2013 Toyota Highlander

While the second-generation Toyota Highlander arrived for 2008 , the midsize three-row crossover was refreshed for the 2011 model year. The 2013 Toyota Highlander is available with two gas engines and a hybrid powertrain. Gas engines include a 187-hp, 186 lb-ft of torque 2.7-liter I-4 and a 3.5-liter V-6 with 270 hp and 248 lb-ft. Front-drive four-cylinder models are EPA rated 20/25 mpg city/highway, while the front-drive V-6 model is rated 18/24 mpg. All-wheel-drive is only available with the V-6 engine, which is rated 17/22 mpg. Hybrid models are powered by a 231-hp 3.5-liter V-6 with 215 lb-ft mated to three electric motor generators and a CVT. An electric motor is used as a generator, engine starter, and for transmission ratio control. Another electric motor drives the front wheels, while the other electric motor drives the rear wheels. The front axle motor produces 167 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the rear axle motor produces 68 hp and 96 lb-ft of torque. Combined system output is rated 280 hp and the Highlander Hybrid is rated 28/28 mpg. The Highlander will be redesigned for 2014.

When the larger 2008 Highlander arrived, we thought the three-row crossover had enough room to be a hip alternative to the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey minivans. In our 2008 SUV of the Year competition, the redesigned Highlander (and the rest of the field) lost to the refreshed Mazda CX-9 , though the Highlander was a half second quicker to 60 mph (7.3 vs. 7.8 seconds). We found the refreshed 2011 Highlander slightly quicker to 60 mph (7.2 seconds), but felt that "the steering comes across too light and artificial" and "the suspension, tuned on the soft side for a Limited-fitting luxurious ride, nonetheless seems busier and slightly harsher…" We concluded that "the Highlander V-6 remains a very competent, capable, and well-executed three-row crossover. Perhaps to a fault. 'Engaging' and 'fun to drive' are really the only two Highlander boxes left unchecked." Those not looking for a seven-passenger crossover "with those boxes checked… will be extremely satisfied with the 2011 Highlander."

With the 2013 Highlander, a new Plus trim level replaces the former Tech Package. Highlander Plus includes a 3.5-inch multi-information display, rear back-up camera, easy to clean seat fabric, tilt/telescopic wheel, driver lumbar adjustment, fog lights, and unique interior and exterior trim. New Display Audio system with navigation and Entune includes USB port, Bluetooth phone and music streaming. The 2013 Toyota Highlander crossover has a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA (out of a possible five stars) and is considered a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for cars built after November 2012.

New for 2013

Highlander Plus trim replaces Tech Package, while a Leather Premium Package replaces the Leather Package on base Highlander Hybrid models. The app based Eutune multimedia audio system is new. The four-cylinder engine is no longer available on the SE model.

Key Competitors

• Mazda CX-9
• Honda Pilot
• Ford Explorer
• Chevrolet Traverse
• Hyundai Santa Fe

Sum Up

Excellent people-hauler among the best of the crossover market.