2005 Toyota Highlander: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Midyear introduction of a gas/electric hybrid version highlights 2005 for this midsize SUV. Highlander shares its underskin structure with Toyota's Camry sedan and with the RX SUV from Toyota's luxury Lexus division.

Conventional-engine versions come in base and upscale Limited models, both with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive; the AWD system does not have low-range gearing. Base Highlanders offer a 160-hp 4-cyl engine or a 230-hp V6. Limiteds use the V6. The 4-cyl has a 4-speed automatic transmission, the V6 a 5-speed. Also available in base and Limited trim, the Hybrid combines the gas V6 and battery-powered electric motors for a total of 268 hp. It uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and offers 2WD or AWD. Sharing hybrid technology with Toyota's Prius sedan and the RX 400h, a computer determines whether it drives on electricity, the gas engine, or both. No plug-in charging is required. The base Highlander seats five. A 2-passenger 3rd-row seat for 7-passenger capacity is available on the base, standard on Limited and Hybrids. The 3rd-row seat folds flush with the floor. Standard on Hybrids and optional on other models are head-protecting curtain side airbags covering the 1st and 2nd seating rows; front torso side airbags are included. The curtain airbags are designed to deploy in side collisions and in rollovers. All Highlanders have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, and tire-pressure monitor. Limiteds and Hybrids have 17-inch alloy wheels vs. 16-inch steel wheels for base versions. A navigation system is an exclusive Limited option. Sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, and rear DVD entertainment are available for all Highlanders. Hybrid pricing was unavailable in time for this report, but Toyota says it will carry a premium of $4000-$5000 over other Highlanders.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.