The 2008 Toyota Highlander is redesigned with larger dimensions, more standard safety features, and a new engine. For 2008, this midsize SUV grows nearly four inches in length and three inches in width, resulting in more passenger and cargo room. Highlander seats up to seven with a stowable third-row seat and second-row bucket seats. The second-row offers three-passenger capacity via a detachable padded center section that folds and stows in a first-row console when not in use. Highlander comes with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive. Non-Hybrid Highlanders come in Base, Sport, and Limited models and use a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine.

The AWD-only Hybrid comes in Base and Limited trims and uses a 3.3-liter V6 teamed with an electric motor for a combined 270 hp. Like Toyota's other hybrids, it runs on one or both of its power sources, depending on driving demands, and requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Other Highlanders have a conventional 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capability. New for 2008 is the Hybrid's EV mode that allows the driver to put Highlander in full-electric drive mode for a limited distance. Also new is a driver-selectable Econ mode that regulates throttle inputs for optimum fuel economy.

Safety features include curtain side airbags, front side airbags, a driver knee airbag, ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system. Standard on all non-hybrid AWD models is a Downhill Assist Control, which helps regulate speed on downhill slopes. Options include a sunroof, DVD entertainment, three-zone climate control, and a navigation system.