2012 Toyota Highlander Review

Overview

Toyota's mid-size SUV Highlander comes in Base, SE, Limited and Hybrid grades in both two-wheel (2WD) and full-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) models for 2012. 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.

Power and performance

The Base models runs on a 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine rated at 189 hp (EPA-estimated 26 MPG in highway driving). A 270-hp, 3.5-liter, V6 engine is optional for the base and SE and standard for the Highlander Limited. A five-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. A properly equipped Highlander tows up to 5,000 pounds. With front-wheel drive, the Highlander V6 delivers 18 city/24 highway/20 combined mpg; the all-wheel drive models yield 17/22/19.

Body and styling

The 2012 Toyota Highlander comes with sophisticated design updates including new front fascia, hood and fenders, with redesigned headlights, tail lamps and 17-inch alloy wheels, give the crossover sport utility vehicle a more dynamic, contemporary presence. The upgraded equipment and technology features, such as 50/50 split third-row seating, rear climate control and enhanced audio system, are among the improvements. 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 2011 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.