The 2016 Toyota Highlander impresses with its spacious design, safety features, and powerful performance options, including a hybrid model. It boasts modern driver assistance systems, high towing capacity, and excellent fuel economy, making it a top choice among midsize SUVs for families and adventurers alike.
The new Toyota Highlander is celebrated for its adaptability and balanced driving experience. The 2016 version introduces enhancements such as increased dimensions, being 2.7 inches longer and half an inch wider, offering more interior space. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, it rivals models like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer, with a hybrid option available for greater efficiency.
Major improvements for 2016 include:
Pre-collision detection systems
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane departure warning
Rear cross-traffic alert
Standard backup camera
Leather seats available from XLE trim
Comfortable tall sidewall tires
Up to 5,000 pounds towing capacity for V6 models with heavy-duty cooling
The four-cylinder LE variant can tow 1,500 pounds
Performance and safety highlights include:
The LE trim offers a new six-speed automatic transmission, achieving an estimated 22 mpg combined.
Most trims feature the 3.5-liter V6 engine, with options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive, delivering 20-21 mpg combined depending on configuration.
The vehicle accelerates rapidly, reaching 0-60 mph in roughly 7.3 seconds.
Safety features include front side airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction and stability controls, driver knee airbags, rearview camera, and passenger airbags.
It earned a top safety rating of 5 out of 5 in government crash assessments.
The premium Limited trim adds blind spot monitoring, collision mitigation, lane assist, and Toyota’s Safety Connect telematics for emergency, theft, and crash alerts.
The hybrid version offers excellent fuel efficiency at 27 mpg combined.
In summary, the 2016 Toyota Highlander is a dependable SUV, ideal for families, combining spaciousness with advanced safety and performance features.