Highlander a popular family hauler
After a few updates hardly last year, Toyota's Highlander midsize crossover utility vehicle returns for 2012 with a starting rate of $28,090 (plus $810 freight) for the base two-wheel-drive gasoline-only four-cylinder prototype.
Prices range as high as $37,045 for the V-6 four-wheel-drive Limited gas-only model, while gasoline-energized hybrid versions begin at $38,140 for the base model and $43,795 for the premium Limited printing.
All of the hybrids come with four-wheel drive. Fuel economy for this model leads the midsize crossover part with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and highway.
The Highlander, which has three rows of seats and can carry up to seven passengers, was introduced in 2001. It received a perfect makeover for 2008 as it entered its second generation.
It remains one of the most popular family haulers, even with the growing football of competitors. Among them is another Toyota crossover in the same class, the Venza. It has the same Camry underpinnings as the Highlander but is slightly lower to produce it more carlike, and it has room for only five passengers.


