Toyota has vast expertise in creating SUVs and also hybrids, and it’s developing both of these things together with impressive results – namely the C-HR and RAV4.
And now a new model that combines both of these attributes together is joining the Toyota range – the Highlander.
Set to arrive in Toyota dealers in March next year, the Highlander should add yet more appeal to the firm’s range.
Here are five things you need to know about it.
It’s the first time the Highlander has been sold in Europe
Over in the US, the Highlander is one of Toyota’s most popular models, but buyers in the UK, or indeed Europe, have never been able to get one here.
Until now, that is, as Toyota launches its fourth-generation Highlander on these shores, where it will act as one of the brand’s range-topping models.
It’s only available as a hybrid
As is commonplace with many Toyota models – including the RAV4, C-HR and Yaris – the Highlander will only be sold as a hybrid.
The setup features a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine combined with front and rear electric motors – allowing for all-wheel-drive.
Toyota’s only hybrid seven-seater
In the UK, if you’ve wanted a seven-seat Toyota SUV, the only option to date has been the Land Cruiser – a large utilitarian 4x4.
But for those wanting a large hybrid family car, the Highlander will fit the bill as it’s Toyota’s only hybrid model with three rows of seats. The boot is also huge, offering 658 litres of room with five seats in place, and 1,909 litres with only the front seats in position.
It offers a great mix of performance and low running costs
While Toyota is yet to announce full performance figures for the Highlander, with the powertrain producing 241bhp, it should have plenty of poke to it.
However, the advantage of a hybrid is that this is also combined with low running costs, with the Highlander set to return 42.8mpg, along with impressively low CO2 emissions (for a car of this size) of 146g/km.
Prices to start from £50,595
Toyota has recently announced pricing for the Highlander ahead of its arrival in March, with the model starting from £50,595. That buys an Excel model, which comes equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a panoramic roof and a JBL sound system.
Upgrade to the Excel Premium (priced from £52,575) and it adds a head-up display, electric tailgate and 360-degree camera system.
Order books for the Highlander are set to open on January 4.
Enquire on a new Toyota Highlander