2017 Toyota Highlander | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 Toyota Highlander SE

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: For 2017, Toyota Highlander’s V6 engine gets more horsepower. Power increases from 270 hp to 295 hp for non-hybrid models and Hybrid horsepower grows from 280 to 306. Most V6 models have automatic engine start/stop. The 6-speed automatic of the non-hybrid V6 models is replaced by a new 8-speed auto. Four-cylinder powertrains remain unchanged. There is a new sport-themed SE model and the Hybrid is now available in lower-priced LE and XLE trims. All Highlanders have revised styling. 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 3^rd 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.

The Facts

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: $30,630 LE V6: $32,680 AWD LE V6: $34,140 LE Plus V6: $35,060 AWD LE Plus V6: $36,520 SE: $39,690 AWD SE: $41,150 XLE: $38,520 AWD XLE: $39,980 Limited: $41,680 AWD Limited: $43,140 Limited Platinum: $44,800 AWD Limited Platinum: $46,260 AWD Hybrid LE: $36,270 AWD Hybrid XLE: $41,330 AWD Hybrid Limited: $44,760 AWD Hybrid Limited Platinum: $47,880