Joining the ranks of other “diverse, dual-entry” vehicles, Toyota’s all-new Highlander is the newest family member in the Sport-Utility-Vehicle lineup. Similar to cousin Lexus RX300, the Highlander provides yet another choice for those folks coming out of a sedan. The “feel” of the Highlander is somewhat of a mix between a SUV and minivan. Although this may not appeal to some, we found the Highlander to be a pleasant blend of practicality and luxury.

Built at the Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc. plant, Highlander became available in January, and can be ordered in either front or full-time 4-wheel drive. Choice of engines includes the all-aluminum 4-cylinder or the V-6, 3.0-liter, DOHC, 24-valve with 220 horsepower. Our test vehicle came equipped with the V-6, providing plenty of power to pull off a smooth, quiet ride. And although we didn’t take the opportunity to try out the 4X4, we’re confident it performed well, as Toyota will.

The Highlander comes equipped with a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with “snow mode,” for those Midwest winters. Standard brakes are ventilated disc and 4-wheel ABS. Other standard safety features on the Highlander include dual front SRS airbags and whiplash injury lessening (WIL) front seats, three-point seatbelts, among other things. Available also are daytime running lights side-impact SRS airbags and limited slip differential on 4X4 models only.

On the exterior, Highlander is a cross between an SUV and minivan, or so many have noted. It’s different but not unusual enough to stand out. The styling is pleasing, with color-keyed power outside mirrors, grille, grip-type door handles and body-side moldings. Tires are P225/70R16 with five-spoke styled steel wheels.

Highlander provides plenty of space inside, making it possible to haul items and passengers. The rear seats are easy to operate and fold conveniently and without much effort. This is appreciated as we’ve driven some SUV’s where creating space has been a headache. A Limited package is available on the Highlander, adding such features as automatic digital climate control with outside temperature gauge, JBL 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD with eight speakers, in-glass antenna, remote keyless entry with anti-theft and engine immobilizer, dual sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors and extensions, leather-wrapped steering wheel/shifter, cargo tonneau cover. Standard equipment available on the Limited package also includes fog lamps, color-keyed rear spoiler, front/rear mudguards, privacy glass, color-keyed heated power side mirrors, daytime running lights and auto on/off headlights.

Our test vehicle carried a MSRP of $26,495, which sounds reasonable because standard features are many. Then you add on the options our Highlander V6 came equipped with and the price jumps to $30,350 (including destination, $480). In today’s world of SUV’s, this seems a fair price to pay for Toyota luxury, comfort and quiet.

The options on our Highlander 4X4 included a roof rack system ($220), heated and folding mirrors ($30), side airbags ($250), vehicle skid control, with traction control ($850), an appearance package with 16” aluminum wheels and tires, full size spare, color-keyed mudguards, privacy glass on back window, RR door and quarter glass ($890), convenience package including keyless entry and tonneau cover ($320), preferred package with 8-way power driver’s seat, garage door opener,/homelink with illuminated sunvisor/mirror, immobilizer with prewire for alarm ($645) and carpet/cargo mat set ($170).

We particularly liked driving the Highlander on open roads, as it provides comfort, roominess and quiet. The interior layout resembles its Lexus cousin, and this driver is getting used to the shifter located in the center dash/console. It seems odd, at first, to reach forward and upward for the gear shift, but it isn’t inconvenient.

The Highlander is available in eight distinct colors; ours was the Millennium Silver, particularly nice. There were hues of purple in the fabric of the seats, and depending on what light was cast on the Silver exterior, it too resembled a mix of colors. Nice touch.

Toyota also offers an optional towing prep package, with 3000 pounds of towing capacity for the 4-cylinder and 3500 pounds with the V-6. Toyota projects they will sell some 70,000 units of the Highlander in the year 2001, as it strategically takes its place in the SUV lineup.

SPECS
Wheelbase: 106.9 in.
Height: 67.8 in.
Weight: 3485-3880 lbs.
Width: 71.9 in.
Length: 184.4 in.
Engine: V-6 3.0-liter, 24 valve; 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter, 16-valve
EPA Fuel Economy: 2WD, 4-cylinder: 22/27; 2WD, V-6: 19/23; 4WD, 4-cylinder: 19/24; 4WD, V-6: 18/22 mpg.
Warranty: 1 yr/12,500 mile service adjustments; 3 yr/36,000-mile comprehensive; 5 yr/60,000-mile powertrain; 5 yr/unlimited mileage corrosion perforation.