2008 Toyota Highlander FWD 4dr Sport (SE)

• 2008 Toyota Highlander Review Summary
• 2008 Toyota Highlander Review Handling
• 2008 Toyota Highlander Review Safety
• 2008 Toyota Highlander Noteworthy

2008 Toyota Highlander Review Summary
The 2008 Toyota Highlander was fully redesigned in 2008 with increased size and improvements to its engine and easier access to third row and is rated number 3 by Allcarguides.com in the Affordable Midsize SUV class. As noted by most reviewers the Toyota Highlander has a tough time competing with the Murrano and others given its very pedestrian handling, acceleration and exterior style. Similar to the Chrysler Pacifica it has some of the characteristics o a minivan in terms of handling. Some reviewers noted that it is practical SUV but lacking in personality. The Highlander is larger – 4inches longer, 3 inches wider and a wheelbase that grew by 3 inches The Highlander comes with a standard 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, and 270 torque - the same engine Toyota makes optional in the Camry and RAV4. Since it is based on the Camry platform it combines the ride and handling of a car with the space of a SUV. The Toyota Camry comes in 3 trims: Base, Sport and Limited – All come with front-wheel drive and can add all-wheel drive as an option. As noted by a few reviewers, the Highlander takes affordable 87 octane unleaded so fill-ups at the gas station are a bit cheaper. The Highlander also comes in hybrid version and delivers slightly better mileage and environmental ratings, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, the Highlander Hybrid is expected to achieve 27 miles per gallon in city and 25 on the highway. The Highlander uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive full hybrid system to operate in full-gasoline, combined gasoline-electric, or electric-only modes and the Hybrid has a 3.3-liter, 209-hp V6.

2008 Toyota Highlander Review Handling
The 2008 Toyota highlander carries passengers and cargo (groceries) in comfort but id has a “numb feel” and simply is not considered to be a very sporty handling SUV when compared to top tier SUVs. Those seeking a more responsive feel, as noted by thecarconnection and others, should select the Highlander with Sport trim which has stiffer spring rates, tighter dampers, and lower aspect ratio tires.

2008 Toyota Highlander Review Safety
: Standard features in all trims include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control. The all-wheel-drive models also come with a downhill assist feature to enable slow, controlled descents down snow-covered driveways. The Highlander has a lot of airbags, 7 in total , including front-seat side airbags, three-row curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag. Rated “good” by Insurance Institute For Highway Safety.

2008 Toyota Highlander Noteworthy
: The Highlander has slightly better mileage than others crossovers in its class with 18/24 while the hybrid achieves better mileage of 27 in city and 25 on highway. Interior is not considered up to par against top of the line competition as noted by CNET and Cars.com which said that “Most areas are trimmed in hard plastics, however, and the textures lack the appeal of the stuff in several competitors.” One interesting feature is a small LCD display at the top of the dashboard stack, which displays the rear-view camera and hybrid system information. CNET noted that the electronics offered, though many optional, are above those seen in cars of its class with available voice-activated GPS navigation system and Bluetooth hands-free calling, optional GPS with a very large screen. The Highlander is considered relatively low to the ground which can make it easier to enter and exit. The Highlander is not cheap and costs more than $40,000 when fully loaded with options.