2022 Toyota Highlander: A Deep Dive Into The USA's Favorite SUV

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2022 Toyota Highlander: A Deep Dive into the USA's Favorite SUV

Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Toyota Highlander, a vehicle that's become a staple on American roads. This isn't just another SUV; it's a statement. A statement of reliability, practicality, and a touch of style. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dissect everything you need to know about the 2022 Highlander, from its performance and features to its safety ratings and how it stacks up against the competition. Get ready to explore why this SUV continues to dominate the market and why it might just be the perfect vehicle for you. We'll cover everything, so you guys will get a complete picture before making a decision. Ready? Let's go!

Performance and Powertrain: What's Under the Hood?

First things first, let's talk about what makes the 2022 Highlander move. Toyota offered a couple of engine options for this model year, catering to different driving preferences and priorities. The core of the lineup was the 3.5-liter V6 engine, which delivered a robust 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Many folks found this combo to be more than adequate for everyday driving, highway cruising, and even light towing duties. This engine configuration allows the 2022 Highlander to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable timeframe, making it feel peppy and capable in various driving situations. The V6 engine is known for its reliability and longevity, making it a sound choice for those prioritizing these aspects.

However, the real game-changer in the 2022 Highlander lineup was the Hybrid version. Toyota has long been a pioneer in hybrid technology, and the Highlander Hybrid continued this legacy. It featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 243 horsepower. While the hybrid's horsepower figure might seem lower than the V6, its instant torque delivery from the electric motor provides a surprisingly quick off-the-line acceleration. The real advantage of the Highlander Hybrid is its fuel efficiency. This model offers significantly better gas mileage compared to the V6, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save money at the pump or reduce their carbon footprint. The hybrid system seamlessly transitions between the gasoline engine and electric motor, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience. For those who do a lot of city driving or long commutes, the hybrid is a clear winner in terms of overall value.

Both engine options were available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD configuration is a great choice for those living in areas with mild weather conditions, offering good fuel economy. The AWD system, on the other hand, provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions like snow or rain. The AWD system also gives the Highlander added capability for light off-roading or tackling gravel roads. Whether you live in a sunny state or a snowy region, the 2022 Highlander has a powertrain and drivetrain configuration to suit your needs and driving style. Understanding these options is the first step in finding the perfect Highlander for you. The combination of the V6 or Hybrid powertrain and the choice of FWD or AWD makes the 2022 Highlander a versatile vehicle.

Interior and Features: Comfort and Convenience

Step inside the 2022 Highlander, and you'll be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. Toyota has always prioritized comfort and practicality, and the Highlander is no exception. The interior design is clean, modern, and user-friendly, with a focus on ease of use and functionality. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, providing a premium feel without being overly flashy. The layout of the dashboard and center console is intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear display of information.

One of the standout features of the Highlander is its generous interior space. The vehicle offers three rows of seating, comfortably accommodating up to eight passengers (depending on the trim level). The second-row seats are versatile, offering either a bench seat or captain's chairs, which affects the overall passenger capacity and individual comfort. Even adults can comfortably sit in the second row, providing ample legroom and headroom. The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, but it's a valuable feature to have for those needing extra seating capacity. With all seats in place, there's still a decent amount of cargo space for everyday essentials. When you fold down the second and third-row seats, the Highlander transforms into a cargo-hauling beast, providing a massive amount of storage space for larger items or family trips. This versatility is a key selling point for the Highlander, making it a great choice for families of all sizes.

The 2022 Highlander is packed with a wide array of features, depending on the trim level. These include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen display and intuitive menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow seamless integration with your smartphone, giving you access to your favorite apps, navigation, and music. Higher trim levels may feature additional amenities like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium JBL audio system. The availability of these features allows buyers to customize their Highlander to match their personal preferences and needs.

Furthermore, the Highlander is equipped with a host of safety features as standard. These features include a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features work together to help prevent accidents and make the driving experience safer for everyone. Higher trim levels often include additional safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist with automatic braking. These safety features provide peace of mind and contribute to the Highlander's excellent safety ratings. Whether it's a long road trip or just a quick trip to the grocery store, the 2022 Highlander provides a comfortable, convenient, and safe environment for you and your passengers.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The base trim level, typically the L or LE, offers a solid foundation of features, including essential technology and safety equipment. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find more premium features and amenities, such as leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen, and more advanced driver-assistance systems. The higher trim levels, like the XLE, Limited, and Platinum, offer a more luxurious experience, with upgraded materials, advanced technology, and premium features.

The pricing of the 2022 Highlander varied depending on the trim level, engine choice, and drivetrain (FWD or AWD). The base model was the most affordable, offering a great value proposition for those looking for a practical and reliable SUV. The higher trim levels came with a higher price tag, but also provided a more luxurious and feature-rich experience. The Hybrid models typically commanded a premium over the gasoline-powered versions, reflecting the added cost of the hybrid technology and the potential fuel savings. When considering the price of the 2022 Highlander, it's essential to factor in your budget, needs, and preferences. Determine which features are essential for you and your family, and then compare the different trim levels to find the perfect fit.

Beyond the trim levels, it's important to consider additional options and packages that may be available. These packages could include features like a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, or a towing package. These options can further enhance your driving experience and tailor the Highlander to your specific needs. When purchasing a used 2022 Highlander, it's wise to review the original window sticker or vehicle specifications to determine the exact features and options that were included. Understanding the trim levels and pricing, alongside the available options, is crucial to making an informed buying decision. Whether you are looking for a basic, practical SUV or a fully-loaded, luxurious vehicle, the 2022 Highlander has a trim level to match your needs and budget. Weighing the pros and cons of each trim level is essential for ensuring that you get the best value for your money and enjoy a vehicle that perfectly fits your lifestyle. So, do your research, compare features, and find the perfect Highlander for your lifestyle!

Safety and Reliability: Keeping You Safe on the Road

Safety is paramount when it comes to SUVs, especially those designed for families. The 2022 Toyota Highlander boasts excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are a testament to Toyota's commitment to safety and their use of advanced safety technologies.

The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) suite of safety features. This comprehensive suite includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision. The pre-collision system can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and can automatically apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected. The lane departure alert with steering assist helps to keep you in your lane, and the dynamic radar cruise control maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle in front. The automatic high beams automatically switch between high and low beams, depending on the surrounding traffic conditions. These features provide peace of mind and contribute to a safer driving experience.

In addition to the standard safety features, the Highlander also offers a range of available advanced safety technologies. These may include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist with automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. Blind-spot monitoring helps to detect vehicles in your blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert alerts you to approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Parking assist with automatic braking helps to prevent collisions when parking, and the surround-view camera system provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings. These additional safety features further enhance the Highlander's safety profile and provide an extra layer of protection.

Beyond safety features, the 2022 Highlander is known for its reliability. Toyota has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. Owners often report few mechanical issues and high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles. Regular maintenance and following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule are crucial to maintaining the Highlander's reliability. Toyota's reputation for reliability can translate to lower ownership costs over time, as owners may experience fewer repairs and maintenance needs compared to some other SUVs in its class. When considering the 2022 Toyota Highlander, you can be confident that you're choosing a vehicle that prioritizes safety and dependability, giving you confidence and peace of mind on the road.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Like any vehicle, the 2022 Toyota Highlander has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these can help you determine if it's the right SUV for you.

Pros:

  • Reliability: Toyota has a stellar reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. This can translate to lower ownership costs and fewer headaches.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander Hybrid offers exceptional fuel economy, especially in city driving. This can result in significant savings at the pump over time.
  • Spacious Interior: The Highlander provides ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families.
  • Standard Safety Features: The Highlander comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, providing peace of mind on the road.
  • Resale Value: Toyota vehicles generally hold their value well, and the Highlander is no different. This can be a significant benefit if you plan to trade in or sell your vehicle in the future.

Cons:

  • Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults and may not be comfortable for adults on longer trips.
  • Infotainment System: While the infotainment system is functional, it may not be as feature-rich or visually appealing as some competitors' systems.
  • Base Engine Performance: While the V6 engine is capable, some drivers may find the base engine to be slightly underpowered compared to other vehicles in its class, especially when fully loaded.
  • Price: Depending on the trim level and options, the Highlander can be more expensive than some of its competitors. However, the value provided in terms of reliability, safety, and features often justifies the price.

Ultimately, whether the 2022 Toyota Highlander is the right SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the pros and cons, weigh them against your priorities, and take a test drive to determine if it's the perfect fit. Carefully evaluate your lifestyle and driving habits to see if the Highlander's strengths align with your requirements. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you choose a vehicle that meets your needs and provides you with years of enjoyable and reliable service. The pros of reliability, space, and safety often outweigh the cons for many families, making the 2022 Highlander a top choice in the SUV market.

Conclusion: The 2022 Toyota Highlander - A Smart Choice

So, there you have it, folks! The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size SUV. With its impressive reliability, spacious interior, excellent safety ratings, and available hybrid powertrain, it ticks a lot of boxes for a wide range of drivers. The combination of practicality, comfort, and value makes it a favorite in the USA.

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly vehicle, a reliable commuter, or a versatile SUV for weekend adventures, the Highlander delivers. By offering a variety of trim levels and options, Toyota allows buyers to customize their Highlander to match their specific needs and budget. From its efficient hybrid option to its robust V6 engine, you'll be able to find the perfect configuration to fit your lifestyle.

If you're considering a mid-size SUV, the 2022 Toyota Highlander should definitely be on your radar. Conduct your research, compare the trim levels, and take a test drive to get a feel for the vehicle. Check out the 2022 Toyota Highlander today and see if it is the right car for you! Happy driving, everyone!