With ample of Camry DNA within the Toyota Highlander, people are still questioning the concept that grounds this midsize crossover SUV. Since its first appearance 10 years ago, the automaker has been promoting this ‘Camry wagon’ under serious threats of truck-based SUVs dominating the market. Well, you can see that Toyota’s refined carlike crossover has prevailed for the last decade.
The 10-year sales records have proven what people choose and love when they purchase this midsize crossover. It is a perfect combination of a quiet, reasonably spacious cabin with smooth, comfortable V6 engine granting it proper reputation and fame for reliability.
For the 2011 Toyota Highlander, the automaker introduces a few more standard features including restyled front and rear ends. Toyota has decided to drop down the Sport trim level for the 2011 model. Also, it has rear climate controls helping its base and SE trims. Lastly, you will have a 50/50-split-folding mechanism for the third-row seats, delivering convenience for passengers to haul the cargos.
Otherwise, the 2011 model remains similar to its previous Highlander. The Highlander still presents a smooth and quiet ride in a series of comfortable seats that can accommodate up to seven passengers. However, you may notice that the third row feels a bit tight if you have driven previous models. The second-row seats are also allowed to split in 40/20/40-folding and remove center seat so that passengers will gain walk-through access to the back. The second row is well-equipped with the comfort of captain’s chairs featuring fold-down armrests.
So, what are primary contenders for the 2011 Toyota Highlander? When it comes to larger cargo, the General Motors offer more cavernous interiors in the Chevrolet Traverse, the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia that can accommodate up to eight passengers. The Mazda CX-9 and the Ford Flex can bring some moderate to serious threats also due to their unique advantages. In general, the Highlander still strikes the sweet spot between the SUV-style functionality and passenger-car comfort.