Toyota Highlander 2010 is a 4-door, up to 7-passenger sport-utility, available in 7 trims, ranging from the Base... read more 4X2 I4 to the Limited 4X4.
Toyota Kluger also called Toyota Highlander in North America and China, is a midsize crossover SUV.
Toyota Highlander debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2000 and arrived in late 2000 in Japan and in January 2001 in North America, the Highlander became the first car-based midsize SUV or midsize crossover.The Highlander is the crossover counterpart to the more rugged truck-based midsize 4Runner and had become Toyota's best-selling SUV until the smaller RAV4 outsold it in 2006.Toyota could not use the "Highlander" name in Australia and Japan, since it is a trademarked trim line of the Hyundai Terracan SUV.
Upon introduction, the Base 4X2 I4 is equipped with a standard 2.7-liter, I4, 187-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The Limited 4X4 is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 270-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.
The 2010 Highlander is a carryover from 2009.
HOMEPAGE:Highlander 2010SPECIFICATIONS:Engines:Hybrid engine -- 3.3-liter double overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve VVT-i V6; 208 hp (156 kW) @ 5600 rpm, 212 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm
Gasoline engine -- 2.7L double overhead cam (DOHC) 16-valve dual VVT-i; 187 hp @ 5800 rpm, 186 1b.-ft. @ 4100 rpm
Gasoline engine -- 3.5-liter double overhead cam (DOHC) 24-valve dual VVT-i V6; 270 hp @ 6200 rpm, 248 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm
Emission Rating: SULEV
ULEV-II
Electric motor type::Permanent magnet motor Power output: 167 hp (123 kW) @ 4500 rpm
Maximum torque: 247 lb.-ft. @ 0-1500 rpm
Maximum voltage: AC 650V
Traction Battery: Battery Type: Sealed Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
Maximum power output: 45 kw
Voltage: 288V
Hybrid System Net Power: 270 hp (201 KW)
..morePRICE:MSRP$25,705 - $34,520
Invoice$23,134 - $31,067
HYBRID:MSRP$34,700 - $41,020
Invoice$31,577 - $37,122
Review:By Evan Griffey of MSN Autos for 2008 Highlander hybridRating: 8.7
Bottom Line:Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the first seven-passenger hybrid SUV, is a clean sheet redesign for 2008. The all-new SUV features more room, more conveniences, all wrapped in an eco-friendly package that should resonate with green-thinking families.
Pros:* Stylish, comfortable, competent
* 58 percent better city mpg
* Great third-row seats
Cons:* Can be an expensive date
* Minimal bump in highway mpg
* Nav system lacks "intuitiveness"
For 2008 the Highlander has received a full-tilt redesign. A car-based SUV, the Highlander plays centerfield in Toyota's midsize SUV lineup along with fellow outfielders 4Runner and FJ Cruiser. Targeting families that need to carry cargo with the option to expand to seven-passenger capacity at a moment's notice, the Highlander Hybrid is part of Toyota's three-vehicle strategy that includes the Camry Hybrid and Prius.
Second-Gen EvolutionThe all-new, second-generation Highlander Hybrid is bigger inside and out. Built on the Camry/Avalon chassis, the '08 version is four inches longer and three inches wider than the model it replaces. Outside, crisp lines and muscular contours set the tone. Inside, the dash layout, materials and fit-and-finish are excellent, and the Highlander provides a commanding driving position that makes SUVs a trusted companion on the road.
All Highlander Hybrid models sport all-wheel drive and are available in Base and Limited trim levels. Limited models come with a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch rolling stock, rear back-up camera, fog lights, a 3.5-inch multi-function display, and a satisfying level of standard convenience and luxury amenities.
The Highlander Hybrid features a 3.3-liter V6 as part of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system. This system includes a high-torque electric motor/generator working in tandem with the gasoline engine to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
In stop-and-go situations the electric module alone powers the vehicle. But if throttle input spikes, or speeds reach a predetermined threshold, the gasoline engine kicks in and the vehicle is propelled by a combination of the two systems. Power is routed through a five-speed automatic transmission.
On the RoadOur Highlander Hybrid Limited was outfitted with Toyota's Smart Entry System that automatically unlocks the driver's door when the vehicle senses the key fob. Auto Start was also part of the program. There is no key or ignition switch. It was almost eerie to push a start button with the same icon as many modern electrical devices and hear the hum of the hybrid system come online. No varrooom. It was more like starting a Dell than a Toyota.
Once on the road, the Hybrid Synergy Drive is transparent and the Highlander Hybrid carries on like any other vehicle. When you jump on the throttle, the hybrid system delivers ample power with both the gasoline and electric motors contributing. The ride is silky smooth as the vehicle's wide stance, low-profile tires, and responsive steering deliver firm and steady feedback and a high level of confidence.
We were surprised with the roominess inside, especially for third-row passengers, who made little consolation in terms of ingress, egress, and overall comfort. The Highlander Hybrid was quite flexible, easily morphing to accommodate different passenger/cargo needs, while providing outstanding long-distance comfort.
Most of our time with the Highlander Hybrid was on the open highway, where it is least efficient. Rated at 27-mpg city and 25-mpg highway, hybrids typically get better mileage around town, because that environment makes better use of the electric motor.
On the highway, the gasoline engine is required to maintain cruising speeds. If you prowl the city commuting or running errands, the hybrid version offers a 58-percent gain in fuel economy over a standard gasoline-engined Highlander, which manages only 17-mpg city.
What Price for Efficiency?Highlander pricing hierarchy on the gasoline side of the ledger starts with the Base trim at $27,300, Sport at $29,950 and Limited at $32,700. Hybrid versions start at $33,700, while the Hybrid Limited checks in at $39,950. Our tester, adorned with a few options — the most prominent being a voice-activated navigation system — had a bottom line of $43,513.
In 2005 the Highlander became the first seven-passenger hybrid. The all-new 2008 model keeps the ball rolling with added refinement, safety and luxury features. The Highlander is a best of both worlds solution for forward-thinking families that want the eco-friendliness of a Prius with additional cargo and passenger space.
MORE:Wiki.highlanderAuto.yahoo_2009_hybrid
