What Is the 2019 Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV that competes with the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder. It’s available in gas-only or gas-electric hybrid form. The base LE trim level comes with a 185-horsepower, 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Other gas models use a 295-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and an eight-speed automatic; V-6 versions can have front- or all-wheel drive.
All Highlander Hybrid models come with a hybrid system that features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electric motors. Total system output is 306 hp, and all Highlander Hybrids have all-wheel drive.
What’s New on the 2019 Toyota Highlander?
With a redesigned Highlander coming as a 2020 model, changes to the 2019 version are limited to minor trim updates. The SE trim level gets new smoked headlights and taillights, black wheels and black-chrome LED foglights. Limited and Platinum versions have chrome LED foglights.
What Features in the 2019 Toyota Highlander Are Most Important?
The Highlander’s three-row configuration has standard seating for eight; available second-row captain’s chairs reduce seating capacity to seven. Standard active safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are available. Other options include leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a power moonroof, a rear-seat entertainment system and a 360-degree camera system.
Should I Buy the 2019 Toyota Highlander?
The Highlander has long been a good choice for families looking for a reliable SUV with strong resale value. Its available hybrid drivetrain is uncommon for the class. That said, the current model is at the end of its run; the new 2020 Highlander hits dealerships in late 2019. That may make for some deals on current models, but buyers looking for the latest technology will want to wait for the 2020 version.
