2002 Toyota Highlander: Road Test
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2002 Toyota Highlander ▼
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- MSRP: $23,880 -$30,795
- Invoice: $21,251 -$27,405
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Our road test for the 2002 Toyota Highlander includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Toyota Highlander from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Toyota Highlander, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Toyota Highlander help you decide if a 2002 Toyota Highlander is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.7 |
Only V6 models made available for test so far. V6 AWD is best-selling version, and did 0-60 mph in a pleasing 8.5 sec in our test. Still, a fully loaded Highlander feels a bit lazy off the line and in midrange passing, despite smooth, responsive automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.8 |
V6 AWD models averaged 16.4 mpg in mostly city driving, 17.6 including performance testing, and 19.0 in a mix of urban/suburban commuting. All are good figures for a midsize SUV. Toyota recommends premium fuel for the V6, regular-grade for the 4 cyl.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4 |
A firmer suspension than in the RX 300 lets most every bump register, but Highlander's ride is not jarring, always composed, and without the side-to-side motion that afflicts some SUVs.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 3.5 |
Pleasant, maneuverable, stable. Body leans in turns, but overall control is among the best of any midsize SUV. Steering with fine road feel helps, despite being slightly over-assisted. Standard ABS with brake assist furnishes acceptable performance, but pedal action is mushy, and nosedive is evident in hard stops. Optional antiskid system provides appropriate corrections in slippery corners. AWD not as capable off-road or in deep snow as 4WD.
QUIETNESS
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4 |
Engine seldom intrusive. Wind noise rises with speed, and coarse-pavement tire drone causes rear-seaters to raise voices.
CONTROLS
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6 |
Main gauges set deeper in "coves" than ideal, and not sufficiently illuminated to be easily read in sunlight. Gear shift sprouts from dashboard as in RX 300; it's inviting to use, but can get knocked into Neutral by a driver's hand returning from cupholder to steering wheel. Cupholders too large to secure a soda can. Controls placed conveniently, move smoothly, though audio and climate system graphics aren't always obvious. Cabin solidly assembled from durable materials, but ambience is middle-market austere, even with leather.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Generous, though sunroof housing eats into head room. Seats nicely supportive but unexpectedly firm. Driver gets elevated view of road, with scene over long dashtop more minivan than SUV. Entry/exit requires slight extra effort due to SUV-like ground clearance.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.1 |
Spacious head, shoulder, knee clearance, but tight toe space tarnishes advantages of virtually flat floor. Seat is too firm if you equate deep cushioning with comfort. Depriving Highlander of 3rd-row seating is a questionable decision by Toyota. As in front, ingress/egress requires conscious step-up/down.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.7 |
Absence of 3rd-row seat creates tall, wide cargo hold. Rear seat is split 60/40, moves down and forward to form nearly flat load floor. With headrests removed, front seatbacks fold rearward for sleeper-ready versatility. Plenty of storage bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 4.5 |
Aside from slightly elevated ground clearance, Highlander doesn't really do anything better than an AWD minivan would, sacrificing in the bargain such agreeable features as space-efficient sliding side doors and 7-passenger seating. That said, Highlander is a far smarter buy than a truck-based SUV for most people, and its all-around competence, pricing, and Toyota design make it more than a match for midsize SUVs of any stripe. It's an easy Best Buy value.
Total Score
| AWD, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 65 | 49.5 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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