2008 Toyota Highlander
A Highlander for the Lowlands
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The 2008 Highlander, on sale later this month, is an all-new version of the currently popular and successful model. The 2008 version takes advantage of the latest Toyota Camry/Lexus ES350 platform, just like the previous-generation Highlander did of the 2006 Camry chassis, offering drivers tons of the current vehicular vogue--on-road car-like quiet and smoothness in a semi-butch and versatile SUV costume. Many would argue that Toyota pioneered this "crossover" vehicle combination with the introduction of the 1996 RAV4 and the first-gen Highlander, and after driving several of the 2008 versions, I can tell you that Toyota is not going to concede that leadership to Honda, GM or Hyundai any time soon. While slightly smaller inside and out when compared to some of the competitive models in this hyper-competitive segment, it is several inches longer than the outgoing model, which allows for the oddly all-important 3rd row seating option. (Does the crossover buyer of 2007 feel some strange sense of guilt if their vehicle does not have some semblance of seats all the way in the back?) The new Highlander will "keep up with the Joneses," but it does not sacrifice efficiency or intelligence in the race.
As previously mentioned, the extra overall length allows for a 3rd row seat option for passengers six and seven, and my 6'3" frame found a semi-comfortable position for short drives. Of particular interest is the innovative 2nd seating row that can quickly convert from a cozy three-seat bench configuration to an attractive two-seat combo. Add to the recipe a uniquely-designed center console and you have an easy to access and very child-friendly seating package.
2008 Toyota Highlander
Driving experience is typically confident and drama-free. Nothing to inspire passion or pride, but easy to use and love. Standard on all trim levels is the reasonably-new 3.5 liter V6 found in other gems such as the Camry, Avalon, RX, ES, and GS350. The new hybrid version delivers the latest and greatest "Hybrid Synergy Drive" experience with near-imperceptible switches between electric and gasoline propulsion while providing plenty of typical hybrid torque.
On the negative side, I was somewhat surprised at the material quality of some of the interior components, chiefly the black plastic one-piece upper dash. While the right grain and design to limit annoying reflections on the inside of the windshield, the surface was prone to light scratches and smudges from daily items such as maps and fingerprints. Since this vehicle will appeal to families, I would have expected Toyota to use a more durable material on such a visually important area. Driving experience is almost minivan-like in its lack of engagement, but there is plenty of proof that this is exactly what the target buyer is looking for to combat the all-too-often engaging (and noisy) underage human payload. Also noted was the similarity of the new Highlander's 'face' to that found on the current Subaru Forester front-end. Neither is offensive, but neither will ever win a beauty contest.
As the V6 is the only engine option, and the vehicle has grown approximately 400 lbs. compared to the 2007 version, mileage ratings are not a bold leap forward. Many of the attending media at the drive event questioned the lack of a 4-cylinder option for those looking for extra time between fill-ups, but the corporate answer was that the new V6 offers the best of all worlds in a larger and better-equipped package. This might be true, but Toyota's reputation for fuel efficiency will be challenged by the '08's EPA combined rating of 19 MPG for the AWD model. As of press time, the hybrid model had not yet been tested, but after 60 miles of mixed driving, the on-board computer meekly told me I averaged just 25 MPG. Good, but not great.
Overall, the 2008 Highlander forces no compromises when compared to the outgoing model, other than the lack of a 4-cylinder engine option. Everything else is a positive gain, from a larger and more visually appealing exterior design to the flexible, innovative and easy-to-live-with interior. You will not be the envy of your block with one of these in your garage, but you will never need to explain yourself, either. The Highlander's reputation as solid and responsible SUV-like vehicle remains intact and might even be enhanced with a design that should age much more gracefully than the outgoing model.
Posted on 2007-06-25 | Permalink | 
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