2014 Toyota Highlander Expert Review
Reviewed by Erick Ayapana
Vehicle Overview
Minivans may be more practical, but three-row crossovers such as the 2014 Toyota Highlander continue to sell in large numbers in the States. That said, Toyota has refreshed its third-generation Highlander to help it stay competitive against a number of strong choices in the segment including the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Chevrolet Traverse.
Those looking for more space will be glad to learn that the Highlander has grown. Its overall length of 191.1 inches is almost three more than the pre-refreshed model, while overall width also grows a tad to 75.8 inches. Those few inches allowed engineers to widen the third-row seats, increasing the Highlander's passenger capacity from seven to eight. The 2014 Highlander also sports tweaked sheetmetal, including a front fascia with new headlights and a larger grille. Out back, the taillights are larger, while the interior has been revised with a new layout and improved materials.
The 2.7-liter, 185-hp inline-four engine carries over, which we found to be "potent enough" during our first drive of the 2014 Highlander. The 270-hp, 3.5-liter V-6, along with the six-speed automatic, should be an adequate choice for those seeking more power. And shoppers looking to save fuel should consider the Highlander Hybrid, which combines a 3.5-liter V-6 with an electric motor and is EPA-rated at 27/28/28 mpg city/combined/highway. Front and all-wheel drive is available depending on the engine and trim level.
New for 2014
The 2014 Highlander is larger and now accommodates eight passengers. Exterior styling has been revised, and the improved interior features improved materials and a newly designed dashboard.
Key Competitors
Sum Up
Vanilla becomes gourmet vanilla bean for 2014.
