2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE V6 All-Wheel Drive (SE), Predawn Gray Mica

2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE V6 All-Wheel Drive (SE), Predawn Gray Mica

Model Strengths: Roomy, good ground clearance, stylish and technology-filled interior, sleek exterior styling, available hybrid power and all-wheel drive

Model Changes: After a large series of changes for the 2017 model year, the Highlander enters into 2018 mostly unchanged.

Model Value: The Toyota Highlander is a mid-sized near-luxury crossover competing in a crowded segment where just about every major auto manufacturer has a hat in the ring. What makes the Highlander successful is its blend of technology, convenience and Toyota durability at the right price. With plenty of standard features, plus a bevy of options, all wrapped in an attractive package, the Highlander stands out in a crowded field.

Model Overview: The base model LE trim comes with a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower, it can be upgraded to the 6-cylinder engine for added power. In this guise, the Highlander is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. All the other trims from with a 3.5L V6 with 295 horsepower while the top of the line hybrid uses an electric motor in conjunction with a V6 to make 231 horsepower. The hybrid Highlander returns 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, extremely impressive numbers for a vehicle equipped with third-row seating. The Highlander comes standard in front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is an option for those who need it.

There are six trim levels offered on the 2018 Toyota Highlander: LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum trim levels

LE is the most basic trim, and is the only trim to feature the smaller 4-cylinder engine. However, it still comes loaded with 18-inch wheels, an Entune stereo with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, a backup camera, Bluetooth streaming, heated mirrors, 5 USB ports and third-row seating.

Stepping up to LE Plus adds several desirable items. Highlights include a height-adjustable power rear lift gate, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, satellite HD radio, 3-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The XLE trim includes a smart key and push-button start, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, roof rails to help secure extra luggage, rear window shades, an 8-inch touch screen, HomeLink, a navigation system and a moon roof.

The top-spec Limited trim offers 19-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, various parking aids and a blind-spot monitor, perforated leather seating, heated and cooled front seats, and a powered passenger seat. The Limited Highlanders are also the only trim that can be equipped with the optional hybrid powertrain.

Options include an LE Plus, a Technology package that includes radar-controlled cruise control, a Lane Departure system and automatically dimming high beams; as well as a Limited Platinum package, which includes everything in the technology package along with a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, rain sensing windshield wipers and a panoramic moon roof. A Rear Seat Entertainment system is also optional.

Safety is aided by anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control, as well as optional items like a blind-spot monitor. Of course, should an accident occur, the Highlander is equipped with eight airbags to help minimize any possible damage to its occupants

2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE V6 All-Wheel Drive (SE), Predawn Gray Mica