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| Toyota Highlander |
The Toyota Highlander is available in six configurations with two engines and two drive systems. 2WD front wheel drive models and all-wheel drive models are available with either a 4-cyl or V6 engine. The four-cylinder Toyota Highlander has a 2.4-liter dock variable valve timing (VVT-I) engine that produces 155 hp and 163 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The AWD system employs a bevel-gear center differential with a viscous coupling to divide engine power 50/50 front and rear. Standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and brake assist. Optional add-ons include front-side airbags, curtain-side airbags and daytime running lights.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Highlights of the additional amenities at the Limited level are items like the JBL Stereo system, multi-way power seats, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and smaller items like remote keyless entry.
Both models are offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), but the Toyota Highlander may be equipped with a four-cylinder engine or a V-6.
The Toyota Highlander is slightly longer and 5 inches wider than the truck-based 4Runner. Like the RX 300, the Highlander uses an unconventional gear selector for the automatic transmission, which protrudes from the lower dashboard. Exterior
despite styling differences between the Toyota Highlander and RX 300, the two models share the same basic design. The Highlander rides a 106.9-inch wheelbase and stretches 184.4 inches long overall — that’s 4 inches longer in both dimensions than the RX 300. In addition to prominent fender creases, the Highlander features squared-off styling instead of slanted roof pillars like those found on the RX 300.
The Highlander Toyota Highlanderand RX 300 dashboards have similar layouts, but the Toyota design has different audio and climate controls.Options include seat-mounted side-impact airbags and Vehicle Skid Control, Toyota’s electronic stability system.
Driving Impressions
an exceptionally smooth ride coupled with confident and capable handling are the high points of the Toyota Highlander picture.