The 2005 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of four-cylinder or V6, with front-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive. First introduced as a 2001 model, the Highlander was substantially revised for 2004. The 2005 Toyota Highlander adds standard features that were optional. Optional curtain-style airbags and side-impact airbags are designed to protect passengers' heads and torsos in a side impact or rollover.
The Highlander remains the easiest of motoring companions. Seating for five comes standard, with an optional third-row seat to carry up to seven passengers, though they'd be cramped. Equipped with the larger 3.3-liter V6 and all-wheel-drive, the Toyota Highlander offers strong power and secure handling in nasty weather. Model Lineup
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| 2005 Toyota Highlander |
The Toyota Highlander is available in base or limited trim, each with either front-wheel drive or full-time all-wheel drive. Four-cylinder models come with a four-speed automatic transmission; V6 models get a five-speed automatic.
The base four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive model ($24,080) comes with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, cruise control, cloth upholstery, sophisticated anti-lock brakes, seating for five, and electronic stability control (VSC). The all-wheel-drive model ($25,480) is similarly equipped. Highlander Limited 2WD ($29,980) and 4WD ($31,380) come standard with V6 and third-row seat as standard equipment. Leather-trimmed seating (Ivory or Ash Gray) is available for the Limited ($670) or base model ($2,255). A new low-tire-pressure warning system is standard. The 2006 Highlander Hybrid combines a 3.3-liter V6 with electric motors.
Nearly 2 inches narrower and 4.4 inches shorter than Toyota's truck-based 4Runner, the Toyota Highlander promises SUV versatility and car like ride and handling.Minor enhancements mark the 2005 models. Toyota's Star Safety System consists of Vehicle Stability Control, traction control and an antilock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Despite styling differences between the Toyota Highlander and RX 330, the two models share the same basic design. The Toyota Highlander rides a 106.9-inch wheelbase and stretches 184.6 inches long overall.
Seating for five people includes two front bucket seats and a 60/40-split folding rear bench that holds three. A third-row seat that boosts seating to seven passengers is available. Toyota's 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 160 horsepower, and the 3.3-liter V-6 generates 230 hp. The Toyota Highlander is available with front- or all-wheel drive, which doesn't have a Low range.
Antilock brakes and Vehicle Stability Control are standard. Seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain-type airbags are optional.