Bridging the Gap between Cars and SUVs
If you're looking for "the style, handling and comfort of a premium sedan with the space, functionality and driving
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| The Highlander experience is one of class mixed with convenience. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
confidence of a sport-utility vehicle" look no further than the
2005 Toyota Highlander. From its polished exterior lines to its refined interior, the Highlander offers its driver, and passengers, a comfortable and capaciously cool ride. The Highlander experience is one of class mixed with convenience. As of the 2004 model year, the popular SUV conveniently offers two engines, either a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder or a 3.3-litre V6, and three trim levels, a 4-cylinder FWD, a V6 4WD and a V6 4WD with seven-passenger seating.
My test Highlander came with the five-speed Super ECT (electronically-controlled) automatic transmission and the 3.3-litre, 24-valve, DOHC V6 engine producing 230 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 242 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm - ample power whether passing on the highway or driving up to the ski
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| Even with its nicely endowed V6 and relatively large SUV classification, the Highlander is certified as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV). (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
hill. And even with its nicely endowed V6 and relatively large SUV classification, the Highlander is certified as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV). Also an attribute, the Highlander is easy to drive. As mentioned earlier, it could be described as having the "handling of a premium sedan." Its fully-independent suspension uses McPherson struts and an anti-vibration subframe, plus coil springs with gas-filled shock absorbers and stabilizer bar, to make the ride firm but smooth. When behind the wheel, it almost felt like I was gliding across the pavement, it's just that smooth.
