of 27 mpg.
In a nutshell, the 2016 Toyota Highlander is a reliable SUV which acts its role as a mobile family room to the hilt.
