2003 Toyota Highlander: Road Test
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2003 Toyota Highlander ▼
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- MSRP: $23,880 -$31,095
- Invoice: $21,251 -$27,672
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Our road test for the 2003 Toyota Highlander includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Toyota Highlander from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Toyota Highlander, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Toyota Highlander help you decide if a 2003 Toyota Highlander is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.9 |
We've tested only V6 models so far. Top-selling V6 AWD clocked a brisk 8.5 sec in our 0-60 mph test, but felt a bit lazy off the line and in midrange passing with a sizable load--this despite smooth, responsive automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.7 |
V6 AWD test models averaged 16.4 mpg in mostly city driving, 17.6 with performance tests, 19.0 in 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 | 4.4 |
Highlander has a firmer suspension than RX, so more bumps are felt, but ride is not jarring, always composed, and without the unwanted lateral wriggling that afflicts some SUVs.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.5 |
Pleasant, maneuverable, stable. Cornering lean is noticed, but overall control is among the best of any midsize SUV. Steering a bit over-assisted, but has fine road feel. Standard antilock brakes with full-power brake assist gives 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 traditional 4WD.
QUIETNESS
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.1 |
Engine seldom intrudes, but wind noise rises sharply with speed, and coarse-pavement tire drone causes rear-seaters to raise voices.
CONTROLS
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.1 |
Main gauges a bit deep-set for best daytime legibility, aggravated by reflections from painted surrounds. Gear shift sprouts from dashboard, but is easy to use--and easy to knock into Neutral by accident. Cupholders too large to secure soda cans. Handy minor controls have pleasing action. Some audio and climate system graphics not obvious. Cabin solidly assembled from durable materials, but ambience is middle-market plain even with leather.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.3 |
Generous, though sunroof housing eats into head room. Seats nicely supportive but unexpectedly firm. Driver gets elevated view over a long dashtop that's more minivan than SUV. Entry/exit requires slight extra effort due to SUV-like ground clearance.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.4 |
Spacious head, shoulder, knee clearance, but tight toe space tarnishes advantages of virtually flat floor. Seat too firm if you equate deep cushioning with comfort. Lack of 3rd-row seating a likely drawback for some buyers. As in front, ingress/egress requires conscious step-up/down.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.8 |
Absent 3rd-row seat leaves tall, wide cargo hold with five aboard. Rear seat split 60/40, moves down and forward to form nearly flat floor. With headrests removed, front seatbacks fold rearward for sleeper-ready versatility. Plenty of storage bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 5 |
Except for a bit more ground clearance, Highlander functions like an AWD minivan, yet lacks a minivan's useful sliding side doors and 7-passenger seating. But as an SUV, this is a far smarter choice than a truck-based design for most people, and overall competence, pricing, and Toyota DNA make it more than a match for midsize SUVs of any stripe. Highlander is an easy Best Buy.
Total Score
| AWD V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 64 | 51.2 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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