Given that most Highlanders will only see light-duty use, the full-time 4-wheel drive system and the car-like suspension
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| All seven seats of the Highlander are equipped with three-point seatbelts and headrests. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
setup is a good match for this vehicle. Really what this combination does best is provide drivers with an increased margin of safety when it comes to driving in inclement weather or heading to the local ski hill in pursuit of fresh powder. The safety enveloped is pushed even further with Toyota's vehicle skid control (VSC) system and traction control (TRAC) system, both of which are standard Highlander fare; and that's worth applauding in my view. Toyota is also well aware of the need to enhance occupant protection. All seven seating positions are equipped with three-point seatbelts and headrests. The front seats are designed to help reduce the possibility of whiplash-type injuries.
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| Severity sensing, multi-stage, front driver and passenger airbags are a welcome addition to the Highlander's safety features. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Additionally the Highlander is equipped severity sensing, multi-stage, front driver and passenger airbags. The front passenger seat is equipped with a sensor to determine if the occupant's weight is sufficient for the airbag to be safely deployed. I really endorse the use of such sensors. I see many people hauling around small children seated in the front seat of vehicles that are not so equipped. Can people really be that clued-out about airbags, or that careless? Deployment of an airbag can be fatal to a child improperly seated in an airbag protected seating position. At the same time, not including a sensor or shut-off key makes the front seat useful only for teens or adults.
