Now in its fourth generation, the Toyota Highlander remains one of the most popular SUVs around. It has earned this distinction with a prized combination of dependable performance, versatility, and first-rate safety features. The 2022 Toyota Highlander has raised the bar even higher with a number of desirable upgrades that should expand its fan base. Let’s take a closer look at this outstanding vehicle and what makes it so attractive for today’s drivers.
Basics About the Toyota Highlander for 2022
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row family-oriented SUV that comes in a variety of configurations to suit virtually any lifestyle. Consistently one of the best sellers in its category, the Highlander is renowned for excellent performance in addition to top-level crash test scores. Its standard set of safety features is outstanding as well, including blind-spot monitors, active lane control, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
On the inside, the Highlander seats up to eight passengers and includes a generous cargo area for the occasional hauling job or weekend trip. The cabin’s materials are more upscale than previous generations, especially with the Limited and Platinum models. An 8.0-inch infotainment system touchscreen can be upgraded to 12.3 inches on higher trims. All versions include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and built-in navigation.
New Features
For the 2022 model year, Toyota has added a jazzy new Hybrid Bronze Edition to its Highlander lineup. In addition to its fuel-efficient hybrid engine, it’s incredibly stylish with either Cement or Wind Chill Pearl exterior paint. You’ll also enjoy 18-inch bronze-colored wheels as well as some tasteful interior touches that tie in with the theme. Bronze-colored detailing and illuminated door sill protectors highlight a unique geometric-patterned upholstery.
Apart from the new Hybrid Bronze Edition, Toyota has also upgraded its XLE and higher trim level Highlanders. These versions now include a height-adjustable power seat for the front passenger.
Performance
The standard Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and makes 295 hp. It is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and its independent suspension provides excellent handling. The Hybrid version features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for 243 hp. It comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
In addition to benefiting from the Highlander’s excellent handling characteristics, the Hybrid version also delivers outstanding fuel economy for a vehicle of this size. In the front-wheel-drive variant, the Hybrid Highlander gets 36 miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive version is nearly identical, offering 35 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
These are some of the highlights of the new Toyota Highlander for 2022. It continues to deliver top marks for a three-row SUV thanks to superb versatility and reliability. Call or stop by Ed Martin Toyota for a closer look at one of the best SUVs on the market today.


