Toyota has updated its mid-size SUV, positioning the ride as the ultimate family car without compromise. Entering its third generation, the Highlander gets longer, wider, and completely updated styling.
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Add on the Platinum package to the Limited trim level for this expansive panoramic moonroof.
Gone are the soft curves of the old Highlander! Beefier styling emphasizes its bulkier dimensions. While it does retain its car-like feel from behind the wheel, with butter-smooth handling and just enough pick-up, visually its size is starting to blur the lines between the mid- and full-size SUV.
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Styling on the new Highlander is a bit bulkier than in previous generations.
Inside, soft-touch materials are used throughout, giving the whole experience of driving or riding in the Highlander a more upscale aura. An absolutely massive center console will be a dream for organized owners, but could become a chaotic cavern for those who are more likely to see its sliding cover as an out-of-sight-out-of-mind excuse. A divided shelf running the length of the dashboard is probably even more useful: wallets, keys, and phones remain visible and will no longer clog cup holders.
There’s no denying that the Highlander is aimed at growing families. Redesigned rear suspension adds enough width in the rear that the now-standard fold-flat third row seat has room for three, meaning total seating for up to 8.
Larger families looking to make frequent use of the Highlander’s third row should understand certain height limitations do apply. Sitting in the rear at six-foot-two wasn’t entirely uncomfortable, although a ride longer than 20 minutes would be pushing it. Perfect for the little ones, but worth a second thought if they’re approaching a growth spurt.
The 2014 Toyota Highlander is available with three different power options. The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 185 horsepower, delivers 22 miles per gallon combined, according to EPA ratings. A 3.5-liter, V-6 model is available in either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive, which returns 21 mpg and 20 mpg, respectively. Finally, the hybrid option couples a high-torque electric motor with the V-6 engine, offering 280 net horsepower and a combined fuel efficiency rating of 28 mpg.
via@DailyNews