Toyota unveiled its next generation 2008 Highlander car-type SUV at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. The new mid-size Highlander will be four inches longer and three inches wider than the previous generation. A third-row seat is now standard. It was previously optional. A 3.5-liter V6 engine develops 270 horsepower--55 more than the 3.3-liter V6 it replaces. Toyota claims fuel economy is virtually unchanged in spite of the extra size and power. A four-cylinder engine will not be offered until the 2009 model year. Highlander shares a platform with the current Toyota Camry and Avalon. As before, Highlanders have standard antilock four-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, traction control, and an antiskid system. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags with rollover sensors are standard as well. A driver knee airbag, active head restraints, and backup camera are newly available features. Toyota hasn't announced pricing, but Highlander will be in dealerships in July.

Also introduced was the 2008 Highlander Hybrid version of the conventional Highlander. A revised electric hybrid drive system delivers the same fuel economy as last year's model despite a 500-pound weight increase. Highlander Hybrids will be in showrooms in September, but pricing has not yet been announced.

2008 Toyota Highlander
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