Toyota Introduces Third Generation Highlander with Hybrid Option

ToyotaToyotaJapan, 1937 > present155 models
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has introduced the third generation HighlanderToyota Highlander 2.7Japan, 2014 > present2 photos
at the New York Auto Show that will be with three engines, including a hybrid. The new car is slightly larger than the outgoing model.

The new Highlander looks sturdy. It is a very square car whether you are looking at the front, rear or side. The front pillars have been repositioned to improve visibility. Toyota also added more sound deadening to make the interior 30% quieter. The interior seats up to eight people over three rows of seats. All of this comes from a car that is three inches longer and 0.5in wider but with a lower roof.

The interior gets seats with contrasting seat stitching and silver-painted trim and wood trim on the dashboard. Leather and a knit roof liner will be optional. Buyers can specify either a second-row bench seat or two captain’s chairs. Third row passengers get an extra 4.3in of legroom in the new generation. It also have a 34% increase in rear cargo storage. The interior also gets a standard 6.1in touchscreen with Bluetooth and a 12-speaker stereo.

Higher trim levels will be available with automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, smart key and heated and ventilated front seats.

There will be three engine options for the Highlander. The base engine will be a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The next step will be a 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic, and the top engine will be a 3.5-liter V6 with a hybrid powertrain. Toyota has not revealed any of the power figures for the engines yet.

Depending on engine, the car will come with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system is front biased with up to 100% of the power sent to the front or 50% sent to the rear.

Sales of the new generation will begin in early 2014.