So it’s time to upgrade your vehicle for a quality built family car. One popular model drivers turn to time and time again is the Toyota Highlander. This midsize SUV offers many of the features families want and love. Plus, it’s one of its class’s most highly rated SUVs. Let’s take a look at some of the main pros and cons that define Toyota’s Highlander and see if this popular SUV is the right fit for your family.
Where Does the Toyota Highlander Shine?
The Highlander packs a ton of features that are sure to please the whole family. And Safety Sense technology will keep your most precious cargo safe and sound.
1. A Spacious, Comfortable Cabin
The Highlander is known for offering a spacious and comfortable cabin. The latest models have a slew of comfort features, including leather, heated, and power seats. Even as you drive, you can expect a quiet cabin that adds to the comfort of the ride. Ample cargo space in the back and fold-down rear seats allow you to tote around all your gear as well. Fold down the second and third rows, and you’ll be able to carry around even more gear.
2. Impressive Standard Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for all families. Toyota understands this and has included a slew of standard driver aids. Toyota Safety Sense suite is included on every model of the Highlander. Driver assists include adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, traffic sign reader, lane trace assist, and much more. Of course, as you move up the different models, you can look forward to additional add-on safety features too.
3. Excellent Fuel Economy
As with any Toyota, you know you’re getting great fuel economy. The same goes for the Highlander. Despite having a larger engine, drivers can look forward to an estimated EPA of 24 MPG. When you bump up to all-wheel-drive models, you’ll lose one MPG in fuel efficiency. Still, this is pretty impressive fuel economy for a midsize SUV, making the highlander a perfect fit for families always on the go.
4. Built with Toyota’s Powerful V6 Engine
The Highlander is equipped with a powerful 3.5L V6 engine and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This V6 delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. And while you probably won’t be pushing the pedal to the metal in your family vehicle, the Highlander can reach speeds of 0 to 60 in roughly 7.5 seconds. Not bad for a midsize SUV.
Where Does the Toyota Highlander Fall Short?
While the Highlander is a quality-built vehicle, there are a couple of cons you should expect. For the most part, these cons really affect you if it’s your first time driving around in an SUV.
1. Bulky Body Can Be Difficult to Drive
The Highlander is a midsize SUV, and you’ll certainly feel this when you’re behind the wheel. If it’s your first time driving one, the bulky feeling of the body style does come with a slight learning curve. Navigating through parking lots and narrow streets might be tricky for those not comfortable in larger SUVs.
2. Tight Third Row
While the Toyota Highlander offers plenty of cabin space, adults will find the third-row seating to be a bit tight. Luckily, seeing as this is a family vehicle, that third row is perfect for kiddos and their gear.
Is the Toyota Highlander Right for Your family?
The Toyota Highlander offers the perfect mix of comfort, power, and reliability. Plus, a slew of comfort, tech, and safety features make this the ideal vehicle for families on the go. If you’re looking to upgrade your ride into a quality-built SUV, the Highlander is certainly a model that stands out. Even if you shop for a used Toyota Highlander for sale, you can look forward to a dependable engine, great handling, and great comfort and safety features.
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