The 2022 Toyota Highlander stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to crafting reliable and versatile SUVs. This mid-size crossover seamlessly blends spaciousness, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a capable and stylish vehicle.
From its bold exterior design to its well-appointed interior, the Highlander offers a compelling package that caters to a wide range of needs. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend adventure or navigating the daily commute, the Highlander delivers a confident and enjoyable driving experience.
2022 Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Review
The Toyota Highlander has long been a popular choice in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability. The 2022 model builds upon this foundation with refined styling, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vehicle, a capable commuter, or an SUV for weekend adventures, the Highlander has something to offer.
Design and Styling
The 2022 Highlander boasts a bold and modern design that exudes a sense of sophistication. The front fascia features a large, chrome-accented grille, sharp headlights, and a sculpted hood. The side profile is characterized by flowing lines and prominent wheel arches, while the rear end features stylish taillights and a sculpted tailgate.
The overall design is both aggressive and elegant, making the Highlander stand out from the crowd.
The interior of the Highlander is equally impressive, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin. The dashboard is driver-focused and features a large touchscreen infotainment system, along with intuitive controls. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, creating a premium feel.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys. The Highlander offers ample legroom and headroom for both passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.
Here’s a comparison of the different trim levels and their unique design elements:
| Trim Level | Exterior Design | Interior Features |
|---|---|---|
| L | Standard 18-inch wheels, black grille | Fabric upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen |
| LE | 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille accents | Cloth upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| XLE | 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille accents, LED headlights | Leather-trimmed seats, 9-inch touchscreen, heated front seats |
| Limited | 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, panoramic sunroof | Leather-trimmed seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, premium sound system |
| Platinum | 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, panoramic sunroof, unique grille design | Leather-trimmed seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, premium sound system, head-up display |
Performance and Handling, 2022 toyota highlander
The 2022 Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive acceleration. The Highlander also offers an optional hybrid powertrain, which combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for increased fuel efficiency.
The hybrid powertrain delivers a combined output of 243 horsepower.
The Highlander’s handling is precise and predictable, making it a pleasure to drive on both highways and winding roads. The suspension is well-tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. The Highlander offers a variety of drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Safety and Technology
The 2022 Highlander is packed with advanced safety features, including the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite. This suite includes features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The Highlander also features a comprehensive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. The system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Highlander offers ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The second-row seats can be folded flat to create a spacious cargo area, while the third-row seats provide additional seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander’s interior is designed for comfort, with features such as:
- Comfortable and supportive seats
- Plenty of legroom and headroom
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated and ventilated front seats (on higher trim levels)
Here’s a comparison of the different seating configurations and their features:
| Seating Configuration | Passenger Capacity | Cargo Space (behind third row) |
|---|---|---|
| 7-passenger | 7 | 16.0 cubic feet |
| 8-passenger | 8 | 13.8 cubic feet |
Final Thoughts
The 2022 Toyota Highlander emerges as a well-rounded and compelling option in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. Its blend of practicality, comfort, safety, and technology makes it a strong contender for discerning buyers. With its impressive reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior, the Highlander delivers a driving experience that’s both enjoyable and rewarding.