» » Toyota Highlander 2003

Toyota Highlander 2003

— —
Toyota Highlander 2003: Introduced early in the 2001 model year, the car-based Highlander is the 5th-- and newest-- participant of Toyota's sport utility vehicle lineup. It is structurally related to the Lexus RX 300, however the Highlander is a little larger and has a different squared-off appearance. Fender folds are prominent on the Highlander, and less features are basic compared to on the RX 300, which is considerably much more costly. Both models are offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) or four-wheel drive (AWD), but the Highlander may be furnished with a four-cylinder engine or a V-6.


Toyota Highlander 2003


The Highlander is a little longer and also 5 inches wider than the truck-based 4Runner. It promises SUV flexibility with carlike flight as well as handling. Like the RX 300, the Highlander makes use of an unique equipment selector for the transmission, which sticks out from the reduced control panel. Toyota anticipated to market regarding 70,000 devices annually, yet Automotive News reports sales of 86,699 Highlanders during 2001-- that symbolizes quite an outstanding launching period. Little is likely to alter for 2003, however Toyota has not yet released information regarding the upcoming design year.

Outside

Regardless of styling distinctions in between the Highlander as well as RX 300, the two versions share the exact same basic style. The Highlander trips a 106.9-inch wheelbase and also stretches 184.4 inches long overall-- that's 4 inches longer in both dimensions than the RX 300. The four-door SUV is fitted with a rear liftgate and also actions 71.9 inches broad and nearly 68 inches tall. Along with famous fender folds, the Highlander includes squared-off styling as opposed to inclined roof pillars like those located on the RX 300.

Interior

Seatsing for 5 owners includes two front pail seats and a split, folding back bench that holds 3. The automatic-transmission bar places at a weird angle below the dashboard, which is in fact a practical area. The Highlander as well as RX 300 dashboards have comparable layouts, yet the Toyota layout has various audio as well as climate controls.

Under the Hood

Both the 155-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and also the 220-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 were obtained from the Camry sedan and team with a four-speed-automatic transmission. The Highlander is readily available with FWD or completely engaged AWD, which has no Reduced array. A limited-slip back differential is optional.

Safety and security

Antilock brakes as well as Brake Assist are common. Alternatives consist of seat-mounted side-impact airbags and also Automobile Skid Control, Toyota's electronic stability system.

Driving Impressions

A remarkably smooth flight paired with positive and capable handling are the peaks of the Highlander photo. Hardly ever does this SUV shed its composure, also when the sidewalk obtains rather rough. Body roll is marginal in fairly tight curves-- within reason. The Highlander is very simple to drive, as well as it has simply the right guiding feeling and also a balanced experience on the highway.

Velocity is solid from a dead stop, however an extra push on the pedal could be required at midrange speeds, which could generate some clumsiness or unpleasant noise at times. Resemblances to the RX 300 are more obvious on the Highlander's interior, which is led by the distinctly positioned gearshift bar.