2009 Toyota Highlander

Reviewers say the current Toyota Highlander benefits from a host of 2008 improvements that contribute to better overall drivability. The 2009 edition of Toyota's midsize crossover SUV continues with no design changes, but adds an economical four-cylinder engine option.

Built on a car-based platform, the Toyota Highlander is a spacious, comfortable midsize crossover SUV that offers room for seven. Most critics find the third row to be somewhat cramped, but Cars.com's Kelsey Mays says, "Depending on where the second row is positioned, the third row can be surprisingly adult-friendly." The Highlander's second row seat offers remarkable versatility, in that it can convert from a three-person bench to two individual seats with a center pass-through for easier access to the rear bench. The second row's center position can be removed and stowed or converted into a handy console, complete with storage and cupholders. Carrying passengers in the three seating rows means you have to trade some utility, however. "Cargo space is scant when all three rows are in use, measuring just over 10 cubic feet. Folding the third row yields 42 cubes, though, and with the second row down, there's a healthy 95.4 cubic feet." Reviewers also express disappointment that the third row seat doesn't fold in sections. Edmunds Inside Line notes, "The third-row seat folds as a single piece, so you're more limited in how you can load up kids and cargo."

The most popular engine choice for the Toyota Highlander is its 270-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is slightly better than many other midsize SUVs, with Environmental Protection Agency estimates of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for the all-wheel-drive model. A more economical base Toyota Highlander (*Est. $25,705) is powered by a new-for-2009 2.7-liter, 187-horsepower, four-cylinder engine, with fuel-economy ratings of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. There is a catch, however: the four-cylinder Toyota Highlander is offered with front-wheel drive only. For maximum efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid (*Est. $34,700 to $41,020) offers the best fuel economy of any midsize SUV.

Car-like comfort with good towing capacity

The Toyota Highlander is derived from the same basic vehicle architecture that underpins the Toyota Camry sedan, which helps account for the midsize SUV's highly regarded, car-like comfort. Standard towing capacity is 2,000 pounds, but when properly equipped, the Highlander V-6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds -- better than most competing midsize crossovers. Edmunds.com editors say "steering is light enough to make the 2009 Toyota Highlander easy to maneuver in tight spaces yet adequately precise while cornering." A low step-in height also adds to the appeal, NewCarTestDrive.com reports: "The Highlander's elevated ride height and upright seating position give it that desirable SUV trait but with easier step-in than what's found in older, truck-based SUVs."

A smooth, quiet ride is mentioned frequently in reviews, along with a suspension that is soft-tuned for comfort rather than spirited, sporty handling. Reviewers say the Highlander is a highly competent midsize SUV that does many things well, but they often say it is not especially enjoyable to drive and it lacks personality. Cars.com's Mays says the Highlander "should prove a smart -- if not particularly captivating -- choice for years to come." A sportier alternative, he points out, is the Mazda CX-9 (*Est. $29,820 to $35,205).

For those unsatisfied with the Highlander's snug third-row seat or small rear-most cargo space, roomier choices include the Chevrolet Traverse (*Est. $29,215 to $41,975) or its other GM siblings: The GMC Acadia (*Est. $31,890 to $40,490), Saturn Outlook (*Est. $30,625 to $36,450) and luxury-oriented Buick Enclave (*Est. $35,070 to $39,380). For another Toyota Camry-based alternative that is even more car-like, reviews suggest taking a look at the new Toyota Venza crossover (*Est. $25,975 to $29,250), which is basically a five-passenger station wagon.

Research sources

ConsumerReports.org reviews the Toyota Highlander and includes extensive information on its subscription-only website. In a three-SUV comparison test, Edmunds Inside Line gives the Toyota Highlander a second-place finish behind the Mazda CX-9. Edmunds.com also has an excellent summary review of the Highlander. Cars.com has a detailed road-test review of the Highlander, as well as a three-vehicle comparison article. ConsumerGuide.com bestows a Recommended rating to the Highlander rather than its top Best Buy endorsement. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards the Highlander a Top Safety Pick honor for its performance in independent crash tests.