2010 Toyota Highlander Review

Overview

Toyota's midsize SUV Highlander comes in Base, Sport, Limited and Hybrid grades in both two-wheel (2WD) and full-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) models for 2010. A four-cylinder engine is standard on the Base grade with 2WD. All Highlander Hybrid models are equipped with four-wheel-drive with intelligence and available in Base and Limited grades. For 2010, the Base grade models get new options. The base four-cylinder model, added to the lineup for 2009, now offers a power tilt/slide moonroof, and the Base V6 model now offers a backup camera with a monitor in the multi-information display.

Power and performance

The Base trim runs on a 189 horsepower; 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine (EPA-estimated 26 MPG in highway driving). A 270-hp, 3.5-liter, V6 engine is standard on the Sport, and Limited trims, and optional on the Base (EPA estimate of 24 MPG in highway driving -2WD). All these engines equipped with a variable intake manifold and dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i). Every engine is teamed with a five-speed electronically controlled transmission (ECT), which offers fully automatic shifting as well as selectable manual sequential shifting.

Body and styling

The five-passenger Base model gets rearview camera monitor; 17-inch alloy wheels and air conditioning as standard features. The Limited is given 19-inch alloy wheels; a power rear liftgate; heated front seats; third row bench seat which takes the seating capacity to seven (optional on the Base), and leather upholstery. Major exterior features include multi-reflector halogen headlamps with auto on/off feature; integrated fog lamps; color-keyed foldable power outside mirrors; UV-reducing glass windshield; washer-linked variable intermittent windshield wipers; rear window with electric defogger and intermittent wiper. In-glass antenna with FM diversity reception; a front defroster-linked CFC-free air conditioning system with air filter; AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability and six speakers are some of the important standard interior features of the Highlander.

Safety Features

Toyota's Star Safety System includes enhanced vehicle stability control with cutoff switch; traction control; anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist in the 2010 Toyota Highlander. Driver and front passenger advanced airbag system; three-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags; start assist control; downhill assist control; side-impact door beams; direct tire pressure monitor system; emergency locking retractor on driver's belt; automatic/emergency locking retractors on all passenger belts and overhead curtain airbags for all rows are among the myriad standard safety equipment for the Toyota Highlander.