In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of the 2018 Toyota Highlander, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.
Overview of the 2018 Toyota Highlander Features
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that bridges the gap between functionality and family-friendly features. With seating for up to eight passengers, it offers a spacious cabin that can accommodate the needs of families and travelers alike. The Highlander comes equipped with a variety of technology and convenience features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone compatibility through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of available driver assistance features that enhance safety.
Under the hood, the 2018 Highlander offers two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 185 horsepower and a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower. The V6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifting and responsive acceleration. Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, catering to different driving preferences and weather conditions.
The Highlander’s interior is designed with quality materials and attention to detail, featuring soft-touch surfaces and an available panoramic sunroof that enhances the overall driving experience. The flexibility of the seating arrangements and the availability of a rear-seat entertainment system can make long trips more enjoyable for families. Overall, the 2018 Toyota Highlander presents a well-rounded package of features that appeals to diverse consumer needs.
Pros: Spacious Interior and Comfortable Seating
One of the standout features of the 2018 Toyota Highlander is its spacious interior, which provides ample room for passengers across three rows. The front and second-row seats are particularly comfortable, offering generous headroom and legroom for adults, making it an ideal choice for families or long-distance travelers. The available captain’s chairs in the second row enhance comfort and accessibility, as they allow easier access to the third row.
The Highlander also excels in terms of versatility. The second and third rows can be folded down to create a flat loading floor, allowing for increased cargo space when needed. With the second-row seats folded, the Highlander offers up to 83.7 cubic feet of storage capacity, which is competitive in its class. This adaptability makes it suitable for various activities, from family road trips to grocery runs.
Moreover, the Highlander’s cabin design emphasizes a quiet and refined atmosphere. Sound insulation materials help minimize road noise, contributing to a more pleasant ride. Additionally, available premium features such as leather upholstery and heated seats elevate the overall comfort level, making the Highlander a cozy place for both short commutes and long journeys.
Pros: Advanced Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a significant consideration for many buyers, and the 2018 Toyota Highlander shines in this area. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reflecting its robust safety performance in crash tests. The Highlander also earned high marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which recognized its superior headlight performance and overall crashworthiness, further solidifying its reputation as a safe family vehicle.
The Highlander comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which includes advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. These features work in unison to help prevent accidents and enhance driver awareness, making it a strong contender in the safety department among mid-size SUVs.
Moreover, the Highlander’s rearview camera and optional 360-degree camera system provide added visibility when maneuvering in tight spaces. With available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, these features contribute to a more confident driving experience, especially in congested urban environments.
Cons: Limited Cargo Space with All Seats Occupied
While the 2018 Toyota Highlander offers a spacious interior, one drawback is its limited cargo space when all seats are occupied. With all three rows of seats in use, the Highlander provides only 13.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which can be restrictive for larger families or those needing to transport multiple bags or gear. This may require some adjustments to packing for family vacations or trips to the grocery store.
This limitation is particularly noticeable when compared to competitors such as the Honda Pilot or the Ford Explorer, which offer more cargo space with all seats in use. Families who frequently need to carry a large amount of cargo may find the Highlander’s space insufficient for their needs, prompting them to consider larger SUVs or minivans.
Additionally, the third-row seating area, while suitable for children, may be cramped for taller adults on longer journeys. This can lead to discomfort and diminish the overall appeal of the Highlander as a family-friendly vehicle, particularly when considering long-distance travel.
Cons: Higher Price Point Compared to Competitors
Another consideration for potential buyers is the Highlander’s price point, which can be higher than some of its rivals in the mid-size SUV segment. Starting at around $31,030 for the base model and reaching upwards of $48,000 for fully loaded trims, the Highlander’s pricing may deter budget-conscious consumers. This premium can be attributed to its brand reputation and the quality of materials and features offered.
When compared to similar vehicles in its class, such as the Chevrolet Traverse or the Kia Sorento, the Highlander’s pricing may seem steep for buyers seeking value without compromising on essential features. While the Highlander offers a well-equipped base model, some competitors provide comparable features at a lower price point, making them attractive alternatives for families on a tighter budget.
Moreover, the additional costs associated with optional features and packages can add up quickly, further pushing the total price beyond what some buyers may be willing to spend. As a result, potential buyers should weigh their priorities and budget carefully before committing to the 2018 Highlander.
Cons: Fuel Economy Could Be Better
While the 2018 Toyota Highlander is known for its performance, its fuel economy ratings may not impress all buyers. The V6 engine offers respectable power but is rated at an estimated 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These figures fall short of competitors like the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent, which offer better fuel efficiency in similar engine configurations.
For families using the Highlander for everyday commuting or long trips, the fuel costs can add up, especially if they frequently traverse urban environments where stop-and-go traffic tends to decrease overall fuel efficiency. This may be a deterrent for those who prioritize fuel economy as a critical factor in their vehicle purchase decision.
Additionally, the four-cylinder engine, which offers lower horsepower and torque, delivers even less impressive fuel economy ratings, making it less desirable for those who value performance. Consequently, buyers should consider their driving habits and fuel budget, as the Highlander may not be the most economical choice in terms of fuel consumption.
Conclusion: Is the 2018 Highlander Right for You?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander presents a compelling option for families and individuals seeking a mid-size SUV with a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and strong performance. Its comfortable seating and flexible configurations allow for a range of passenger and cargo needs, making it an appealing choice for various lifestyles. Moreover, its safety ratings and technological offerings enhance its value proposition, particularly for families prioritizing security and convenience.
However, prospective buyers should carefully consider the Highlander’s drawbacks, including limited cargo space with all seats occupied, a higher price point compared to some competitors, and fuel economy that could be improved. These factors may lead potential buyers to explore other options in the mid-size SUV market that offer better cargo capacity, pricing, or fuel efficiency.
Ultimately, whether the 2018 Toyota Highlander is the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If spaciousness, safety, and comfort are your top priorities, the Highlander may be worth considering. However, it’s essential to weigh these strengths against its limitations to ensure that it aligns with your lifestyle and budget.