2012 Toyota Highlander Total Car Score Analysis

Even as it enters its second decade of production, the 2012 Toyota Highlander manages to earn an appealing Total Car Score. 
 
Among its high points are a refined V6 powertrain that delivers both strong acceleration and healthy fuel economy. Reviewers also had positive things to say about the Highlander's smooth ride and nimble handling. The comfortable seven-passenger interior with a sliding and reclining second-row seat and removable center section only adds to its family-friendly nature. 
 
Among the negatives reviewers pointed out is the fact that the Highlander's interior doesn't offer as much passenger and cargo room as many of its competitors. The third-row seats are particularly short on leg room, which means they're really only suitable for youngsters. 
 
The 2012 Toyota Highlander returns unchanged, but an all-new version is expected to be in dealer showrooms within the next year or so.

2012 Toyota Highlander Model Line-Up

The 2012 Toyota Highlander is a large crossover that's offered in base, SE and Limited trim levels. 
 
Buyers have a choice of two different powertrains, starting with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard. A 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 270 hp and 248 lb-ft is standard on Limited models and optional on the base and SE. The V6 comes mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.  
 
The entry-level Highlander's standard equipment list includes 17-inch alloy wheels, deep-tinted rear privacy glass, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seat, a 50/50 split-folding third-row seat and a CD stereo with six speakers. SE models add fog lights, a sunroof, power liftgate, roof rack side rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a back-up camera, Bluetooth hands-free cell phone and streaming audio capability and a premium audio system with satellite radio. Moving up to the Limited brings 19-inch alloy wheels, power-folding heated outside mirrors, keyless ignition and starting, three-zone automatic climate control, upgraded leather upholstery, a power passenger seat and wood-grain interior trim. 
 
EPA fuel economy estimates for front-wheel-drive versions of the 2012 Toyota Highlander are 20 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder and 18/24/20 with the 3.5-liter V6. All-wheel drive models with the V6 are rated at 17/22/19. 
 
With the V6 engine and tow package, the 2012 Toyota Highlander is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds.

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