 2008 Highlander | 2008 Highlander Hybrid | 2010 Highlander  | 2010 Highlander Hybrid |
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Image credits: © Toyota.
MSRP: $27,600-41,020
Invoice: $24,560-36,710
2009 Toyota Highlander news, pictures, and information | ||
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NEW-GENERATION TOYOTA HIGHLANDER GETS NEW FOUR-CYLINDER MODEL FOR 2009
Toyota introduced the all-new second-generation Highlander sports utility vehicle (SÚV) for 2008 and is adding an additional model wîth a new four-cylinder engine for 2009.The second-generation Highlander is significantly larger, roomier and more powerful than the vehicle it replaces, yet still has excellent fuel efficiency. The new Highlander is noticeably quieter and more spacious wîth enhanced versatility and ride comfort. It is among the leaders in providing standard active and passive safety equipment in a §egmènt where safety is at the top of purchase considerations.
The 2009 Highlander is available in Base, Sport and Limited grades in both two-wheel (2WD) and full-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) models. The new four-cylinder engine is standard on the Base grade wîth 2WD. All Highlander Hybrid models are equipped wîth four-wheel-drive wîth intelligence and available in Base and Limited grades.
Performance and EfficiencyThe Toyota Highlander offers three distinct types of performance: a new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine joins the line, offering an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in highway driving. The new 2.7-liter engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb.-ft. of peak torque while providing excellent fuel efficiency. The engine is equipped wîth a variable intake manifold and dual variable valve timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i), which controls phasing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize torque and fuel efficiency. Both of these technologies help give the new 2.7-liter engine a broad torque curve for strong response at all engine speeds. The new four-cylinder engine is teamed exclusively wîth a standard six-speed electronically-controlled automatic overdrive transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
Standard on Highlander Sport and Limited grades and optional on the Base grade is the 3.5-liter V6 that produces 270 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 RPM. This engine, also, is equipped wîth dual VVT-i and a variable intake manifold. The V6 Highlander has an EPA estimate of 24 MPG in highway driving (2WD). Each engine is mated to a five-speed electronically controlled transmission (ECT), which offers fully automatic shifting as well as selectable manumatic sequential shifting.
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 3.5 L., 6-cylinder Power: 270 hp Torque: 248 ft-lbs Engine : 2.7 L., 4-cylinder Power: 187 hp | |
5-speed Automatic | |
The 4WD Highlander Hybrid uniquely generates rear-wheel power wîth a separate 45-kW electric motor (MGR) that provides up to 96 lb.-ft. of additional drive torque on demand. Thus, the Highlander Hybrid 4WD-i does not require power-transfer gearing or a driveshaft from the front. The system electronically varies front and rear torque distribution depending on traction conditions.Activating an EV mode switch located on the front center console allows the driver to operate strictly in electric-mode under certain conditions for a limited distance at low speeds, or in certain stop-and-go driving conditions. The resulting benefit is reduced fuel consumption, emissions and noise. A new ECON drive mode switch activates a throttle control program that smoothes out the throttle response. This action helps limit excessive acceleration thereby helping to enhance fuel economy.
A third new fuel saving feature is a Hybrid System Indicator located on the left side of the Optitron combination meter. This feature provides the driver wîth a guideline to help reduce fuel consumption. When the driver increases acceleration, the Hybrid System Indicator automatically switches to 'acceleration mode' and encourages the driver to keep the power meter needle within white dashes to help achieve maximum fuel economy.
Handling and Ride
The 2009 Highlander builds on the previous-generation model's excellent reputation for providing agile handling and a smooth, quiet ride. Four-wheel independent suspension is via MacPherson struts in front and a dual-link strut rear suspension system. Sport-tuned suspension on the Sport grade sharpens handling responses.Base Highlander models are equipped wîth standard 17-inch alloy wheels wîth 245/65 R17 tires. Sport and Limited models get standard 19-inch alloy wheels wîth 245/55 R19 tires. A direct tire pressure warning system is designed to alert the driver if pressure in a tire drops to critical levels. All Highlander models are equipped wîth four-wheel disc brakes. On conventional Highlander 4WD models, full-time four-wheel drive is available on all grades.
As wîth all Toyota SÚVs for the last four years, Highlander comes standard wîth Toyota's Star Safety System™, which includes enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) wîth Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA).
Enhanced VSC helps the driver maintain control by automatically adjusting engine output and braking force at each wheel under certain conditions while also providing §teering assistance in the appropriate direction through Electric Power Steering (EPS). Únlike conventional ABS, TRAC, VSC and EPS, which operate independently of each other, the enhanced VSC system integrates all of these features to enhance vehicle maneuverability in all traction conditions. Gas Highlander models are also equipped wîth a straight-line §teering feature. When varying traction causes ABS to apply different left/right braking force, the system can apply §teering torque to help offset left/right pull.
The Highlander Hybrid employs the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM system is designed to enhance handling, traction and braking systems that normally react to vehicle driving conditions by anticipating tire slippage before a skid, slide or wheel spin occurs and helps make corrections in a smooth, progressive way. In addition to integrating all of the Highlander's dynamic control systems (VSC, TRAC, BA, EPS, EBD and ABS), the VDIM system also employs powerful proprietary software to integrate the Electronic Throttle Control wîth intelligence (ETC-i) and Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB).All Highlanders also incorporate a corner-braking feature. Also harnessing the integration of the vehicle's dynamic control systems, this feature helps the driver steer in the direction that offers greatest control.
Two additional electronic/hydraulic systems, though not part of enhanced VSC, are also designed to help improve driver confidence and control. Standard on all Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models, Hill-Start Assist Control is designed to help prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards from a stop when traveling up a steep hill. This system provides braking pressure to all four wheels for approximately two seconds to prevent a backward rolling motion, therefore helping to ensure a smooth start.
Downhill Assist Control (DAC), standard equipment on all gas 4WD models, helps control downhill speed when engine braking is not sufficient. The DAC feature is designed to maintain a constant speed, and maintain handling and §teering control by reducing wheel lock under braking even at slow speeds on slippery descents.Safety
With a §egmènt-leading total of seven airbags Highlander provides the most inclusive airbag coverage ever equipped in a Toyota mid-size SÚV. These include advanced driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and a driver's knee airbag. Roll-sensing side curtain airbags help to protect the occupants of all three rows in the event of certain side collisions or vehicle rollovers. Additionally, all Highlander models are now standard equipped wîth front active headrests.
Comfort and Convenience
Standard features on all Highlander models include air conditioning; front seats wîth height-adjustable active head rests and eight-way (10-way on Limited) adjustable driver's seat; power door locks and windows wîth driver's window jam protection and auto-up/down feature; cruise control; multi-function keyless entry system; ÚV-reduction windshield and rear privacy glass; digital clock; dual sun visors wîth vanity mirrors and sliding extensions; conversation mirror; illuminated entry system; manual tilt and telescopic §teering wheel; scheduled maintenance indicator light; full-size spare tire; and much more.
Base and Sport models feature a standard AM/FM/CD audio system wîth six-speakers; Limited models upgrade to an AM/FM/six-disc in-dash CD changer wîth six speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability and satellite radio capability. All audio systems are equipped wîth a universal mini-jack.
Sport and Limited grades feature a standard backup camera wîth a 3.5-inch multi-information display. The display includes a backup camera monitor, clock, outside temperature, warning messages, and cruise information that includes average fuel economy, average speed, distance to empty, current fuel economy, and trip timer. On models equipped wîth the optional navigation system, the backup camera's images are viewed on the seven-inch navigation screen.
Options
A variety of options and accessories are offered, including a power rear door that can be opened and closed wîth a key fob; a voice-activated touch screen navigation system wîth an eight-inch screen, JBL premium audio wîth a four-disc changer, nine speakers and Bluetooth® technology and satellite ready capability, a rear-seat entertainment system wîth a nine-inch screen; three-zone air conditioning; JBL premium audio wîth six-disc changer, nine speakers and Bluetooth® technology and satellite ready capability; leather seat trim and multi-stage heated seats, and a power tilt/slide moonroof. The optional tow package enables up to 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity (V6 gas models only), one of the highest in Highlander's class while the four-cylinder tow package enables up to 3,500 pounds of maximum towing capacity.
Exterior Design
The new Highlander moves away from traditional SÚV styling cues. Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif. sculpted clean, crisp lines, a wide, stable stance and muscular contours to give Highlander an advanced, contemporary, assertive and dynamic personality.
The Base grade Highlander could be mistaken for an upgrade model wîth its six-spoke 17-inch machined alloy wheels, color-keyed power remote outside mirrors, silver-painted front grille, silver-painted rear license plate garnish, a black rear lower bumper cover and black rear step bumper cover.
The Highlander Sport can be identified by its 19-inch five-spoke machined alloy wheels wîth a dark silver-painted insert finish, dark-silver painted roof rails, smoked chrome front grille surround and inserts, dark silver-painted rear license plate garnish, chrome exhaust tip, sport-styled rear spoiler, fog lamps, smoked head lamp and tail lamp lenses, color-keyed rear lower bumper cover and sport badging.
The upscale Limited looks the luxury part wîth chrome grille and inserts, chrome door handles, puddle lamps, fog lamps, light silver-painted roof rails, chrome grille surround and light silver-painted rear license plate garnish, and rear spoiler.
The Base grade Highlander Hybrid is distinguished by a front grille wîth chrome surround and silver-painted fins, silver-painted rear license plate garnish, blue-tinted headlight and taillight lenses, black fog lamp covers, silver-painted lower bumper cover, rear spoiler wîth LED stop lamp, 17-inch alloy wheels wîth 245/ 65 R17 tires, and Hybrid Synergy Drive badging. Highlander Hybrid Limited adds 19-inch, 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, light silver-painted roof rails, rear glass hatch, and a power rear door.
Interior Design
The second-generation Highlander provides an open, airy and versatile interior wîth seating for seven or up to 95.4 cubic feet of total cargo capacity (94.1 for Highlander Hybrid). Compared to the previous-generation Highlander, the new model's interior is more than four inches longer, front-to-back, and is also wider, yielding additional room between each of the three rows of seats. There are numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, along wîth ten cup holders, four bottle holders, two front and one cargo-area 12-volt auxiliary power outlets and cargo area tie down hooks.
The Highlander is as much as six decibels quieter than its predecessor, thanks to new noise-reduction measures. Inside, the Highlander features new Optitron gauges. The Base and Sport grades feature a center console, shift knob wîth silver-painted accents and front driver and passenger assist grips.
On the Sport grade the assist grips are accented in silver-painted trim. The center console, shift knob and assist grip on the Limited grade feature satin-mahogany wood grain-style trim.
The Highlander Hybrid is equipped wîth a unique instrument panel, including an energy monitor that adds new features to assist the driver in maximizing fuel economy. Styling features on the inside of the Highlander Hybrid include a silver and birch-wood grain-style interior trim wîth chrome door handle accents, Optitron meters wîth blue graphics and a power meter wîth a hybrid system indicator.
The headrests are adjustable in two ways on the Base grade and four different ways on Sport and Limited. The second row provides 40/20/40 split seatbacks. The seat functions as either a three-person bench or, by removing the Center Stow™ seat, a pair of captain's chairs complete wîth armrests, creating a convenient walk-through area between the seats for easier access to the third row of seats. A Center Stow™ center console can also be placed between the seats to provide additional storage. The second row also slides fore and aft 4.7 inches and reclines. Highlander offers available rear air conditioning for second- and third-row passengers.
Access to the third-row has been improved, not only by adding the Center Stow™ seat, but also by placing the walk-in lever at an easy to reach position at the bottom of the second-row seat. Standard on Highlander Sport and Limited grades, one-touch levers inside the cargo area allow the second-row seats to fold forward and flat.
The third-row seats function in a similar manner, using a lever in the back of the seat. Highlander 2WD Base and both 2WD and 4WD Sport models are also available
with a two-row seat package. The rear door offers a power operation as an option (standard on Highlander Hybrid Limited and not available on gas Base grades). The new four-cylinder model also comes standard wîth two rows of seats and an available third row seat package. Smart Start and Entry is standard on the Highlander Limited and Hybrid models.Source - Toyota
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2009| Comparable Vehicles | |
| Chevrolet Trailblazer | ($29,155-39,330) |
| Chevrolet Traverse | ($28,255-41,025) |
| Dodge Durango | ($28,130-45,040) |
| Ford Edge | ($26,130-35,095) |
| Ford Explorer | ($26,995-37,705) |
| Ford Explorer Sport Trac | ($25,985-33,670) |
| Ford Flex | ($28,295-36,555) |
| Ford Taurus X | ($27,575-33,480) |
| Honda Pilot | ($27,595-39,995) |
| Jeep Commander | ($28,980-45,710) |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | ($29,650-44,045) |
| Kia Borrego | ($26,245-32,995) |
| Mazda CX-9 | ($29,820-35,205) |
| Nissan Murano | ($26,870-36,450) |
| Nissan Pathfinder | ($27,210-40,210) |
| Pontiac Torrent | ($24,820-31,415) |
| Saturn Outlook | ($30,320-36,145) |
| Subaru Tribeca | ($29,995-33,595) |
| Suzuki XL7 | ($25,595-29,980) |
| Toyota 4Runner | ($28,640-39,360) |
| Toyota Venza | ($25,975-29,250) |
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| Manufacturer Website |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
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| 2000 GT 4Runner Avalon Camry | Celica Coaster Corolla Corona | FJ Cruiser GT-One GT86 Highlander | Land Cruiser Land Cruiser 40 Series Land Cruiser 70 Matrix | MR2 Prius RAV4 Sequoia | Sienna Starlet Supra Tacoma | Tundra Venza Yaris |
| 2008 Highlander | 2008 Highlander Hybrid | 2010 Highlander | 2010 Highlander Hybrid |
