Vehicle Overview The Highlander received a new four-cylinder base version last year. A 3.5-liter V-6 powers most trims. A gas/electric Highlander Hybrid is also offered. The hybrid is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section. Competitors to the five- or seven-seat Highlander include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9.
New for 2010 There are no significant changes for 2010.
Exterior The Highlander is sleeker than its predecessor and features smooth sides. It retains the upright D-pillar of the prior model, and the liftgate can have a glass section that opens independently. Trim levels include the Base, Sport and Limited.
Standard 17-inch wheels
Optional 19-inch wheels
Optional fog lights
Available power liftgate
Interior Two rows of seats with capacity for five are standard; most trims have a third row, which increases capacity to seven. The sliding and reclining second-row captain’s chairs can be configured to handle three people with Toyota’s Center Stow seat, which can be removed and stored when not needed. The two-person third row folds into the floor.
Standard power windows, remote keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning
Six-speaker CD stereo with MP3 jack
Available six-CD JBL stereo
Available power driver’s seat
Available power passenger’s seat
Available keyless access with push-button start
Optional backup camera
Available navigation system
Available leather upholstery and heated seats
Available backseat entertainment system
Under the Hood Engine choices include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V-6.
Four-cylinder makes 187 horsepower and 186 pounds-feet of torque
V-6 produces 270 hp and 248 pounds-feet of torque
Six-speed automatic (four-cylinder)
Five-speed automatic (V-6)
3,500-pound maximum towing capacity (four-cylinder)
