The new Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV suitable for a family of five. However, with several trims and variants, the auto company appeals to the widest possible range of audiences. Toyota has been among the front runners in almost every auto segment, and their latest launch is yet another step in this direction. So, if one is planning on buying the all-new Toyota Highlander, it’s important to understand some of its key features.

Here is what is new
Like most of its models, Toyota has chosen the ‘value-packed route’ with the Highlander. If you are looking for a change, then check out the new Hybrid Bronze Edition model comes with a Wind Chill Pearl or Cement exterior paint with 18-inch bronze-colored wheels. They also have some unique design elements like illuminated bronze-colored doorsill protectors. Moreover, Highlander’s higher trims come with height-adjustable power-seat feature front passengers.

Although there are no significant changes in the new Toyota Highlander, its trims and variants are loaded with enough features that the absence of a major facelift might not make a difference.

Under the hood
The new Toyota Highlander powertrain is fitted with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving either front or all four wheels, churning out 295 horsepower. The V-6 engine quickly accelerates from 0 to 60mph in a little under 7 seconds and lets you tackle short on-ramps without a sweat. This feature can make cruising along the highway much smoother and more suitable for a family drive. Toyota has leveraged its expertise with its Highlander hybrid trim with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder arrangement coupled with two electric motors and a decent 243 horsepower. Buyers will also appreciate its CVT automatic transmission and the choice to pick between front-wheel or all-wheel drive, depending on your driving habits. While the hybrid powertrain offers a great fuel economy, it comes at the cost of reduced acceleration as it takes 7.3 long seconds to clock from 0 to 60mph.

Safety
It is the most important feature when buying any car, and automobile makers are aware of this fact. Accordingly, the new Toyota Highlander has a standard suite of driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Key features include standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alerts, among others.

Fuel economy
Although it depends on driving preferences, fuel economy still holds crucial when shortlisting your favorite car. The new Toyota Highlander delivers up to 29 miles per gallon when driving its front-wheel drive variant on a highway. However, if you are looking for better handling, then consider the four-wheel drive option will offer approximately 27 miles per gallon. The SUV’s hybrid trims steal the spotlight when it comes to fuel economy, as its front-wheel drive variant earns 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Interior, comfort, and entertainment
When it comes to interiors, the Base L and midrange LE can accommodate eight passengers, thanks to the bench seats in the second and third rows. However, it is recommended to consider higher trims if you are looking for a more comfortable seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain’s chairs. While the third row may seem cramped, auto experts suggest the new Highlander has more space for its passengers when compared with its competitors. With the Hybrid LE, you can enjoy fabric-trimmed front and second-row seats and a 4-way manual-adjustable front passenger seat. The XLE, on the other hand, has SofTex®-trimmed front- and second-row seats, a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat including power lumbar support, and heated front seats.

Regarding infotainment and connectivity, standard trims have an 8-inch infotainment system, but passengers in the Highlander Limited and Platinum have an upgraded version with a 12.3-inch display. The infotainment system comes with six speakers, USB media port, four USB charge ports, and music streaming capabilities via Bluetooth®. Apart from this, you get a 4G LTE Wi-fi hotspot, SiriusXM® satellite radio, and integration with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Alexa.

While the 2024 Toyota Highlander comes at a starting price of $39,120, one can find discounts on the sale price. For instance, one can qualify for a manufacturer offer of $1,000 Toyota Financial Services (TFS) APR cash, valid till December 5 this year. One may also be eligible for a $750 cash back via the Military Rebate Program on the finance or lease of a new Toyota Highlander.