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What it Is
2008 Toyota Highlander - 2007 Chicago Auto Show Preview: Smart in, strong out. That’s a tagline Toyota is using with one of its new rides, but if you’re thinking it’s the newly-brawny Tundra, think again. It refers to the 2008 Highlander. That’s right, Toyota is aiming to associate strength with a model based on the Camry/Avalon platform, albeit one available with four-wheel drive. However, Toyota cites data which suggest that Highlander owners and prospective buyers want added size and power, so when the 2008 Highlander arrives in July it will sport 270 horsepower, added size in nearly every measurable dimension, a host of clever and desirable interior features, and a markedly muscular appearance.
Why it Matters
Since its debut for the 2001 model year, the Highlander has been a great seller for Toyota, attracting buyers with its utility, comfort, and promise of Toyota reliability. But, even so, six years is a long time for a vehicle to go without any major updates, especially when the vehicle is playing in the emerging, and hence increasingly competitive, crossover market. Couple this with Toyota’s own data indicating a need for a larger and more powerful Highlander, and its clear to understand why this rendition of one the brand’s most popular models is so important. Plus, the recently overhauled Toyota RAV4, now sporting up to three rows and nearly 270 horsepower, places the current Highlander on the border of redundancy.
What’s Under the Hood
As Toyota officials tell it, previous Highlander buyers, as well as Highlander shoppers who ultimately opted for a different vehicle, have requested added size and power from the next-generation model. All should be satisfied when the 2008 model hits the streets in July. Replacing the current Highlander’s 215-horsepower 3.3-liter six-cylinder will be a 3.5-liter V6 boasting 270 horsepower and 249 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission will put the power to the pavement, and both front- and four-wheel-drive variants will be available. Each Highlander will also employ Toyota’s STAR safety system, including ABS, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, electronic brake assistance, and stability control.
What it Looks Like
Well, one thing’s obvious – the 2008 Toyota Highlander has grown. In fact, the redesign resulted in an extra three inches in the wheelbase, a one-inch higher ground clearance, four inches of added body length, and three inches of newly-developed width. On the scales, all that extra Highlander equals another 500 pounds of curb weight, though it also translates into more than 12 cubic feet of added interior volume. Outside, sculpted wheel flares and a wide, tall front grille and fascia treatment lend the new Highlander a more pronounced and aggressive appearance. Likewise, the tail has been reworked with restyled, wedged lamps and a redesigned fascia with integrated lower lenses. The interior is accented by pronounced gauges, soft shapes, and large control dials.
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