Competition
The Highlander 4WD V6 has a base price of $36,900 (the price dropped $2,750 a few days ago). The Limited model with navigation goes for $50,300. Hybrid versions are also offered, just like with the previous generation, and their pricing ranges from $41,075 to $54,220.
Here are some of the Highlander's rivals:
Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD, 253 hp, $40,795
Ford Explorer XLT with 3rd-row seat, 210 hp, $43,244
Ford Taurus X SEL AWD, 263 hp, $35,999
GMC Acadia SLE AWD, 275 hp, $39,495
Honda Pilot LX, 244 hp, $39,820
Hyundai Veracruz GLS, 260 hp, $39,995
Mazda CX-9 GS AWD, 273 hp, $41,995
Nissan Pathfinder S V6, 266 hp, $38,298
Saturn Outlook XE AWD, 270 hp, $37,535
The Toyota's price is now one of the lowest of this group. Only the Taurus X is lower.
Conclusion
The 2008 Highlander is bigger, more spacious, more powerful and more of everything you might think of. I find it now too big for my family's needs, but those who need space will be well-served.
However, this vehicle might have a lot of qualities, but it remains a little boring to drive, just like the old model. Rivals such as the Mazda CX-9, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook are a little more entertaining.
If the Highlander pleases you, though, I can't blame you because it's got a lot to offer. Personally, I think the base model does the job just fine.
Interior space
Powerful and frugal powertrain
Comfortable seats
Lacks a little character
Outward rear visibility is limited
Not much legroom in the 3rd row
None
photo:Toyota, Marc Bouchard
The Highlander 4WD V6 has a base price of $36,900 (the price dropped $2,750 a few days ago). The Limited model with navigation goes for $50,300. Hybrid versions are also offered, just like with the previous generation, and their pricing ranges from $41,075 to $54,220.
Here are some of the Highlander's rivals:
Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD, 253 hp, $40,795
Ford Explorer XLT with 3rd-row seat, 210 hp, $43,244
Ford Taurus X SEL AWD, 263 hp, $35,999
GMC Acadia SLE AWD, 275 hp, $39,495
Honda Pilot LX, 244 hp, $39,820
Hyundai Veracruz GLS, 260 hp, $39,995
Mazda CX-9 GS AWD, 273 hp, $41,995
Nissan Pathfinder S V6, 266 hp, $38,298
Saturn Outlook XE AWD, 270 hp, $37,535
The Toyota's price is now one of the lowest of this group. Only the Taurus X is lower.
 |
| The backup camera is very useful, but is not available on the base model. |
Conclusion
The 2008 Highlander is bigger, more spacious, more powerful and more of everything you might think of. I find it now too big for my family's needs, but those who need space will be well-served.
However, this vehicle might have a lot of qualities, but it remains a little boring to drive, just like the old model. Rivals such as the Mazda CX-9, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook are a little more entertaining.
If the Highlander pleases you, though, I can't blame you because it's got a lot to offer. Personally, I think the base model does the job just fine.
 |
Powerful and frugal powertrain
Comfortable seats
 |
Outward rear visibility is limited
Not much legroom in the 3rd row
 |
None
photo:Toyota, Marc Bouchard
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