Semi silent & SUV

The Toyota Highlander has been a firm favourite for SUV buyers both in the private and fleet sectors for many moons now. The latest generation is the first to incorporate the semi-silent running of hybrid powertrains.

My test car was the range topping ZR Limited Hybrid at $74,990. All Highlanders share the same revised 2.5L four-cylinder petrol engine and hybrid combo with 184kW and 242Nm. The new Highlander is much more fluidic than the previous generation. It is also built and styled at Toyota’s US plant in Indiana and New Zealand and Australia are the only right-hand drive markets to get it. It is also 60mm longer, 5mm wider and weighs 75kg less.

The ZR Limited gets a Power Tailgate, Leather Trim for the interior doors, a 7-inch Multi-Information Display, Panoramic Sunroof, Sat Nav, Heated and Ventilated Leather seats and a very good JBL Stereo System on top of a comprehensive list of standard kit.

It is happiest at a low stress motorway cruise, with the revs low and radar cruise set just so. You have ECO, Normal, Sport and Trail modes on hand. The latter can be used to take your Highlander off the beaten path, though I reckon most will seldom leave tarmac.

In summary, there is plenty to like here.

FACTFILE
2022 Toyota Highlander ZR Limited Hybrid

Price: $74,990 TDP (Toyota Driveaway Price)
Engine: 2.5L four-cylinder petrol/hybrid battery pack
Transmission: 7-speed E-CVT
Power: 184kW combined
Torque: 242Nm
Combined Fuel Consumption: 5.6L/100km economy
CO2 Emissions: 128g/km
Weight: 2685kg
Cargo Space: 241L with third row in place