- • New Cars
2008 Toyota Highlander Full Review
Date Published: 9/24/08
Also in the 2008 Toyota Highlander Review:
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Toyota Highlander Full Review
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2008 Toyota Highlander Review
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.
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.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.
Our Best Buy choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.
Our Best Buy choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.
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2008 Toyota Highlander Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel economy |
| Instruments/controls | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Models with the conventional V6 engine have good all-around power. They're peppy off the line and competent during midrange passing.
Hybrids are nearly as strong. The responsive CVT helps, though the gas-electric powertrain is prone to subtle but annoying surging and bogging in cruising conditions. The Hybrid's Econ mode severely limits throttle response from a stop to help save fuel.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Models with the conventional V6 engine have good all-around power. They're peppy off the line and competent during midrange passing.
Hybrids are nearly as strong. The responsive CVT helps, though the gas-electric powertrain is prone to subtle but annoying surging and bogging in cruising conditions. The Hybrid's Econ mode severely limits throttle response from a stop to help save fuel.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD Highlanders averaged 15.8 mpg in mostly city driving, 20.6 with more highway use. We've had no opportunity to measure fuel economy on a Hybrid. Conventional Highlanders use regular-grade gas. Toyota recommends premium for Hybrids.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 3.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD Highlanders averaged 15.8 mpg in mostly city driving, 20.6 with more highway use. We've had no opportunity to measure fuel economy on a Hybrid. Conventional Highlanders use regular-grade gas. Toyota recommends premium for Hybrids.
Ride Quality
Among the best in class. Test AWD Limited floated smoothly over smaller bumps, though larger ones sometimes pounded through. Note that the Sport model has a sport suspension that rides more stiffly.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Among the best in class. Test AWD Limited floated smoothly over smaller bumps, though larger ones sometimes pounded through. Note that the Sport model has a sport suspension that rides more stiffly.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Pleasant to drive, though not quite car-agile. Cornering lean is evident and steering response a bit slow on base and Limited models; Sport is only slightly better. But overall control is fine, and the brake-pedal feel is firm and progressive.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Pleasant to drive, though not quite car-agile. Cornering lean is evident and steering response a bit slow on base and Limited models; Sport is only slightly better. But overall control is fine, and the brake-pedal feel is firm and progressive.
Quietness
All Highlanders are generally quiet, though wind and road noise are noticed at highway speeds. Under acceleration, engines emit a rich, subtle purr, but the Hybrid's electric motor is annoyingly whiny.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
All Highlanders are generally quiet, though wind and road noise are noticed at highway speeds. Under acceleration, engines emit a rich, subtle purr, but the Hybrid's electric motor is annoyingly whiny.
Controls
All versions have large, easy-to-read gauges and high-mounted audio and climate controls. The available navigation system is fairly intuitive but absorbs and complicates audio-system adjustments. The Hybrid includes a fuel-economy-indicator gauge behind the steering wheel that shows when it's being driven most efficiently.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
All versions have large, easy-to-read gauges and high-mounted audio and climate controls. The available navigation system is fairly intuitive but absorbs and complicates audio-system adjustments. The Hybrid includes a fuel-economy-indicator gauge behind the steering wheel that shows when it's being driven most efficiently.
Details
The Base model's interior is fitted with above-average-grade plastics and comfortable cloth upholstery. Only the fuzzy headliner feels cheap. Sport models have good-quality suede and metal trim throughout the cabin. The Limited's interior adds some unconvincing faux-wood trim.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
The Base model's interior is fitted with above-average-grade plastics and comfortable cloth upholstery. Only the fuzzy headliner feels cheap. Sport models have good-quality suede and metal trim throughout the cabin. The Limited's interior adds some unconvincing faux-wood trim.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Highlander's seats are nicely supportive, and there's ample headroom and legroom. Forward visibility is good thanks to an elevated seating position. Rear visibility is impaired by 2nd-row headrests and thick rear roof pillars. Entering Highlander requires only a modest step up.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Highlander's seats are nicely supportive, and there's ample headroom and legroom. Forward visibility is good thanks to an elevated seating position. Rear visibility is impaired by 2nd-row headrests and thick rear roof pillars. Entering Highlander requires only a modest step up.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Ample 2nd-row space for two adults on a 40/20/40 split seat that slides fore and aft a few inches to benefit either 2nd- or 3rd-row legroom. The center section of the 2nd-row seat can be configured one of three ways: as a very narrow, sparsely padded seat; as a console with tray table; and as an empty passageway to the 3rd row. The seat and console are interchangeable; the unused one can be slid into a compartment beneath the front console. The 3rd-row bench can seat adults if the 2nd row is moved forward, though they'll sit knees-up and find little foot space. Only the passenger side of the 2nd-row seat moves forward to allow 3rd-row access, though kids could get back there by climbing through the passageway between the 2nd-row seats.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Ample 2nd-row space for two adults on a 40/20/40 split seat that slides fore and aft a few inches to benefit either 2nd- or 3rd-row legroom. The center section of the 2nd-row seat can be configured one of three ways: as a very narrow, sparsely padded seat; as a console with tray table; and as an empty passageway to the 3rd row. The seat and console are interchangeable; the unused one can be slid into a compartment beneath the front console. The 3rd-row bench can seat adults if the 2nd row is moved forward, though they'll sit knees-up and find little foot space. Only the passenger side of the 2nd-row seat moves forward to allow 3rd-row access, though kids could get back there by climbing through the passageway between the 2nd-row seats.
Cargo Room
There's only grocery-bag space behind the 3rd-row seat, but that stows quickly to create a flat floor. The split 2nd-row seatbacks are more cumbersome to fold and don't lay quite flat. Sport and Limited models have a useful separate-opening glass in the rear hatch. Top-notch small item storage includes 10 cupholders and 4 bottle holders, not to mention assorted map pockets and other convenient nooks and crannies.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
There's only grocery-bag space behind the 3rd-row seat, but that stows quickly to create a flat floor. The split 2nd-row seatbacks are more cumbersome to fold and don't lay quite flat. Sport and Limited models have a useful separate-opening glass in the rear hatch. Top-notch small item storage includes 10 cupholders and 4 bottle holders, not to mention assorted map pockets and other convenient nooks and crannies.
Value within Class
Highlander is a competent, refined, family focused SUV that offers great practicality, cargo and passenger versatility, and evident quality. These qualities earn Highlander a Recommended rating. Versions with the conventional V6 engine best represent Highlander's attributes, as the Hybrid models' higher prices may take years to offset in fuel savings.
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 5.8 |
Highlander is a competent, refined, family focused SUV that offers great practicality, cargo and passenger versatility, and evident quality. These qualities earn Highlander a Recommended rating. Versions with the conventional V6 engine best represent Highlander's attributes, as the Hybrid models' higher prices may take years to offset in fuel savings.
Total Score
| 2WD Base | AWD Sport | AWD Limited | AWD Hybrid Limited | Class Average |
| 69 | 69 | 70 | 69 | 63.7 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 53 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 76 |
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2008 Toyota Highlander Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/17/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD Base 4-door wagon | $27,500 | $24,475 | $685 |
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| AWD Base 4-door wagon | $28,950 | $25,765 | $685 |
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| 2WD Sport 4-door wagon | $30,150 | $26,833 | $685 |
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| AWD Sport 4-door wagon | $31,600 | $28,124 | $685 |
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| 2WD Limited 4-door wagon | $32,900 | $29,281 | $685 |
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| AWD Limited 4-door wagon | $34,350 | $30,571 | $685 |
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| AWD Base Hybrid 4-door wagon | $34,200 | $30,780 | $685 |
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| AWD Limited Hybrid 4-door wagon | $40,450 | $36,202 | $685 |
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, driver knee airbag, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, hill ascent control, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front air conditioning, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front captain chairs, center console, 2nd-row split folding rear seat, 3rd-row stowable seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, conversation mirror, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper, automatic-off headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass, rear spoiler.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Full-size spare tire, 245/65R17 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, hill descent control.
Sport adds to Base:
Safety
Daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, 8-way power driver seat, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, rearview camera, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Sport suspension, 245/55R19 tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, hill descent control.
Limited adds to Sport:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, leather upholstery, 4-way power passenger seat, heated power mirrors, keyless access and starting, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, wiper deicer.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Deletes: sport suspension.
AWD adds: all-wheel drive, hill descent control.
Base Hybrid adds to Base:
Powertrain
3.3-liter V6 engine, electric drive motor, continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), all-wheel drive.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, height-adjustable driver seat, heated power mirrors, keyless access and starting, rearview camera, outside-temperature indicator, wiper deicer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: 3rd-row stowable seat.
Theft-deterrent system, trailer-wiring harness.
Limited Hybrid adds to Limited:
Safety
Daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, 3rd-row stowable seat, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, power liftgate, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, roof rails, 245/55R19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Popular Pkg.
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Base Hybrid
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$2,800
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$2,239
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat, 3rd-row seat, illuminated visor mirrors, roof rails, unique rear spoiler, 245/55R19 tires.
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Popular Plus Pkg.
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Base Hybrid
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$3,850
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$3,069
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Popular Pkg. plus AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, universal garage door opener, cargo cover, power liftgate.
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Convenience Pkg.
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Base
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$240
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$192
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Cargo cover, roof rails.
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Cold Weather Pkg.
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Base, Sport
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$60
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$48
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Heated power mirrors, wiper deicer.
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Z1/Z2 Preferred Accessory Pkg.
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$353
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$235
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Base/Sport w/3rd-row seat delete
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$308
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$205
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Cargo net, cargo mat, carpeted floormats, first-aid kit. NA Hybrid.
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Z3/Z4 Preferred Accessory Pkg.
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$308
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$205
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Base/Sport w/3rd-row seat delete
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$263
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$175
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Cargo net, cargo mat, rubber floormats, first-aid kit. NA Hybrid.
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Towing Prep Pkg.
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Base, Base Hybrid, Limited, Limited Hybrid, Sport
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$220
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$176
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Heavy-duty radiator and fan, transmission-oil cooler, heavy-duty alternator, trailer wiring.
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Safety |
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Daytime running lights
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Base, Base Hybrid
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$130
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$104
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Includes automatic headlights.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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Limited Hybrid
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$2,655
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$2,211
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Sport
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$2,530
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$2,118
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Limited
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$2,505
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$2,099
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Sport, Limited, Limited Hybrid include wireless cell phone link, JBL sound system. Replaces 6-disc CD/MP3 changer w/4-disc CD/MP3 changer.
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Dual-zone automatic climate controls
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Sport, Base Hybrid, Limited Hybrid
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$375
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$300
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Rear air conditioning
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Base
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$415
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$332
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Sport
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$385
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$308
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Base Hybrid, Limited Hybrid
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$585
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$468
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NA w/3rd-row seat delete, dual-zone automatic climate controls. Base Hybrid requires Popular Pkg. or Popular Plus Pkg.
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Rear air conditioning w/automatic climate control
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Sport, Limited
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$585
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$468
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Base Hybrid, Limited Hybrid
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$785
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$628
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NA w/3rd-row seat delete. Sport, Base Hybrid, Limited Hybrid require dual-zone automatic climate controls. Base Hybrid requires Popular Pkg. or Popular Plus Pkg.
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Leather upholstery
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Sport
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$1,840
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$1,472
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Sport w/3rd-row seat delete
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$1,490
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$1,192
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Includes heated front seats.
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8-way power driver seat
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Base
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$320
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$256
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NA Base Hybrid.
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Heated front seats
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Limited
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$440
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$352
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3rd-row seat delete
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2WD Base, Sport (credit)
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$-740
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$-592
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Power sunroof
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Sport, Limited, Limited Hybrid
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$850
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$680
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Base
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$910
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$728
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NA Base Hybrid.
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DVD entertainment system
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Sport, Limited, Limited Hybrid
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$1,780
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$1,424
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Requires power sunroof.
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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Base
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$250
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$188
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JBL sound system
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Sport, Limited, Limited Hybrid
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$630
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$473
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Includes wireless cell phone link.
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Satellite radio
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$449
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$359
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NA Hybrid.
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Power liftgate
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Sport, Limited
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$400
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$320
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Universal garage door opener
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Sport
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$125
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$100
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Remote engine start
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$529
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$380
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NA Hybrid.
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Cargo cover
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Base, Base Hybrid
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$90
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$72
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Carpeted floormats
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$275
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$180
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Base/Sport w/3rd-row seat delete
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$185
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$120
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NA Hybrid.
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Rubber floormats
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$230
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$150
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Base/Sport w/3rd-row seat delete
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$185
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$120
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NA Hybrid.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Alarm
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Base
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$280
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$224
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Sport, Base Hybrid, Limited Hybrid
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$220
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$176
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Includes engine immobilizer.
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Engine immobilizer
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Base, Base Hybrid
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$60
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$48
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Roof rails
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Base, Base Hybrid
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$150
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$120
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Sport rear spoiler
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Limited
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$200
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$160
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Std. Sport.
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Running boards
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Base, Limited, Sport
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$649
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$425
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NA Hybrid.
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Mud guards
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Base
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$99
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$60
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Special paint
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Base, Base Hybrid, Limited, Limited Hybrid, Sport
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$220
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$176
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Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Toyota Highlander Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Toyota Highlander 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 109.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 188.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 75.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 69.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3979 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 95.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 40.1 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V6/electric | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.5 /202 | 3.3 /201 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 270 @ 6200 | 270 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 248 @ 4700 | @ |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | 18/24 | --/-- |
| CVT automatic | --/-- | 31/27 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Toyota Highlander 4-door wagon |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | None/-- | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: DVD Rear Seat Entertainment System (9-in LCD Screen, DVD Player, 2 Wireless Headphones); Multi-Stage Heated Front Seats; Navigation System with Voice Activation and JBL AM/FM 4-Disc CD Changer with Hands-Free Phone Capability via Bluetooth, Satellite Ready Capability, MP3/WMA Playback Capability & 9 Speakers); Power Rear Door; Auto Rear Air Conditioning System; Color-Keyed Sport Styled Rear Spoiler, Power Tilt/Slide Moonroof w/Sunshade; Tow Prep Package (5000 lb Towing Capacity, Heavy Duty Radiator w/Engine Oil Cooler, 200w Fan Coupling, Transmission Oil Cooler w/Water Cooler, 150 amp Alternator, Pre-Wire Harmess); Carpet/Cargo Mat - 3 Row Seating Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 15.81 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Rick Cotta Highlander reminds me of a genius student who got an A minus on an exam because he missed the easiest question. And the question was, "How do you design a second-row seat?" You know it's an easy one because almost everyone else gets it right. This snafu aside, only a rear-visibility problem blemishes what is otherwise a terrific midsize SUV. Toyota's reputation for quality has also been blemished of late, but only time will tell if that affliction affects the new Highlander. Tom Appel Highlander returns much as the previous generation left; it's a refined, capable family hauler. Prices are high, but the biggest disappointment here is the apparent lack of improvement over the last generation. Indeed, interior materials have slipped somewhat in quality, and overall assembly no longer sets the class benchmark. This is still a fine truck, but like the recently redesigned Camry, this new Highlander doesn't feel much better than the old one. |
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Toyota Highlander Full Review
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