38 Facts About Toyota Highlander

Toyota Highlander: A Popular Choice

The Toyota Highlander has been a favorite among families and adventure seekers alike. Known for its reliability, comfort, and versatility, this SUV has a lot to offer. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about the Toyota Highlander.

1. The Toyota Highlander was first introduced in 2000 as a 2001 model. It was one of the first car-based mid-size SUVs or "crossovers."

2. The Highlander is known as the Toyota Kluger in Japan and Australia. "Kluger" means "clever" or "wise" in German.

3. The first-generation Highlander shared its platform with the Toyota Camry, making it more car-like in its handling and ride comfort.

4. In 2005, the Highlander Hybrid was introduced, making it the first seven-passenger hybrid SUV on the market.

5. The Highlander has consistently received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Engine and Performance

The Highlander offers a range of engines and performance features that cater to different driving needs. Here are some key points about its engine and performance.

6. The 2021 Highlander comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.

7. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine is also available, offering a combined 243 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency.

8. The Highlander Hybrid can achieve up to 36 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

9. All-wheel drive is available on both the gas and hybrid models, providing better traction and control in various driving conditions.

10. The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for hauling trailers or boats.

Interior and Comfort

The Highlander is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Its interior features make it a great choice for families and long trips.

11. The Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, with a spacious third row that can accommodate adults.

12. Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard, allowing the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to set their own temperature preferences.

13. The second-row seats can slide and recline, providing extra comfort and flexibility for passengers.

14. The Highlander comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12.3-inch display available on higher trims.

15. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility are standard, making it easy to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps.

Safety and Technology

Safety and technology are top priorities for the Highlander. Here are some of the advanced features that help keep you and your passengers safe.

16. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety features that includes pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.

17. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard on all trims, helping you stay aware of your surroundings.

18. The Highlander offers a 360-degree camera system, providing a bird's-eye view of the vehicle to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

19. A head-up display is available on higher trims, projecting important information like speed and navigation directions onto the windshield.

20. The Highlander features up to five USB ports, ensuring that all passengers can keep their devices charged on the go.

Awards and Recognition

The Highlander has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, highlighting its quality and reliability.

21. The Highlander has been named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS multiple times, recognizing its excellent crash test performance and safety features.

22. In 2020, the Highlander was named the Best Buy in the Midsize SUV category by Kelley Blue Book.

23. The Highlander has consistently ranked high in J.D. Power's Vehicle Dependability Study, reflecting its long-term reliability.

24. The Highlander Hybrid has been recognized for its fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness, earning awards from organizations like the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

25. The Highlander has been praised for its resale value, often ranking among the top vehicles in its class for retaining its value over time.

Fun and Interesting Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about the Highlander that you might find interesting.

26. The Highlander was featured in the 2005 movie "War of the Worlds," driven by Tom Cruise's character.

27. The name "Highlander" was chosen to evoke images of adventure and rugged terrain, fitting for an SUV.

28. The Highlander has been a popular choice for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, thanks to its spacious interior and comfortable ride.

29. The Highlander has been sold in over 20 countries worldwide, making it a global success for Toyota.

30. The Highlander has a unique feature called "Driver Easy Speak," which uses a microphone to amplify the driver's voice through the rear speakers, making it easier to communicate with passengers in the back.

Future of the Highlander

The Highlander continues to evolve with new technologies and features. Here's a glimpse into what the future holds for this popular SUV.

31. Toyota plans to introduce more advanced hybrid and electric powertrains in future Highlander models, further improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

32. The Highlander is expected to receive more advanced driver-assistance features, including semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

33. Toyota is exploring the use of sustainable materials in the Highlander's interior, such as recycled plastics and eco-friendly fabrics.

34. Future Highlander models may feature even more advanced infotainment systems, with larger screens and enhanced connectivity options.

35. Toyota is committed to improving the Highlander's off-road capabilities, making it an even more versatile vehicle for adventure seekers.

Highlander in the Market

The Highlander has a strong presence in the SUV market, competing with other popular models. Here are some key points about its market position.

36. The Highlander competes with other mid-size SUVs like the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse.

37. The Highlander has consistently been one of Toyota's best-selling models, with over 200,000 units sold annually in the United States alone.

38. The Highlander's combination of reliability, comfort, and advanced features has made it a top choice for families and individuals alike.

Final Thoughts on Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander stands out for its reliability, comfort, and versatility. Whether you're hauling kids to soccer practice or embarking on a road trip, this SUV has got you covered. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a top choice for families and adventurers alike. Plus, with a strong resale value, it's a smart investment.

From its sleek design to its powerful performance, the Highlander continues to impress year after year. If you're in the market for a vehicle that combines practicality with style, the Toyota Highlander should be at the top of your list. So, next time you're car shopping, give the Highlander a test drive. You might just find it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle.