The fierce competition in the automotive industry has brought on much progress in both business strategy and engineering. The gap between manufacturers has narrowed under such peer pressure, and the recent new cars from various manufacturers all meet a certain standard, while at the same time bring something distinctive. This week, I test drove the Toyota Highlander.
Mature and Assured
The 2008 AWD model of the Highlander used for this test drive was metallic Blue Streak in colour and had a black leather interior.
Distinctive features of the exterior included the hood lines, and the protruding taillights that integrate into the extra-wide wheel wells. The design maintains Toyota's modest, neutral, and assuring qualities, while tirelessly pursuing refinement of the details.
Gentle Comfort
It's hard to complain about the Highlander's ride. The 3.5-L 2GR-FE engine unleashes its power smoothly for a gentle start from rest. In motion, whether accelerating, braking, or turning, it remains gentle and refined.
The 3.5 L V6 engine greatly contributes to this gentleness. The Highlander's virtue is a smooth, comfortable ride and a powerful engine. Accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.2s demonstrates that it is a very capable engine, but this power is delivered with control and finesse. The muscle is unleashed only when you floor the gas pedal. The acceleration is easy and effortless: the car can go from 40 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds without flooring the pedal. This engine is mated with a 5-speed automatic transmission that delivers the power while maintaining a respectable fuel economy. The gauges also have a contemporary look.
Seating for Seven
The Highlander provides three rows of seating that accommodate up to seven people. The second row consists of two captain's chairs that can be connected with a Center Stow Seat™ that turns the second row into bench seating for three. When not in use, the Center Stow Seat is easily stored in a hidden compartment under the Centre Console. Alternatively, this Stow Seat can also be folded and serve as a small table. This versatility surpasses the options provided by some mini-vans.
Full of the Latest Gadgets
The Highlander is equipped with a 3.5-inch screen in the Centre Console to display such information as the outside temperature, cabin temperature, and the time. This screen also switches to the rear camera when the vehicle is in reverse.
The Highlander features a pop-up hatch glass that can be opened independently from the rear hatch itself, making it easier to retrieve luggage from the back.
This car is equipped with independent climate control for the back seats, with air vents above the second and third row seats on the sides.
Nowadays high-tech electronic circuitry is a necessity for safety. The Highlander is equipped with vehicle stability control (VSC), hill-start assist control (HAC), downhill assist control (DAC), and traction control (TRAC). HAC "holds" the vehicle for 2-3 seconds to prevent it from rolling backwards on a slope. DAC is the opposite. The system monitors wheel speed and makes adjustments to maintain a low vehicle speed without causing wheel lock up.
Overall, for those who seek a comfortable, relaxed cruise, the Highlander is the car for you.
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