Toyota Highlander 4WD

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AutoTrader NZ
Author
Published 3 September 2020

About a year ago I tested one of New Zealand’s favourite tow wagons, the Toyota Landcruiser Prado, which is pretty hard to beat when it comes to towing capabilities. However, its bulkiness can make daily navigation challenging. Its price, especially if you’re purchasing it mainly for towing, can seem rather steep.

The Search for a Compromise

What’s needed is a compromise, something with that same near bullet-proof reliability record, a genuinely respectable tow rating, practical luggage carrying capabilities and a potent engine yet one that’s more adept at the dainty, around town running. The Toyota Highlander fits that bill to a tee.

Design and Handling

At first glance, you might mistake this for a hefty SUV due to its recent facelift and the associated perceived dimensions. However, once onboard, you realise that despite its size, it handles as easily as a compact car, making side street navigation and parallel parking surprisingly simple.

Interior Comfort and Space

The interior may lack some inspiration, but it makes up for it in comfort and functionality. Large and cozy seats provide ample legroom for all occupants, ensuring comfort even during long journeys. Additionally, a third row of seating and substantial luggage space accommodate all your traveling needs.

Standard Equipment and Safety

Standard equipment includes a reversing camera for safety and convenience, two front 12-volt accessory power points, CD player, Bluetooth handsfree, USB connectivity, and wireless audio streaming. It also comes with essential safety features such as airbags, hill-start assistance, and stability control.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 4WD version of the Highlander comes with a 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 201kW of power and 337 Nm of torque. The engine is powerfully deceptive, effortlessly exceeding legal tow limits even on steep roads. However, the fuel economy could be better, managing only 13.8 on a primarily motorway commute without towing.

Final Thoughts and Buying Tips

The Toyota Highlander is an excellent workhorse that can be driven daily without the hassle associated with oversized SUVs. Remember that Toyota is known for its discounts, so never pay retail pricing. Also, consider upgrading to Toyota’s five-year, 150,000km warranty if you plan to use the vehicle for regular towing.

See the Toyota Highlander for sale.

Specifications

Price: $58,990
Towbar price: $1030 fitted
Towing capacity: 700kg (unbraked) / 2000kg (unbraked
Power: 201kW @ 3400 rpm
Torque: 337Nm @ 4700 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic (4WD)
Fuel economy (claimed): 11.6L/100km
Length: 4785mm
Width: 1910mm
Height: 1760mm
Seating capacity: 7
Luggage capacity: 1200 litres (2nd row seating upright) / 2700 seats (rear seats folded)