Base Price: $27,985
Price as Tested: $32,303
Why We Drove It: The redesigned Toyota Highlander is a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.


The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV that can seat up to seven passengers. It is equipped with a V-6 engine that drives the front or all four wheels. It first debuted for the 2001 model year, and was sold for seven years without significant modifications. For 2008, the Highlander is completely redesigned, inside and out.


Here is a summary of the major changes to the 2008 Toyota Highlander:
. Redesigned inside and out
. Shares platform with Camry
. Longer, taller, wider and heavier than before
. More passenger and cargo space
. Standard, more powerful V-6 engine
. 10 cupholders total
. New driver knee airbag
. Hill Start Assist and Downhill Assist standard on 4WD models
. Pass-thru second-row captain s chairs are available to ease access to third-row seat
. New conversation mirror lets driver see all seating positions
. Wider availability of a backup camera


The 2008 Toyota Highlander is offered in base, Sport and Limited trim. The Highlander Sport model adds a sport-tuned suspension; 19-inch alloy wheels; fog lights; leather-wrapped steering wheel; a multi-function display with trip computer, outside temperature and reversing camera; 6-disc CD changer; 8-way power driver s seat; upgraded seat fabric; a cargo area fold-flat lever for the second-row seats; silver interior accents; and special exterior trim detail for a sportier look. In addition to the Sport upgrades, the Limited includes standard suspension tuning; chrome exterior trim; folding heated mirrors; door scuff plates; leather upholstery; 10-way power driver s seat; 4-way power passenger s seat; dual-zone automatic climate control; woodtone interior trim; chrome interior accents; Smart Entry; illuminated entry; Homelink universal transmitter; an anti-theft alarm; and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.


Options depend on the trim level selected. Base models can be equipped with extras like a Cold Weather package, a Two Row Seat package that deletes the standard third-row seat, a Convenience package, a Towing package, a rear heating and air conditioning system, and a 6-disc CD changer. Sport and Limited models provide access to features like a JBL audio system with Bluetooth wireless communications, an automatic climate control system for the rear seats, multi-stage heated front seats, a power moonroof, a navigation system, a power tailgate, and a rear DVD entertainment system.


The 2008 Toyota Highlander is powered by a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This engine makes 270 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm. A five-speed automatic transmission drives the front or all four wheels, and the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.


Standard safety features on the 2008 Toyota Highlander include seven airbags: dual front, dual front side-impact, side curtains with roll-sensing technology for all three rows of seats, and a knee airbag for the driver. Additionally, the Highlander is equipped with antilock brakes and brake assist, stability and traction control, Hill Start Assist Control, and, on 4WD models, Downhill Assist Control. Sport and Limited models have a standard backup camera.


J.D. Power and Associates says the 2008 Toyota Highlander competes against other mid-size multi-activity vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica, Ford Taurus X, GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Veracruz, Mazda CX-9, and Subaru Tribeca.