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By Kirk Bell
All-new version is bigger and better.
Introduction
The Toyota Highlander is completely new for 2008. After seven successful model years, the Toyota Highlander has been redesigned and re-engineered to enhance its strengths. The new version is bigger and roomier. It's also been made more powerful, though not at the expense of fuel economy.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander is larger than its predecessor in every dimension. Those larger dimensions add up to increased cargo and passenger volume.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander is an even better people mover than its predecessor. The second row can slide forward and back, and the third-row seat changes from an afterthought to a space hospitable for children and capable of carrying adults. Getting in and out of the first two rows is easy, and Toyota provides both a walkthrough and a fold and slide forward second-row seat to ease access to the third row.
The Highlander is moving slightly upmarket for 2008. A four-cylinder engine is no longer an option and the base six-cylinder engine has been upgraded. The standard 3.5-liter V6 is larger and dramatically more powerful than last year's engine. Rated at 270 horsepower, it offers an increase of 55 hp over the old engine. In spite of this, fuel economy has been slightly improved. The 3.5-liter V6 is buttery smooth, as is its five-speed transmission, which downshifts seamlessly to provide ample passing punch. Front-wheel-drive Highlanders get 18/24 mpg City/Highway. All-wheel drive models are rated slightly lower at 17/23 mpg.
Hybrid models keep the same 270-hp gas/electric power train as the 2005-07 models. The hybrid also provides smooth, plentiful power. The hybrid powertrain is rated at 27/25 mpg City/Highway. While the EPA ratings are not as good as those of the 2007 model (rated 31/27 mpg), fuel economy from the 2008 Highlander is slightly better in real-world driving. EPA test procedures have changed for 2008 models and now are closer to what consumers can expect to get.
Highlanders come standard with front-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available for customers who want all-weather capability and enhanced safety. Hybrids come standard with all-wheel drive.
The Highlander is a so-called crossover SUV, meaning it's built more like a car than a truck. The Highlander is based on the architecture of the Toyota Camry midsize sedan. As a result, the Highlander offers a quiet cabin and a luxurious ride quality. Overall, we found the 2008 Toyota Highlander to be a pleasant way to a group of people.
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