Pros: Generously sized interior provides 8-passenger capacity and good cargo room behind the 3rd-row seats; quiet cabin; choice of smooth, economical hybrid powertrain; separate-opening liftgate glass is handy
Cons: Mediocre passing power with 4-cylinder engine; 3rd–row seating is tight for some adults; some audio controls are placed out of easy reach
CG Says: The 2016 Toyota Highlander is unchanged except that the towing package is now standard on all V6 models. This midsize-SUV Best Buy boasts a long list of strong points, including excellent passenger room in the first and second rows, flexible cargo space, thoughtful small-items storage spaces, and high-quality interior materials. The available Entune infotainment system offers a broad array of up-to-the-minute connectivity features, and the optional Driver Easy Speak feature, which utilizes the vehicle’s speaker system so front-seat occupants can easily converse with occupants in the 3rd row, is a unique convenience. Highlander is competitive from a dynamic standpoint as well, offering a comfortable ride and decent maneuverability for its size and heft. As it has been for several years, the Highlander is a must-see vehicle in the midsize-SUV class.
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 7 or 8 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Toyota |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA, Japan |
| Base Prices | LE: $29,990 LE V6: $31,515 AWD LE V6: $32,975 LE Plus V6: $33,895 AWD LE Plus V6: $35,355 XLE: $36,815 AWD XLE: $38,275 Limited: $40,415 AWD Limited: $41,875 Limited Platinum: $43,030 AWD Limited Platinum: $44,490 AWD Hybrid Limited: $47,870 AWD Hybrid Limited Platinum: $50,485 |
| Base Engine 2.7-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 185 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25 |
| Optional Engine 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 270 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18-19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| Optional Engine 3.5-liter V6/electric |
| Horsepower 280 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
