Vehicle Overview Redesigned last year, the Highlander receives a new four-cylinder base version for better gas mileage. A 3.5-liter V-6 powers most trims, while a gas/electric Highlander Hybrid is also offered. It’s covered separately in the Cars.com Research section. Competitors to the five- or seven-seat Highlander include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9.
New for 2009 A new four-cylinder base model makes the Highlander one of the few midsize crossovers to offer four-cylinder power. The four-cylinder uses a new six-speed automatic transmission, while the V-6 has a five-speed auto. Other changes for 2009 are minor.
Exterior The Highlander is sleeker than its predecessor and features smooth sides. It retains the upright D-pillar of the prior model, and the liftgate can have a glass section that opens independently. Ground clearance measures 8.1 inches. Trim levels include the Base, Sport and Limited.
Standard 17-inch wheels
19-inch wheels (Sport, Limited)
Fog lights (Sport, Limited)
Available power tailgate
Interior Two rows of seats with capacity for five are standard; most trims have a third row, which increases capacity to seven. The sliding and reclining second-row captain’s chairs can be configured to handle three people with Toyota’s Center Stow seat, which can be removed and stored when not needed. The two-person third row folds into the floor.
Standard power windows, remote keyless entry, cruise control, A/C
Six-speaker CD stereo with auxiliary MP3 jack
Available six-CD JBL stereo
Power driver’s seat (Sport, Limited)
Power passenger’s seat (Limited)
Keyless access with push-button start (Limited)
Backup camera (Sport, Limited)
Available navigation system
Available leather upholstery and heated seats
Available backseat entertainment system
Under the Hood Engine choices include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V-6.
Four-cylinder has 187 horsepower and 186 pounds-feet of torque
