A midsize crossover sports utility vehicle (SUV), the Toyota Highlander arrived on the North American auto scene in 2001, first being announced at the New York Auto Show in the spring of 2000. Built on the Toyota Camry’s platform, at that point in time, it was one of the first midsize car-based SUVs/crossovers.
As the Highlander was unable to use its name within the Australian and Japanese markets, due to Hyundai’s Terracan trim line trademark, the SUV was dubbed the Toyota Kluger in these regions. As the years have gone by, the Highlander has gotten longer and wider, and its design has transformed out of the original “boxy-type” look it once had.
It also received an update with technology and safety features, as most of today’s cars have experienced, including pre-collision and lane-departure warnings, as well as blind spot monitoring. Of course, the infotainment aspects of the model have also been enhanced, with Bluetooth capabilities, an over 6-inch screen, and improved audio system.
A most recent update of the Highlander saw its tail and headlights redesigned, with updates to the car’s hybrid options as well. A fun fact: the most updated Toyota Highlander was approved to be used as an official New York City taxi cab. If it’s good enough for the Big Apple, then it’s good enough for anyone!