The current generation of the Toyota Highlander has been present in the market since 2014. Its last update was seen in 2017 for the 2018 model, but it seems that this popular crossover has already been on its way to hit the roads as a 2019 Toyota Highlander model. It is obvious that you shouldn’t expect any major changes and improvements, including those under the hood.
Exterior
As we have already mentioned in the intro, the fans probably shouldn’t be quite excited when it comes to the 2019 Toyota Highlander. According to the information we have got, this midsize crossover will mostly resemble its 2018 model and leave the exterior features unchanged. Instead, it will only undergo some minor refreshments and look more modern. The new Highlander should still be available in six trim levels. It will probably improve its suspension system and boost its performance. Some possible updates in terms of styling might include a new set of wheels or new body color choices, but we are waiting for more information at the moment.
Interior
When it comes to interior of the 2019 Toyota Highlander, it is most likely that this crossover will show the same cabin as the 2018 model. It will provide three rows of seats that will perfectly accommodate up to eight passengers. The seats will be comfortable and supportive with enough headroom and legroom even for the second and the third row passengers. They will also offer various other options in higher trim levels. The company might also improve the quality of materials used to cover the seats and the rest of the cabin. Also, some better soundproof and more acoustic materials can be used in order to reduce the outside noise and vibrations so you might expect a quieter cabin as well. Other minor updates and refreshments will probably be seen in its high-tech area. The new Highlander should offer an 8.0-inch touch-screen display with the infotainment system and features such as navigation system and USB ports, but it hasn’t been confirmed yet whether this crossover will include some of the latest connectivity options such as Apple Car Play. The Highlander will also include safety systems and driver assist features such as adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection and automatic high beams.
Engine
The base model of the 2019 Toyota Highlander will keep using the 2.7-liter four-cylinder that delivers the output of 185 horsepower and 187 pound-feet of torque. This engine is currently mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The other version should come with the 3.5-liter V6 that hits 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The top range models will use the combination of the 3.6-liter V6 and an electric motor that together produce 306 horsepower. Both of these V6 versions should be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2019 Toyota Highlander Release Date and Price
The 2019 Toyota Highlander should hit the market this fall. The price of the base model should start around $32,025.
Competitors:
Ford Explorer, 2019 Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Pathfinder.
