Toyota Highlander
Encyclopedia
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV
produced by Toyota. It is a taller, heavier version of the Toyota Camry
.
Announced in April 2000 at the New York Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and 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 became Toyota's best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4
in 2006.
Unable to use the Highlander name in Japan
and Australia
because of a trademarked Hyundai Terracan
trim line, Toyota calls the vehicle the there, the name derived from the German word klüger, which means clever or wise.
cousin. It came in five (2001-2007) and seven-seat (2004-2007) configurations and became a sales success for Toyota in a number of markets across the world. The Highlander came standard with front wheel drive and offered all wheel drive (50:50 front:rear fixed torque split). Unlike Toyota's own 4Runner
and other midsized competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee
, or Chevrolet TrailBlazer
, the Highlander aimed for on-road comfort with its unit body construction and independent rear suspension. Although it was longer than the 1996–2002 4Runner available at the time it was launched, the Highlander was surpassed in length by the redesigned 4Runner in 2003.
The Highlander was available in three trim lines in the United States
: the base model, the Sport model, and the Limited model. The base and Limited models were present when the Highlander was initially introduced, while the Sport model was introduced in March 2006.
In 2004 the wheels on the Limited trim changed from a six-spoke, to a five-spoke alloy. The base-model Highlander wheels also changed from steel-rims to the alloy wheels that were on the 2001–2003 model year Highlander Limited and B-Package. The Sport models had a distinctive grille design, differentiating themselves from the non-Sport models. Wheel styling also serves to differentiate the various models—the hybrid sports a unique twin-spoke design.
The Kluger was introduced to Australia during 2003. It was available in three guises: CV, CVX, and Grande. A limited edition CV Sport model was also released in 2006. There was no hybrid model available in Australia. The only engine offered was the 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6
.
Engines:
The 3.0-liter engine was able to propel the Kluger from 0–60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds. In 2004 the Kluger was given a new 3.3-liter V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly the Nissan Murano
and the Honda Pilot
. The larger engine made it possible for the Kluger to reach 0 to 60 mi/h in 7.8 seconds.
In addition to the 3.3-liter engine, 2004 V6-powered models were equipped with a new five-speed automatic transmission, replacing a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 4-cylinder
models continued to use the old 4-speed automatic transmission. This year also saw the introduction of the optional third row seat allowing for two additional passengers. The unibody was slightly modified behind the second row seats to include a depression in the trunk floor able to accommodate the optional third row seating. On models without third row seating, this depression was turned into a storage compartment. (Prior to 2004 the spare tire was accessible from inside the vehicle where the third row seating would subsequently be located; beginning in 2004 the spare tire is accessible from underneath the vehicle.) Subtle changes to the front grille, front and rear bumpers, and headlights round-out the major changes for the 2004 mid-cycle refresh.
Beginning in 2006, Highlanders sold in Canada
are offered only in a V6 all-wheel drive configuration. Hybrid models are available with part-time four-wheel drive which Toyota refers to as 4WD-i where the rear wheels are powered by the separate electric motor. This system is intended for use on snow and ice, and is prone to overheating the rear electric motor off-road.
Base models are equipped with a limited slip differential, while up-scale models have a stability control system.
The Japanese Kluger was released with a centre console integrated with the dashboard, while the North America
n Highlander initially lacked this integrated centre console. The integrated centre console was introduced in all U.S. Highlanders and in Canadian Limited Highlanders in the 2002 model year, and in all Canadian Highlanders in the 2003 model year. However, for these early Highlanders without the integrated centre console, a smaller non-integrated stand-alone centre console was available as an option, which was installed at the factory or could be installed by the dealer.
Typical fuel economy using the Australia
n standard testing regime is 12.3 L/100 km.
and electronic brakeforce distribution
were standard, Vehicle Stability Control w/traction control
optional on 2001–03 models became standard for 2004 models (Hybrids come standard with VDIM). Also standard for 2004 was a tire pressure monitor. Front seat-mounted side torso airbags were optional on 2001–06 models, while front and second row side curtain airbags were optional on 2004–06 models. Side airbags became standard on 2007 models and the curtain airbags gained a rollover sensor that year as well.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
(IIHS) crash tests the Highlander was rated "Good" overall in the frontal offset crash test
. The IIHS reported the Highlander had one of the lowest driver fatality rates among all vehicles, and amongst SUVs, only the Toyota 4Runner had a lower driver fatality rate. This report looked at 2001–05 model year vehicles in the USA.
Initially, the Kluger was a regular, non-hybrid SUV driven by an internal combustion engine, but later Toyota introduced a hybrid
version, the Kluger Hybrid that utilizes the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive
technology combined with the company's 3MZ-FE
3.3-liter V6 engine offered in either FWD or AWD trim. The hybrid drivetrain was unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show
, and was offered to the public in July 2005 as a 2006 model. The power steering pump, water pump and AC compressor were changed from belt-drive to electrically powered versions. A modified alternator was incorporated into the hybrid system.
In North America, the hybrid version was called the Highlander Hybrid. It was also the first seven-seat hybrid vehicle
. With the electric motors providing power including lower speeds overall acceleration is improved particularity at passing speeds. Other additions include Toyota's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management
(VDIM) system and Electronically Controlled Brake
(ECB). The California Air Resources Board
gave it a SULEV emission rating. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (revised standards) rated it at 28 miles per US gallon City/25 miles per US gallon Highway for FWD models and 27 miles per US gallon/25 miles per US gallon for AWD models. This system is near identical to that of the Lexus RX 400h
. All-wheel drive models were rated to tow 3500 lb (1,587.6 kg).
, with American sales beginning in July and hybrids in late September.
But the second-generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid are not sold in Japan. The five-seat Highlander for the United States
and Canada
was dropped as the larger Venza
replaced it.
Initially the sole powertrain for the 2008 Highlander was a 270 hp 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 mated to a five-speed automatic
. The four-cylinder model had been discontinued but added again in 2009. While the 3.5-liter engine has 55 more bhp than the previous 3.3-liter V6 and dimensional increases along with increased sound proofing added nearly 500 pounds to the vehicle's curb weight of approximately 4,000 lbs
, fuel economy is slightly improved. The EPA estimated fuel economy for front-wheel drive models is at
18 miles per US gallon city / 24 miles per US gallon highway (last gen: 17 miles per US gallon city / 23 miles per US gallon hwy).
For 2009, Toyota again offered a 4-cylinder for 5-passenger front-wheel drive models with the all-new ULEV-II certified 2.7-liter 1AR-FE
I4 paired to a six-speed automatic. It generates 187 hp at 5,800 rpm and 186 ft.lbf of peak torque at 4,100 rpm on regular 87 octane fuel. The four-cylinder delivers an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20 miles per US gallon city and 27 miles per US gallon highway. This is better than the previous model's four cylinder with 19 miles per US gallon/25 miles per US gallon.
The same three trim levels were offered (Base, Sport, and Limited) until early 2010 when the SE model replaced the Sport model, buyers are still able to choose between front-drive or all-wheel drive on V6 platforms. Also new is an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Sport and Limited models get a standard backup camera
using a 3.5-inch LCD display. Major options include leather seats, heated seats, a touch-screen DVD based navigation system
, a new Smart Key System, an upgraded JBL
Synthesis stereo, a rear-seat DVD
entertainment system with 9-inch screen, and a towing package that increases towing capacity to 5000 pounds.
Currently, the Highlander/Kluger is produced in Japan for global markets. Toyota had intended on building the Highlander in Blue Springs, Mississippi
for the North American market in the 2011 model year. However, the Prius
will be built there instead, and the Highlander is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana
in Princeton, Indiana
, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of the North America, replacing Tundra
production. At this time, no decision has been made on Highlander Hybrid production at TMMI. TMMI Highlander production began in October 2009.
In Australia, the new generation Kluger was launched in August, 2007. There are three grades available, KX-R, KX-S and Grande. All grades are available with either 2WD or AWD. The base model KX-R is also available with either five or seven seats, whilst the latter grades are seven seaters only. Specifications are mostly similar to the US Highlander, sharing the same 3.5 litre V6 2GR-FE engine and five-speed automatic transmission. However, there are no plans at present to introduce a hybrid version of the Kluger into the Australian market.
(hybrids come standard with VDIM), anti-lock brakes, brake assist
and electronic brakeforce distribution
. Also standard is a tire pressure monitor, a driver's knee airbag, front seat-mounted side torso airbags, side curtain airbags for all three rows which includes a rollover sensor and active front headrests. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard which prevents rolling backwards on slopes, and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is standard on AWD trims.
The IIHS rates the Highlander "Good" overall in their frontal offset crash test, and good in all subcategories except for "Head/neck," which is rated as "Acceptable." And "Good" overall in the side impact crash test, with "Good" rating in all nine measured categories. The Highlander is also rated "Good" in the roof strength test, giving it a Top Safety Pick award.
In Australasian New Car Assessment Program
(ANCAP) testing the Kluger is given a rating but only a rating for pedestrian protection.
The safety and effectiveness of the Highlander/Kluger's Vehicle Stability Control system has been questioned by some motoring journalists. During testing for Wheels magazine Car of the Year
in 2007, the magazine's editor rolled the vehicle during high-speed gravel road testing. Noting that it was the first such event in the magazine's 45 year history, he criticised the vehicle's stability system stating that "Deficiencies in the Kluger's ESP contributed to the crash". Six of the seven other judges also stated that they felt "the vehicle's ESP performance was sub-standard", and remarked that the vehicle was "almost dangerous on dirt [roads]". In a written response, Toyota disputed the circumstances of the accident and criticised the testing procedures as "unscientific".
which continues to allow an electric only powered mode for short distances and speeds. Weight and cost have been improved over the previous hybrid.
The expanded size and new features have led to an increase of 500 pounds to its curb weight
. All Highlander Hybrids are all-wheel drive, and the EPA has rated the hybrid at 27 miles per US gallon city/25 miles per US gallon highway, same as the previous model. The Highlander's fuel economy, while better than the Lexus RX 400h
's, lags behind the compact
4cyl Ford Escape Hybrid and latest RX 450h, but still produces significantly fewer emissions than the non hybrid version with a CARB SULEV rating.
The Highland Hybrid continues to use the same 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6 (208 hp) offered in AWD from the prior model, net power is 270 hp. VDIM and Electronically Controlled Brake
remain new features include a driver selectable electric only EV mode (when possible) and another ECON mode which restricts acceleration and minimizes air conditioning during acceleration.
For the 2011 model year the Highlander Hybrid received styling changes and was upgraded with the 2GR-FXE V6, a powetrain similar to the RX450h, now rated at 28 city/28 highway/28 combined mpg.
In 2006 the Toronto Fire Services
purchased 9 specially equipped Highlander Hybrids as response vehicles.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2007 LA motor show.
, Japan
assembly plant and its Ikeda, Osaka
, Japan assembly plant beginning in May of 2007. GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (GTMC) in Nansha District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China began to produce the Toyota Highlander starting May 25th, 2009.
Hybrid sales:
Crossover SUV
A crossover SUV is a vehicle built on a car platform and combining, in highly variable degrees, features of a sport utility vehicle with features from a passenger vehicle, especially those of a station wagon or hatchback.Using the unibody construction typical of passenger vehicles, the crossover...
produced by Toyota. It is a taller, heavier version of the Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a series of mid-size automobiles manufactured by Toyota since 1982, and sold in the majority of automotive markets throughout the world...
.
Announced in April 2000 at the New York Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and January, 2001, in North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
, 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
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV manufactured by Toyota and sold throughout the world from 1984 to the present. In Japan it was known as the Toyota Hilux Surf...
and became Toyota's best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV from Toyota. It was the first compact crossover SUV, introduced in Japan and Europe in 1994 and beginning sales in North America in 1996...
in 2006.
Unable to use the Highlander name in Japan
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
and Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
because of a trademarked Hyundai Terracan
Hyundai Terracan
The Hyundai Terracan is a SUV that was produced by Hyundai Motor Company from 2001 to 2007. It was based on the Hyundai Highland concept . The target market for the Terracan mainly consisted of middle aged people looking for a cheaper alternative to other urban SUV's such as the Ford Explorer...
trim line, Toyota calls the vehicle the there, the name derived from the German word klüger, which means clever or wise.
First generation (XU20; 2000–2007)
The Highlander (or Kluger in Japan and Australia) shared a platform with its Lexus RX/Toyota HarrierLexus RX
The Lexus RX is a crossover sport utility vehicle sold since 1998 by Lexus, the luxury division of the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. Three generations of the Lexus RX have been produced to date, the first being compact in size, and the latter two classified as mid-size...
cousin. It came in five (2001-2007) and seven-seat (2004-2007) configurations and became a sales success for Toyota in a number of markets across the world. The Highlander came standard with front wheel drive and offered all wheel drive (50:50 front:rear fixed torque split). Unlike Toyota's own 4Runner
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV manufactured by Toyota and sold throughout the world from 1984 to the present. In Japan it was known as the Toyota Hilux Surf...
and other midsized competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a Mid-size SUV produced by the Jeep division of Chrysler. While some other SUVs were manufactured with body on frame construction, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has always used a unibody chassis.- Development :...
, or Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Chevrolet TrailBlazer
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer is a mid-size sport utility vehicle produced by the Chevrolet division of American automaker General Motors.On November 10th, 2011, General Motors officially revealed a second generation of the vehicle to be sold worldwide...
, the Highlander aimed for on-road comfort with its unit body construction and independent rear suspension. Although it was longer than the 1996–2002 4Runner available at the time it was launched, the Highlander was surpassed in length by the redesigned 4Runner in 2003.
The Highlander was available in three trim lines in the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
: the base model, the Sport model, and the Limited model. The base and Limited models were present when the Highlander was initially introduced, while the Sport model was introduced in March 2006.
In 2004 the wheels on the Limited trim changed from a six-spoke, to a five-spoke alloy. The base-model Highlander wheels also changed from steel-rims to the alloy wheels that were on the 2001–2003 model year Highlander Limited and B-Package. The Sport models had a distinctive grille design, differentiating themselves from the non-Sport models. Wheel styling also serves to differentiate the various models—the hybrid sports a unique twin-spoke design.
The Kluger was introduced to Australia during 2003. It was available in three guises: CV, CVX, and Grande. A limited edition CV Sport model was also released in 2006. There was no hybrid model available in Australia. The only engine offered was the 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6
V6 engine
A V6 engine is a V engine with six cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of three cylinders, usually set at either a right angle or an acute angle to each other, with all six pistons driving a common crankshaft...
.
Engines:
- 2001–2007 2.4 L 2AZ-FEToyota AZ engineThe Toyota AZ engine family is a straight-4 piston engine series. The AZ series uses an aluminium engine block with cast iron cylinder liners and aluminium DOHC cylinder heads. The engine series features many advanced technologies including slant-squish combustion chambers,offset cylinder and...
I4Straight-4The inline-four engine or straight-four engine is an internal combustion engine with all four cylinders mounted in a straight line, or plane along the crankcase. The single bank of cylinders may be oriented in either a vertical or an inclined plane with all the pistons driving a common crankshaft....
, 155 hp (119 kW) - 2001–2003 3.0 L 1MZ-FEToyota MZ engineThe Toyota MZ engine family is a V6 piston engine series. The MZ series has an aluminium engine block and aluminium alloy DOHC cylinder heads. The cylinders are lined with cast iron, and is of a closed deck design . The engine is a 60 degree V6 design...
V6, 220 hp (164 kW) - 2004–2007 3.3 L 3MZ-FEToyota MZ engineThe Toyota MZ engine family is a V6 piston engine series. The MZ series has an aluminium engine block and aluminium alloy DOHC cylinder heads. The cylinders are lined with cast iron, and is of a closed deck design . The engine is a 60 degree V6 design...
V6, 225 hp (172 kW)
The 3.0-liter engine was able to propel the Kluger from 0–60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds. In 2004 the Kluger was given a new 3.3-liter V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly the Nissan Murano
Nissan Murano
The first generation Nissan Murano was powered by a 3.5 litre 245 bhp V6 engine, also used in several other Nissan models like the Altima, Maxima, and Nissan 350Z, but specifically tuned for use in the Murano. Available with standard front-wheel-drive and optional all-wheel-drive , the Nissan...
and the Honda Pilot
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a mid-size crossover SUV. The Honda Pilot is built in Lincoln, Alabama, and was also produced in Alliston, Ontario, Canada up until April 2007. The first generation Pilot was released in the summer of 2002 as a 2003 model, and in 2006 it received new front and rear fascias, a...
. The larger engine made it possible for the Kluger to reach 0 to 60 mi/h in 7.8 seconds.
Model year changes
Straight-4
The inline-four engine or straight-four engine is an internal combustion engine with all four cylinders mounted in a straight line, or plane along the crankcase. The single bank of cylinders may be oriented in either a vertical or an inclined plane with all the pistons driving a common crankshaft....
models continued to use the old 4-speed automatic transmission. This year also saw the introduction of the optional third row seat allowing for two additional passengers. The unibody was slightly modified behind the second row seats to include a depression in the trunk floor able to accommodate the optional third row seating. On models without third row seating, this depression was turned into a storage compartment. (Prior to 2004 the spare tire was accessible from inside the vehicle where the third row seating would subsequently be located; beginning in 2004 the spare tire is accessible from underneath the vehicle.) Subtle changes to the front grille, front and rear bumpers, and headlights round-out the major changes for the 2004 mid-cycle refresh.
Beginning in 2006, Highlanders sold in Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
are offered only in a V6 all-wheel drive configuration. Hybrid models are available with part-time four-wheel drive which Toyota refers to as 4WD-i where the rear wheels are powered by the separate electric motor. This system is intended for use on snow and ice, and is prone to overheating the rear electric motor off-road.
Base models are equipped with a limited slip differential, while up-scale models have a stability control system.
The Japanese Kluger was released with a centre console integrated with the dashboard, while the North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
n Highlander initially lacked this integrated centre console. The integrated centre console was introduced in all U.S. Highlanders and in Canadian Limited Highlanders in the 2002 model year, and in all Canadian Highlanders in the 2003 model year. However, for these early Highlanders without the integrated centre console, a smaller non-integrated stand-alone centre console was available as an option, which was installed at the factory or could be installed by the dealer.
Typical fuel economy using the Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
n standard testing regime is 12.3 L/100 km.
Safety
Anti-lock brakes, brake assistBrake assist
Brake Assist is a generic term for an automobile braking technology that increases braking pressure in an emergency situation. The first application was developed jointly by Daimler-Benz and TRW/LucasVarity...
and electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution ', Electronic brakeforce limitation ' is an automobile brake technology that automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes, based on road conditions, speed, loading, etc...
were standard, Vehicle Stability Control w/traction control
Traction control system
A traction control system , also known as anti-slip regulation , is typically a secondary function of the anti-lock braking system on production motor vehicles, designed to prevent loss of traction of driven road wheels...
optional on 2001–03 models became standard for 2004 models (Hybrids come standard with VDIM). Also standard for 2004 was a tire pressure monitor. Front seat-mounted side torso airbags were optional on 2001–06 models, while front and second row side curtain airbags were optional on 2004–06 models. Side airbags became standard on 2007 models and the curtain airbags gained a rollover sensor that year as well.
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover: |
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover (2005): |
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a U.S. non-profit organization funded by auto insurers, established in 1959 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It works to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes, and the rate of injuries and amount of property damage in the crashes that...
(IIHS) crash tests the Highlander was rated "Good" overall in the frontal offset crash test
Crash test
A crash test is a form of destructive testing usually performed in order to ensure safe design standards in crashworthiness and crash compatibility for various modes of transportation or related systems and components.- Types :...
. The IIHS reported the Highlander had one of the lowest driver fatality rates among all vehicles, and amongst SUVs, only the Toyota 4Runner had a lower driver fatality rate. This report looked at 2001–05 model year vehicles in the USA.
Hybrid (MHU28, 2005–2007)
Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle. The term most commonly refers to hybrid electric vehicles , which combine an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors.-Power:...
version, the Kluger Hybrid that utilizes the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive
Hybrid Synergy Drive
Hybrid Synergy Drive is a set of hybrid car technologies developed by Toyota and used in the company's Auris, Prius, Highlander Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, Estima, Alphard, Lexus CT, Lexus RX 400h/RX 450h, Lexus GS 450h, Lexus LS 600h/LS 600hL, and Lexus HS 250h automobiles. Toyota also licenses its HSD...
technology combined with the company's 3MZ-FE
Toyota MZ engine
The Toyota MZ engine family is a V6 piston engine series. The MZ series has an aluminium engine block and aluminium alloy DOHC cylinder heads. The cylinders are lined with cast iron, and is of a closed deck design . The engine is a 60 degree V6 design...
3.3-liter V6 engine offered in either FWD or AWD trim. The hybrid drivetrain was unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show
North American International Auto Show
The North American International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan at Cobo Center, usually in January. It is among the largest auto shows in North America.-History:...
, and was offered to the public in July 2005 as a 2006 model. The power steering pump, water pump and AC compressor were changed from belt-drive to electrically powered versions. A modified alternator was incorporated into the hybrid system.
In North America, the hybrid version was called the Highlander Hybrid. It was also the first seven-seat hybrid vehicle
Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle. The term most commonly refers to hybrid electric vehicles , which combine an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors.-Power:...
. With the electric motors providing power including lower speeds overall acceleration is improved particularity at passing speeds. Other additions include Toyota's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management is an integrated vehicle handling and software control system developed by Toyota. It involves an omnibus computer linkage of traction control, electronic stability control, electronic steering, and other systems, with the intent of improving responsiveness...
(VDIM) system and Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake developed by Toyota Motor Corporation initially for its hybrid and Lexus models, is the world's first production brake-by-wire braking system. The ECB went on sale in Japan in June 2001, first appearing on the Toyota Estima hybrid , and making its North American...
(ECB). The California Air Resources Board
California Air Resources Board
The California Air Resources Board, also known as CARB or ARB, is the "clean air agency" in the government of California. Established in 1967 in the Mulford-Carrell Act, combining the Bureau of Air Sanitation and the Motor Vehicle Pollution Control Board, CARB is a department within the...
gave it a SULEV emission rating. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (revised standards) rated it at 28 miles per US gallon City/25 miles per US gallon Highway for FWD models and 27 miles per US gallon/25 miles per US gallon for AWD models. This system is near identical to that of the Lexus RX 400h
Lexus RX 400h
The Lexus RX is the second generation of the Lexus RX series of crossover SUVs that was sold by Lexus from 2003 to 2009. First introduced in 2003 at the North American International Auto Show, the initial RX 330 models went on sale later that year...
. All-wheel drive models were rated to tow 3500 lb (1,587.6 kg).
Second generation (XU40; 2007–present)
Toyota revealed the second-generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid at the 2007 Chicago Auto ShowChicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is held annually in February at Chicago's McCormick Placeconvention complex. It is among the largest auto shows in North America....
, with American sales beginning in July and hybrids in late September.
But the second-generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid are not sold in Japan. The five-seat Highlander for the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
and Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
was dropped as the larger Venza
Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Japanese automaker Toyota and unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit...
replaced it.
Initially the sole powertrain for the 2008 Highlander was a 270 hp 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 mated to a five-speed automatic
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
. The four-cylinder model had been discontinued but added again in 2009. While the 3.5-liter engine has 55 more bhp than the previous 3.3-liter V6 and dimensional increases along with increased sound proofing added nearly 500 pounds to the vehicle's curb weight of approximately 4,000 lbs
Pound (mass)
The pound or pound-mass is a unit of mass used in the Imperial, United States customary and other systems of measurement...
, fuel economy is slightly improved. The EPA estimated fuel economy for front-wheel drive models is at
18 miles per US gallon city / 24 miles per US gallon highway (last gen: 17 miles per US gallon city / 23 miles per US gallon hwy).
For 2009, Toyota again offered a 4-cylinder for 5-passenger front-wheel drive models with the all-new ULEV-II certified 2.7-liter 1AR-FE
Toyota AR engine
The AR engine family is a straight-4 piston engine series by Toyota, first introduced in 2008 for the RAV4, and subsequently for the Highlander, Venza, and Camry.The AR series uses a die-cast aluminium engine block and aluminium DOHC cylinder head...
I4 paired to a six-speed automatic. It generates 187 hp at 5,800 rpm and 186 ft.lbf of peak torque at 4,100 rpm on regular 87 octane fuel. The four-cylinder delivers an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20 miles per US gallon city and 27 miles per US gallon highway. This is better than the previous model's four cylinder with 19 miles per US gallon/25 miles per US gallon.
The same three trim levels were offered (Base, Sport, and Limited) until early 2010 when the SE model replaced the Sport model, buyers are still able to choose between front-drive or all-wheel drive on V6 platforms. Also new is an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Sport and Limited models get a standard backup camera
Backup camera
A backup camera is a special type of video camera that is produced specifically for the purpose of being attached to the rear of a vehicle to aid in backing up. Backup cameras are alternatively known as 'reversing cameras' or 'rear view cameras'....
using a 3.5-inch LCD display. Major options include leather seats, heated seats, a touch-screen DVD based navigation system
Automotive navigation system
An automotive navigation system is a satellite navigation system designed for use in automobiles. It typically uses a GPS navigation device to acquire position data to locate the user on a road in the unit's map database. Using the road database, the unit can give directions to other locations...
, a new Smart Key System, an upgraded JBL
JBL
JBL is an American audio electronics company currently owned by Harman International. It was founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing. Their primary products are loudspeakers and associated electronics. There are two independent divisions within the company — JBL Consumer and JBL Professional...
Synthesis stereo, a rear-seat DVD
DVD
A DVD is an optical disc storage media format, invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba, and Panasonic in 1995. DVDs offer higher storage capacity than Compact Discs while having the same dimensions....
entertainment system with 9-inch screen, and a towing package that increases towing capacity to 5000 pounds.
Currently, the Highlander/Kluger is produced in Japan for global markets. Toyota had intended on building the Highlander in Blue Springs, Mississippi
Blue Springs, Mississippi
Blue Springs is a village in Union County, Mississippi, United States. Located near Tupelo in northeastern Mississippi, the village had a population of 144 at the 2000 census...
for the North American market in the 2011 model year. However, the Prius
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a full hybrid electric mid-size hatchback, formerly a compact sedan developed and manufactured by the Toyota Motor Corporation...
will be built there instead, and the Highlander is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, Inc. is an automobile manufacturing factory located nearly halfway between Princeton, Indiana and Fort Branch, Indiana, USA...
in Princeton, Indiana
Princeton, Indiana
The median income for a household in the city was $26,689, and the median income for a family was $37,308. Males had a median income of $28,076 versus $19,825 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,049...
, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of the North America, replacing Tundra
Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck introduced by Toyota in the year 2000. It was widely considered to be the first full-size import-brand truck built with an American look and feel and a refined V8 engine. The Tundra was eventually nominated for the North American Truck of the Year...
production. At this time, no decision has been made on Highlander Hybrid production at TMMI. TMMI Highlander production began in October 2009.
In Australia, the new generation Kluger was launched in August, 2007. There are three grades available, KX-R, KX-S and Grande. All grades are available with either 2WD or AWD. The base model KX-R is also available with either five or seven seats, whilst the latter grades are seven seaters only. Specifications are mostly similar to the US Highlander, sharing the same 3.5 litre V6 2GR-FE engine and five-speed automatic transmission. However, there are no plans at present to introduce a hybrid version of the Kluger into the Australian market.
2010 Update
In 2010, for the 2011 model year, Toyota is making some changes to the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid. While the general design remains similar to the 2010 model, the Highlander's front end has been significantly revised, now featuring new headlights, a new black with chrome accent rocker panel, and new front grille. The non-hybrid engines for 2011 remain the same, although now the 2.7-liter four cylinder engine may be had on the SE trim level, previously only available on the base model. More standard features are now equipped on all trim levels, with the base model receiving front and rear air conditioning, power locks/windows, cruise control, and a multi-function keyless entry control.Safety/crash testing
All models come standard with enhanced Vehicle Stability Control which immediately alters electric powering steering assist w/traction controlTraction control system
A traction control system , also known as anti-slip regulation , is typically a secondary function of the anti-lock braking system on production motor vehicles, designed to prevent loss of traction of driven road wheels...
(hybrids come standard with VDIM), anti-lock brakes, brake assist
Brake assist
Brake Assist is a generic term for an automobile braking technology that increases braking pressure in an emergency situation. The first application was developed jointly by Daimler-Benz and TRW/LucasVarity...
and electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution
Electronic brakeforce distribution ', Electronic brakeforce limitation ' is an automobile brake technology that automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes, based on road conditions, speed, loading, etc...
. Also standard is a tire pressure monitor, a driver's knee airbag, front seat-mounted side torso airbags, side curtain airbags for all three rows which includes a rollover sensor and active front headrests. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard which prevents rolling backwards on slopes, and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is standard on AWD trims.
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover: |
The IIHS rates the Highlander "Good" overall in their frontal offset crash test, and good in all subcategories except for "Head/neck," which is rated as "Acceptable." And "Good" overall in the side impact crash test, with "Good" rating in all nine measured categories. The Highlander is also rated "Good" in the roof strength test, giving it a Top Safety Pick award.
In Australasian New Car Assessment Program
Australasian New Car Assessment Program
The Australasian New Car Assessment Program is an automobile organisation operated by the governments and motoring organisations of Australia and New Zealand to give consumers coherent results on the protection given by vehicles in front and side impact collisions...
(ANCAP) testing the Kluger is given a rating but only a rating for pedestrian protection.
The safety and effectiveness of the Highlander/Kluger's Vehicle Stability Control system has been questioned by some motoring journalists. During testing for Wheels magazine Car of the Year
Wheels Car of the Year
Wheels magazine has announced its Car of the Year every year since 1963, with the exception of 1972, 1979 and 1986 when no cars were considered worthy of the honour . It is considered Australia's most prestigious automotive award...
in 2007, the magazine's editor rolled the vehicle during high-speed gravel road testing. Noting that it was the first such event in the magazine's 45 year history, he criticised the vehicle's stability system stating that "Deficiencies in the Kluger's ESP contributed to the crash". Six of the seven other judges also stated that they felt "the vehicle's ESP performance was sub-standard", and remarked that the vehicle was "almost dangerous on dirt [roads]". In a written response, Toyota disputed the circumstances of the accident and criticised the testing procedures as "unscientific".
Hybrid
The Kluger Hybrid features Toyota's Hybrid Synergy DriveHybrid Synergy Drive
Hybrid Synergy Drive is a set of hybrid car technologies developed by Toyota and used in the company's Auris, Prius, Highlander Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, Estima, Alphard, Lexus CT, Lexus RX 400h/RX 450h, Lexus GS 450h, Lexus LS 600h/LS 600hL, and Lexus HS 250h automobiles. Toyota also licenses its HSD...
which continues to allow an electric only powered mode for short distances and speeds. Weight and cost have been improved over the previous hybrid.
The expanded size and new features have led to an increase of 500 pounds to its curb weight
Curb weight
Curb weight or kerb weight is the total weight of a vehicle with standard equipment, all necessary operating consumables , a full tank of fuel, while not loaded with either passengers or cargo.This definition may differ from definitions used by governmental regulatory agencies or other...
. All Highlander Hybrids are all-wheel drive, and the EPA has rated the hybrid at 27 miles per US gallon city/25 miles per US gallon highway, same as the previous model. The Highlander's fuel economy, while better than the Lexus RX 400h
Lexus RX 400h
The Lexus RX is the second generation of the Lexus RX series of crossover SUVs that was sold by Lexus from 2003 to 2009. First introduced in 2003 at the North American International Auto Show, the initial RX 330 models went on sale later that year...
's, lags behind the compact
Compact SUV
Compact SUV is a class of small sport utility vehicles with a length roughly between . This class should not be confused with mini SUV, which refers to smaller vehicles.- Background :...
4cyl Ford Escape Hybrid and latest RX 450h, but still produces significantly fewer emissions than the non hybrid version with a CARB SULEV rating.
The Highland Hybrid continues to use the same 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6 (208 hp) offered in AWD from the prior model, net power is 270 hp. VDIM and Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake
Electronically Controlled Brake developed by Toyota Motor Corporation initially for its hybrid and Lexus models, is the world's first production brake-by-wire braking system. The ECB went on sale in Japan in June 2001, first appearing on the Toyota Estima hybrid , and making its North American...
remain new features include a driver selectable electric only EV mode (when possible) and another ECON mode which restricts acceleration and minimizes air conditioning during acceleration.
For the 2011 model year the Highlander Hybrid received styling changes and was upgraded with the 2GR-FXE V6, a powetrain similar to the RX450h, now rated at 28 city/28 highway/28 combined mpg.
In 2006 the Toronto Fire Services
Toronto Fire Services
The Toronto Fire Services is part of the Emergency Services that respond to 911 calls in the City of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.-Overview:The Toronto Fire Services is responsible for responding to fires, rescue and assisting with medical situations within the City of Toronto...
purchased 9 specially equipped Highlander Hybrids as response vehicles.
Highlander FCHV (2007–)
It was a test vehicle using compressed hydrogen gas, with average fuel economy of 68.3 miles/kg (approximate mpg equivalent).The vehicle was unveiled in 2007 LA motor show.
Chinese version
The Chinese version of the Highlander (ASU40/GSU45) was unveiled at the 13th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition.Production
It was built in its KyūshūKyushu
is the third largest island of Japan and most southwesterly of its four main islands. Its alternate ancient names include , , and . The historical regional name is referred to Kyushu and its surrounding islands....
, Japan
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
assembly plant and its Ikeda, Osaka
Ikeda, Osaka
is a city located in Osaka, Japan. As of 2010, the city has an estimated population of 104,704 and a density of 4,740 persons per km². The total area is 22.09 km²....
, Japan assembly plant beginning in May of 2007. GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (GTMC) in Nansha District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China began to produce the Toyota Highlander starting May 25th, 2009.
Sales
Including hybrid| Calendar year | US sales |
|---|---|
| 2000 | n/a |
| 2001 | 86,700 |
| 2002 | 113,134 |
| 2003 | 120,174 |
| 2004 | 133,077 |
| 2005 | 137,409 |
| 2006 | 129,794 |
| 2007 | 127,878 |
| 2008 | 104,661 |
| 2009 | 83,118 |
Hybrid sales:
| Calendar year | US sales |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 17,989 |
| 2006 | 31,485 |
| 2007 | 22,052 |
| 2008 | 19,441 |
| 2009 | 11,086 |