Toyota Highlander 2008

By Benjamin Cyr

An oversized RAV4

Yes indeed, that was my impression while driving the new 2008 Highlander. This is not a knock because the recent RAV4 generation shows a lot of promise. The price of the aforementioned starts at $ 29,400 and reaches $ 38,000 with the full option package Limited while the Highlander, however, begins at $39, 650 and climbs to $53,000 for the Limited version. What a difference!

How much more does it offer?

Since it’s the first thing you notice, let’s begin with this new SUV’s size. This Highlander cuts a much larger swath than the preceding model; in fact, it has gained 10 cm in length, 8cm in width and the wheelbase stretches by 7.5 cm .Bigger means heavier and so the 2007 model puts on an extra 110 kg.

The lines of the 2008 model have nothing in common with the previous offering. It now sports a modern “du jour” look. The interior gets a make over as well. The result is an assembly beyond reproach. The bigger Highlander now boasts a much augmented interior volume. The height and floor clearance of the first and second rows will accommodate everyone. The third row, a basic option child, would, unfortunately, not be recommendable to anyone who plans to sit comfortably for several hours. It would suit children, though, or adults, if tucked away in the floor, thereby increasing the rather stingy storage volume of 291 litres behind the third row. Volume climbs to 1200 litres with that row folded down.
As to motorization, say goodbye to the 3.2 litre engine. The fabled and ubiquitous Toyota 3.5 litre takes over (even in the RAV4). Wedded to a five-speed automatic transmission, it develops 270 hp. Acceleration is better than before, even with the extra weight. This new power unit allows towing of a 2270 kg (5000 pounds). Note, on the other hand, the absence of a 4 cylinder unit. A hybrid version producing 270 hp as well but using the older 3.3 litre V6, will be available in the fall of 2007. Both versions (gas and hybrid) offer roughly equivalent performances but the Highlander hybrid consumes 25% less fuel.

We liked

• the excellent performance of the engine which makes the Highlander one of this category’s fastest SUVs.;
• the fact that security is a priority with many features already included in the basic option package: all-wheel drive, seven airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction electronic control system, etc.;
• the ease of handling backed up by a very good suspension given the size of the vehicle;
• the simple reconfiguration of the third row;
• the quite ride, especially for an SUV;
• the option of a sport version equipped with a  firmer suspension and 19 inch tires, thus improving surface adherence.