The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size sport utility vehicle, engineered with Toyota's legendary quality and designed to stand out. A smooth performer, the Highlander also boasts progressive safety technologies and a spacious, flexible interior that seats seven in comfort; an available flip-up rear liftgate window provides quick access to the cargo area.

The Highlander is offered in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, with a choice of three trim levels: Base, SE and Limited. Available powertrain combinations include a 187-hp 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission, or a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic with manual shift mode. The Base trim is equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels, air conditioning, cruise control and a CD player with MP3 capability; SE trims add a power moonroof, power liftgate, heated front seats and leather upholstery, along with satellite radio, a USB port and Bluetooth wireless connectivity and audio streaming. Limited trims are further outfitted with 19-inch aluminum wheels, three-zone automatic climate control, a Smart Key System with push-button start and exclusive trim elements. Standard safety features include anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, electronic vehicle stability and traction control systems, active anti-whiplash front head restraints, front side-impact airbags, a driver knee airbag and overhead curtain airbags for all rows; SE and Limited trims add a rearview camera monitor and anti-theft alarm.

After a minor refresh last year, the Toyota Highlander carries over unchanged for 2012.<