Toyota Highlander

Toyota Highlander/Toyota Kluger

Manufacturer	Toyota
Also called	Toyota Kluger
Production	2000–present
Model years	2001–present
Class	Mid-size crossover SUV
Body style	5-door wagon
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel drive Front-engine, all-wheel drive

The Toyota Highlander/Kluger is a midsize crossover SUV produced by Toyota. It is a taller, heavier version of the Toyota Camry.

Announced in April 2000 at the New York Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and January, 2001, in North America, the Highlander became the first car-based midsize SUV or midsize crossover. The Highlander is the crossover counterpart to the more rugged, truck-based midsize 4Runner and became Toyota's best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006.

Unable to use the Highlander name in Japan and Australia because of a trademarked Hyundai Terracan trim line, Toyota calls the vehicle the Toyota Kluger (トヨタ クルーガー, Toyota Kurūgā) (pronounced Klu-ger) there, the name derived from the German word klüger, which means clever or wise.

First generation (XU20; 2000–2007)

First generation

Production	2000–2007
Model years	2001–2007
Assembly	Kyūshū, Japan
Engine	2.4 L 2AZ-FE I4 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	106.9 in (2,715 mm)
Length	2001: 184.3 in 2002–03: 184.4 in (4,684 mm) 2004–07: 184.6 in (4,689 mm) Hybrid: 185.6 in (4,714 mm)
Width	71.9 in (1,826 mm)
Height	2001–05 4WD: 66.5 in (1,689 mm) 2001–05 Limited 4WD: 68.7 in (1,745 mm) 2003–05 FWD: 66.1 in (1,679 mm) 2003–05 Limited FWD: 68.3 in (1,735 mm) 2006–07 FWD: 67.9 in (1,725 mm) 2006–07 4WD & FWD Hybrid: 68.3 in (1,735 mm) 4WD Hybrid: 68.9 in (1,750 mm)
Curb weight	3,784 lb (1,716 kg)
Related	Lexus RX (XU10)

The Highlander (or Kluger in Japan and Australia) shared a platform with its Lexus RX/Toyota Harrier cousin. It came in five (2001–2007) and seven-seat (2004–2007) configurations and became a sales success for Toyota in a number of markets across the world. The Highlander came standard with front wheel drive and offered all wheel drive (50:50 front:rear fixed torque split). Unlike Toyota's own 4Runner and other midsized competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, or Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the Highlander aimed for on-road comfort with its unit body construction and independent rear suspension. Although it was longer than the 1996–2002 4Runner available at the time it was launched, the Highlander was surpassed in length by the redesigned 4Runner in 2003.

The Highlander was available in three trim lines in the United States: the base model, the Sport model, and the Limited model. The base and Limited models were present when the Highlander was initially introduced, while the Sport model was introduced in March 2006.

In 2004 the wheels on the Limited trim changed from a six-spoke, to a five-spoke alloy. The base-model Highlander wheels also changed from steel-rims to the alloy wheels that were on the 2001–2003 model year Highlander Limited and B-Package. The Sport models had a distinctive grille design, differentiating themselves from the non-Sport models. Wheel styling also serves to differentiate the various models—the hybrid sports a unique twin-spoke design.

The Kluger was introduced to Australia during 2003. It was available in three guises: CV, CVX, and Grande. A limited edition CV Sport model was also released in 2006. There was no hybrid model available in Australia. The only engine offered was the 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6.

Engines:

• 2001–2007 2.4 L 2AZ-FE I4, 155 hp (119 kW)
• 2001–2003 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6, 220 hp (164 kW)
• 2004–2007 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6, 225 hp (172 kW)

The 3.0-liter engine was able to propel the Kluger from 0–60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds. In 2004 the Kluger was given a new 3.3-liter V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly the Nissan Murano and the Honda Pilot. The larger engine made it possible for the Kluger to reach 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.8 seconds.

Model year changes

2004–2007 Toyota Highlander Limited

In addition to the 3.3-liter engine, 2004 V6-powered models were equipped with a new five-speed automatic transmission, replacing a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 4-cylinder models continued to use the old 4-speed automatic transmission. This year also saw the introduction of the optional third row seat allowing for two additional passengers. The unibody was slightly modified behind the second row seats to include a depression in the trunk floor able to accommodate the optional third row seating. On models without third row seating, this depression was turned into a storage compartment. (Prior to 2004 the spare tire was accessible from inside the vehicle where the third row seating would subsequently be located; beginning in 2004 the spare tire is accessible from underneath the vehicle.) Subtle changes to the front grille, front and rear bumpers, and headlights round-out the major changes for the 2004 mid-cycle refresh.

Beginning in 2006, Highlanders sold in Canada are offered only in a V6 all-wheel drive configuration. Hybrid models are available with part-time four-wheel drive which Toyota refers to as 4WD-i where the rear wheels are powered by the separate electric motor. This system is intended for use on snow and ice, and is prone to overheating the rear electric motor off-road.

Base models are equipped with a limited slip differential, while up-scale models have a stability control system.

2003–2007 Toyota Kluger Grande, Australia

The Japanese and Australian Kluger was released with a centre console integrated with the dashboard, while the North American Highlander initially lacked this integrated centre console. The integrated centre console was introduced in all U.S. Highlanders and in Canadian Limited Highlanders in the 2002 model year, and in all Canadian Highlanders in the 2003 model year. However, for these early Highlanders without the integrated centre console, a smaller non-integrated stand-alone centre console was available as an option, which was installed at the factory or could be installed by the dealer.

Typical fuel economy using the Australian standard testing regime is 12.3 L/100 km (23.0 mpg_-imp; 19.1 mpg_-US).

Safety

Anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution were standard, Vehicle Stability Control w/traction control optional on 2001–03 models became standard for 2004 models (Hybrids come standard with VDIM). Also standard for 2004 was a tire pressure monitor. Front seat-mounted side torso airbags were optional on 2001–06 models, while front and second row side curtain airbags were optional on 2004–06 models. Side airbags became standard on 2007 models and the curtain airbags gained a rollover sensor that year as well.

NHTSA crash test ratings, no side airbags (2002):

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:

NHTSA crash test ratings, no side airbags (2004):

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover (2005):

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests the Highlander was rated "Good" overall in the frontal offset crash test. The IIHS reported the Highlander had one of the lowest driver fatality rates among all vehicles, and amongst SUVs, only the Toyota 4Runner had a lower driver fatality rate. This report looked at 2001–05 model year vehicles in the USA.

Hybrid (MHU28, 2005–2007)

Highlander Hybrid Limited

Initially, the Kluger was a regular, non-hybrid SUV driven by an internal combustion engine, but later Toyota introduced a hybrid version, the Kluger Hybrid that utilizes the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology combined with the company's 3MZ-FE 3.3-liter V6 engine offered in either FWD or AWD trim. The hybrid drivetrain was unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, and was offered to the public in July 2005 as a 2006 model. The power steering pump, water pump and AC compressor were changed from belt-drive to electrically powered versions. A modified alternator was incorporated into the hybrid system.

In North America, the hybrid version was called the Highlander Hybrid. It was also the first seven-seat hybrid vehicle. With the electric motors providing power including lower speeds overall acceleration is improved particularity at passing speeds. Other additions include Toyota's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB). The California Air Resources Board gave it a SULEV emission rating. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (revised standards) rated it at 28 mpg_-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg_-imp) City/25 mpg_-US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg_-imp) Highway for FWD models and 27 mpg_-US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg_-imp)/25 mpg_-US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg_-imp) for AWD models. This system is near identical to that of the Lexus RX 400h. All-wheel drive models were rated to tow 3,500 lb (1,600 kg).

Second generation (XU40; 2007–present)

Second generation

Also called	Guangzhou-Toyota Highlander (PRC)
Production	2007–present
Model years	2008–present
Assembly	Guangzhou, China Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan Princeton, Indiana, United States (TMMI Oct 2009–present, North America only)
Engine	2.7 L 1AR-FE I4 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6 (hybrid) 3.5 L 2GR-FXE V6 (hybrid)
Transmission	5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	109.8 in (2,789 mm)
Length	188.4 in (4,785 mm)
Width	2008-2010: 75.2 in (1,910 mm) 2011-: 1,917 mm (75.5 in)
Height	2008-2010: 69.3 in (1,760 mm) 2011-: 1,729 mm (68.1 in)
Curb weight	4,045 lb (1,835 kg)
Related	Lexus RX Toyota Sienna Toyota Camry Toyota Camry Solara

Toyota revealed the second-generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, with American sales beginning in July and hybrids in late September. But the second-generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid are not sold in Japan. The five-seat Highlander for the United States and Canada was dropped as the larger Venza replaced it.

Initially the sole powertrain for the 2008 Highlander was a 270 horsepower (201 kW) 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 mated to a five-speed automatic. The four-cylinder model had been discontinued but added again in 2009. While the 3.5-liter engine has 55 more bhp than the previous 3.3-liter V6 and dimensional increases along with increased sound proofing added nearly 500 pounds to the vehicle's curb weight of approximately 4,000 lbs, fuel economy is slightly improved. The EPA estimated fuel economy for front-wheel drive models is at 18 mpg_-US (13 L/100 km; 22 mpg_-imp) city / 24 mpg_-US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg_-imp) highway (last gen: 17 mpg_-US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg_-imp) city / 23 mpg_-US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg_-imp) hwy).

2007–2010 Toyota Kluger (GSU45R) KX-S (Australia)

2010 Toyota Kluger (GSU40R) KX-R (Australia)

For 2009, Toyota again offered a 4-cylinder for 5-passenger front-wheel drive models with the all-new ULEV-II certified 2.7-liter 1AR-FE I4 paired to a six-speed automatic. It generates 187 hp (139 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 186 ft·lbf (252 N·m) of peak torque at 4,100 rpm on regular 87 octane fuel. The four-cylinder delivers an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg_-US (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg_-imp) city and 27 mpg_-US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg_-imp) highway. This is better than the previous model's four cylinder with 19 mpg_-US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg_-imp)/25 mpg_-US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg_-imp).

The same three trim levels were offered (Base, Sport, and Limited) until early 2010 when the SE model replaced the Sport model, buyers are still able to choose between front-drive or all-wheel drive on V6 platforms. Also new is an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Sport and Limited models get a standard backup camera using a 3.5-inch LCD display. Major options include leather seats, heated seats, a touch-screen DVD based navigation system, a new Smart Key System, an upgraded JBL Synthesis stereo, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch screen, and a towing package that increases towing capacity to 5000 pounds.

Currently, the Highlander/Kluger is produced in Japan for global markets. Toyota had intended on building the Highlander in Blue Springs, Mississippi for the North American market in the 2011 model year. However, the Prius will be built there instead, and the Highlander is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of the North America, replacing Tundra production. At this time, no decision has been made on Highlander Hybrid production at TMMI. TMMI Highlander production began in October 2009.

In Australia, the new generation Kluger was launched in August, 2007. There are three grades available, KX-R, KX-S and Grande. All grades are available with either 2WD or AWD. The base model KX-R is also available with either five or seven seats, whilst the latter grades are seven seaters only. Specifications are mostly similar to the US Highlander, sharing the same 3.5 litre V6 2GR-FE engine and five-speed automatic transmission. However, there are no plans at present to introduce a hybrid version of the Kluger into the Australian market.

2010 Update

2010 Toyota Kluger (GSU45R) KX-S (Australia)

In 2010, for the 2011 model year, Toyota is making some changes to the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid. While the general design remains similar to the 2010 model, the Highlander's front end has been significantly revised, now featuring new headlights, a new black with chrome accent rocker panel, and new front grille. The non-hybrid engines for 2011 remain the same, although now the 2.7-liter four cylinder engine may be had on the SE trim level, previously only available on the base model. More standard features are now equipped on all trim levels, with the base model receiving front and rear air conditioning, power locks/windows, cruise control, and a multi-function keyless entry control.

Safety/crash testing

All models come standard with enhanced Vehicle Stability Control which immediately alters electric powering steering assist w/traction control (hybrids come standard with VDIM), anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. Also standard is a tire pressure monitor, a driver's knee airbag, front seat-mounted side torso airbags, side curtain airbags for all three rows which includes a rollover sensor and active front headrests. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard which prevents rolling backwards on slopes, and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is standard on AWD trims.

NHTSA crash test ratings (2008):

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:

The IIHS rates the Highlander "Good" overall in their frontal offset crash test, and good in all subcategories except for "Head/neck," which is rated as "Acceptable." And "Good" overall in the side impact crash test, with "Good" rating in all nine measured categories. The Highlander is also rated "Good" in the roof strength test, giving it a Top Safety Pick award.

In Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) testing the Kluger is given a rating but only a rating for pedestrian protection.

The safety and effectiveness of the Highlander/Kluger's Vehicle Stability Control system has been questioned by some motoring journalists. During testing for Wheels magazine Car of the Year in 2007, the magazine's editor rolled the vehicle during high-speed gravel road testing. Noting that it was the first such event in the magazine's 45 year history, he criticised the vehicle's stability system stating that "Deficiencies in the Kluger's ESP contributed to the crash". Six of the seven other judges also stated that they felt "the vehicle's ESP performance was sub-standard", and remarked that the vehicle was "almost dangerous on dirt [roads]". In a written response, Toyota disputed the circumstances of the accident and criticised the testing procedures as "unscientific".

Hybrid

2008-2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited (US)

2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited (US)

The Kluger Hybrid features Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive which continues to allow an electric only powered mode for short distances and speeds. Weight and cost have been improved over the previous hybrid.

The expanded size and new features have led to an increase of 500 pounds to its curb weight. All Highlander Hybrids are all-wheel drive, and the EPA has rated the hybrid at 27 mpg_-US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg_-imp) city/25 mpg_-US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg_-imp) highway, same as the previous model. The Highlander's fuel economy, while better than the Lexus RX 400h's, lags behind the compact 4cyl Ford Escape Hybrid and latest RX 450h, but still produces significantly fewer emissions than the non hybrid version with a CARB SULEV rating.

The Highland Hybrid continues to use the same 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6 (208 hp) offered in AWD from the prior model, net power is 270 hp (201 kW). VDIM and Electronically Controlled Brake remain new features include a driver selectable electric only EV mode (when possible) and another ECON mode which restricts acceleration and minimizes air conditioning during acceleration.

For the 2011 model year the Highlander Hybrid received styling changes and was upgraded with the 2GR-FXE V6, a powetrain similar to the RX450h, now rated at 28 city/28 highway/28 combined mpg.

In 2006 the Toronto Fire Services purchased 9 specially equipped Highlander Hybrids as response vehicles.

Highlander FCHV (2007–)

It was a test vehicle using compressed hydrogen gas, with average fuel economy of 68.3 miles/kg (approximate mpg equivalent).

The vehicle was unveiled in 2007 LA motor show.

Chinese version

The Chinese version of the Highlander (ASU40/GSU45) was unveiled at the 13th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition.

Production

It was built in its Kyūshū, Japan assembly plant and its Ikeda, Osaka, Japan assembly plant beginning in May 2007. GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (GTMC) in Nansha District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China began to produce the Toyota Highlander starting May 25, 2009.

Sales

Including hybrid

Calendar year	US sales
2000	n/a
2001	86,700
2002	113,134
2003	120,174
2004	133,077
2005	137,409
2006	129,794
2007	127,878
2008	104,661
2009	83,118
2010	92,121
2011	101,252

Hybrid sales:

Calendar year	US sales
2005	17,989
2006	31,485
2007	22,052
2008	19,441
2009	11,086

See also

• List of hybrid vehicles
• Comparison of Toyota hybrids

External links

• Official websites for Australia, Canada, China, Japan, US