The three-row family SUV segment is a competitive one, but the Toyota Highlander has carved out its own place in the market thanks to its stylish practicality and powerful engine options. Available as both gas-powered and hybrid models, the Highlander is a mid-size SUV that's helped to define its class in the two decades it's been selling to demanding family drivers.
Here are the key features and highlights you can enjoy with a test drive of the 2022 Toyota Highlander from our Goderich dealership.
The Highlander lineup received a major refresh for 2021, but the new model year sees several updates to make this SUV even more attractive. A new Bronze Edition is available for the hybrid powertrain models, pairing 18" bronze alloy wheels with new, eye-catching paint finishes for an extra level of exterior sophistication. Also, interior comfort is improved even further for the XLE and higher trims by the addition of height-adjustable power seating for the front row passenger.
All gas-powered models of the 2022 Toyota Highlander are based on a capable 3.5L V6 engine, making a healthy 295 horsepower and 263lb-ft of torque. The output is passed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all-wheel drive as standard on every Canadian model.
The all-wheel drive system is particularly impressive thanks to its dynamic power control, which distributes torque among the individual wheels to give smooth, reliable handling on all kinds of difficult surfaces. What's more, there's also a choice of driving modes including Mud / Sand, Rock / Dirt, Snow, and Normal to perfectly balance traction, power, and efficiency to match the conditions.
And lastly, the system can automatically direct full power to the front wheels only when all-wheel drive isn't needed, providing a significant boost to fuel efficiency. The result is a combined fuel economy rating of just 10.3L / 100km, an excellent figure for an SUV of this size.
But if you're looking for even leaner fuel consumption, the 2022 Highlander is also available with an advanced hybrid powertrain. The hybrid models pair a 2.5L four-cylinder gas engine with dual electric motors for a combined output of 243 horsepower, delivered at a highly frugal 6.7L / 100km. Again, the power is passed to all-wheel drive as standard, although this time through a responsive continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Depending on the trim level and configuration, the Highlander can seat either seven or eight passengers with a high degree of comfort. Lower trim levels feature a second row bench to seat three, while moving up the range brings optional captain's chairs seating two. Extra-large rear doors make accessing the third row easy, and tri-zone climate control delivers heating or cooling adjustable for each individual row.
One of the huge benefits of a three-row SUV is the amount of cargo space it can offer, and the Highlander scores very well in this area. With all passengers seated there's 453L of space behind the third row, rising to 1,371L with the rearmost seats folded down. When both second and third rows are folded, the cargo capacity rises to a generous 2,387L, making the Highlander one of the most versatile mid-size SUVs on the market.
But the interior features don't end there. All models in the 2022 Highlander lineup are equipped with an infotainment touchscreen, measuring either 8" at the entry level or a huge 12.3" on higher trims. All models feature a wealth of tech options supplied as standard, including smartphone compatibility through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot facility, Amazon Alexa integration, and satellite radio through SiriusXM.
Moving up the trims also brings integrated navigation with traffic and weather updates, a wireless charging pad, and a digital rearview mirror. Lastly, a head-up display is available to deliver essential driving information while you keep your eyes on the road ahead.
To complete the technology picture, every model in the 2022 Highlander lineup is supplied with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of active safety technologies. This comprehensive system provides perhaps the largest collection of features of any family SUV, with key standard highlights including:
Experience the comfortable cabin and dependable power of the 2022 Toyota Highlander by booking a test drive from our Goderich dealership. With its combination of performance, technology, and optional hybrid powertrain, the Highlander fully deserves its place at the head of the three-row SUV pack.
Other Articles That May Interest You
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is more than just a popular compact sport utility vehicle. It is the best-selling SUV in Canada and the best-selling vehicle outside of the truck segment. This kind of popularity does not come by coincidence. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 delivers everything buyers could ever want out of their next sport utility vehicle including impressive interior space and cargo capacity. Of...
Introduced on the market a few years ago, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross with its impressive versatility, fuel economy, and array of connectivity and safety technologies has been an immediate hit with Canadian consumers. For 2023, the Toyota Corolla Cross gets even better, upgrading its connectivity features with the brand-new and intuitive Toyota Multimedia system while also enhancing safety...
Completely redesigned with a more powerful hybrid system delivering more horsepower, new all-wheel drive system, and the latest safety and connectivity technologies, the 2023 Toyota Prius arrives on the market this year and is sure to be a hit with buyers looking for a hybrid vehicle that does not compromise. Let's take a look at some of the changes that have been made to the 2023 Toyota Prius....
