Midsize Crossover SUV of 2009 Toyota Highlander

Pros
* Passenger and cargo room
* Instruments/controls

Cons
* Fuel economy

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Toyota Highlander lineup gains a new model with a 4-cylinder engine. This midsize crossover SUV seats up to seven with an available folding 3rd-row seat and 2nd-row bucket seats. The 2nd-row offers three-passenger capacity via a detachable padded center section that folds and stows in a 1st-row console when not in use. Most Highlanders are available with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Highlander offers Base, Sport, Limited, and gas/electric Hybrid models. Base models come with a new 187-hp 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine. Optional on the Base and standard on Sport and Limited is a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine. The 4-cylinder pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while V6 versions use a 5-speed automatic.

The AWD-only Hybrid comes in Base and Limited trims and uses a 3.3-liter V6 teamed with an electric motor for a combined 270 hp. Like Toyota's other hybrids, it runs on one or both of its power sources, depending on driving demands, and requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Hybrid's EV mode allows the driver to put Highlander in electric-only drive mode for a limited distance. A driver-selectable Econ mode that regulates throttle inputs for optimum fuel economy is available. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb for the Hybrid and 5000 lb for conventional V6 models.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows, front side airbags, and a driver knee airbag. Standard on all non-hybrid AWD models is hill descent control. Options include a sunroof, DVD entertainment, three-zone climate control, and a navigation system.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.