Toyota's 2013 Highlander is available in either two- or 4-wheel drive as base, Plus, SE and Limited trims. A 2.7L 4-cylinder engine that makes 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque is standard on the base and Plus trims, while a 3.5L V6 engine making 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque is optional on those trims and standard on SE and Limited models. The 4-cylinder engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 versions get a 5-speed automatic. V6-equipped models can be equipped to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Toyota also offers a hybrid version of the Highlander. All hybrids come with a 3.5L V6 engine and integrated electric motor/generator system that makes a combined 280 horsepower. The Highlander Hybrid has an EV mode for driving short distances at low speed on electric power only and the driver-selectable ECON mode limits acceleration to further conserve energy. Four-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission are also standard.
Inside the Highlander, there's seating for up to seven, with a third-row seat that folds and stows away and a 40/20/40-split folding second row that slides fore and aft and also reclines.
Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, front side air bags, roll-sensing side-curtain bags and a driver's knee bag. Hill start assist and downhill assist control are optional. The hybrid also includes the VDIM (vehicle dynamics integrated management) system, which integrates all of the safety electronics--including throttle and brakes--to more seamlessly intervene when a potential loss of vehicle control is detected.
An electric power steering system is standard on all trims and provides many important safety functions. Non-hybrid Highlanders feature "straight-line steering," a system that uses the power steering mechanism to offset pulling to one side due to uneven surfaces or hard braking. All Highlanders also feature a corner braking feature whereby the power steering assist helps the driver regain and maintain vehicle stability.
The Highlander's standard feature list includes 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control and power accessories. The fold-flat third row of seating is standard but can be removed. The Plus adds a backup camera with 6.1-inch display, one-touch fold-flat second row seats and a lift-up glass hatch. The SE comes with a standard sunroof, power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats and a power passenger seat. At the top of the line is the Limited, which adds leather upholstery, three-zone climate control, 8-way power driver's seat, an upgraded sound system with a 6-disc changer, Smart Key entry system, heated power mirrors and a heated windshield, along with a host of upscale cosmetic details.
Major options include a power door in back, voice-activated navigation, leather upholstery with multi-stage heated seats, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, 3-zone air conditioning, a tow package, a moonroof and a JBL premium audio system with Bluetooth. Available individual options will vary depending on trim level and region.
Roomy And Versatile Interior
Seating For Seven Adults
Responsive Acceleration
Confident Ride
Hybrid Availability
V6 Towing Capability
The big change for the 2013 Toyota Highlander is the addition of a new trim level--the Highlander Plus--which replaces the previous Tech Package while adding a rear backup camera, 3.5-inch multi-touch display, fog lights and more. Highlanders in base, SE and Plus trims now feature a standard Display Audio unit with 6.1-inch touchscreen. The Highlander Hybrid now includes as standard Display Audio with Navigation and the Entune multimedia package.
The 2013 Toyota Highlander is still seen as one of the best utilities available in the United States. Offering seating for seven adults, the Highlander is surprisingly versatile. When properly equipped, the upper-end Highlanders can tow up to 5,000 pounds. MSRP starts at under $29,000, and estimated mileage is 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for the base 4-cylinder trim. The hybrid version starts under $40,000 and is capable of 28 mpg in the city.
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