Toyota Highlander SUV thinks big
THE Toyota Highlander is the very first 7-seater hybrid SUV to be added to Toyota’s hybrid range in Ireland. Following on from Toyota’s world-renowned SUV heritage, the new model is built on the latest 4th generation hybrid technology. The Highlander offers a fantastic option for Irish families with its 7-seater capacity, innovative self-charging technology, and premium style and comfort features that have been a key attribute of Toyota’s latest hybrid range.
The new all-wheel-drive Highlander compliments Toyota’s wide SUV line-up, which consists of the B-segment Yaris Cross, C-segment C-HR and Corolla Cross, and D-segment RAV4.
Benefitting from Toyota’s GA-K platform, the Highlander combines all the Toyota SUV attributes of comfort, driveability and safety with low emissions and low fuel consumption from its hybrid powertrain.
These characteristics are further strengthened by an intelligent AllWheel-Drive system, ample space on demand, and a 2-tonne towing capacity.
Measuring in at an impressive 4,950mm in length, the Highlander combines the sleek, dynamic and sophisticated styling of a premium urban SUV with the strength, power and durability of a rugged, versatile all-wheel-drive vehicle. Equally impressive is the Highlander’s 2,850mm wheelbase, which translates into terrific space for up to 7 occupants and their luggage, while the 180mm sliding range of the second-row seating ensures spacious third-row accommodation for two adults, as well as easy access in and out of the seats.
The power tailgate opens to reveal 658-litres of boot space, and with additional underfloor storage, this can be dramatically expanded by fully folding the third and second rows of seats, bringing the total load capacity up to a cavernous 1,909-litres.
Powering the new Highlander is a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with front and rear electric motors and a powerful Nickel-Metal Hydride battery located under the second-row of seats.
With a total system output of 248bhp and 239Nm of torque, combined with fuel consumption as low as 7.1l/100km on a combined WLTP driving cycle, the new Highlander represents an impressive balance of power and efficiency.
A Drive Mode Select switch enables the driver to select a choice of Eco, Normal, Sport and Trail driving modes. All four modes may be used when the vehicle is operating in the separately-switchable EV mode.
The new Toyota Highlander is available in two trim levels – ‘Sol’ and ‘Platinum’, with a host of comfort, convenience, safety, and infotainment features coming as standard across both variants. My review car was a new Highlander Hybrid Platinum, which looked very handsome in its Celestial Silver metallic paintwork and stylish 20” alloy wheels. Additional standard features include projector LED headlamps, panoramic roof, power tailgate with ‘kick function’, front and rear parking sensors, Toyota Safety Sense 2, perforated leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, panoramic view monitor, head-up display, satellite navigation, JBL audio system with 11 speakers, and blue ambient lighting on door trim and instrument panel.
The use of an acoustic windscreen and front glazing, combined with the adoption of roof, dash and floor silencers, along with wheel arch and load-space liners equip the Highlander with a notably quiet cabin, reinforcing the inherently smooth, quiet driving characteristics of its full hybrid powertrain. The Highlander is quick off the mark and it can build up speed briskly enough to enable a 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.3-seconds. The CVT automatic transmission in the Highlander is super smooth, and if you are gentle on the throttle you can keep the car in electric-only mode for short distances. Finding a comfortable driving position behind the steering wheel is greatly helped by multiple seat and wheel adjustments, with the Highlander providing all occupants with terrific visibility, comfort and space.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Sol and Platinum are priced at €87,250 and €92,765 respectively – inclusive of on-theroad charges. While all Toyota vehicles are built to exceptional standards, a 3-year/100,000km warranty comes as standard.
However, Hybrid vehicles have fewer parts that require servicing, and those that do are inherently durable to extend service intervals. Hybrid components within the drivetrain system have a 5-year/100,000km warranty, while a Hybrid battery warranty of up to an incredible 15 years is available when the car is presented to an authorised Toyota Service agent for an Annual Hybrid Health Check.