Toyota has updated its midsize three-row family-friendly crossover for the 2017 model year. The 2017 Toyota Highlander, which will be officially revealed at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, gets refreshed exterior and interior styling, revised powertrains, and more active safety tech. Toyota has also added a new sporty SE model with visual and suspension upgrades.
Toyota is playing it safe in terms of design and the 2017 model year brings only a refreshed radiator grille and redesigned headlights for the Highlander. A new SE top trim level gets 19-inch wheels, sports suspension, and dark finish for the grille and headlapms.
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| Photo Credit: © Toyota |
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| Photo Credit: © Toyota |
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| Photo Credit: © Toyota |
A new eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the previous six-speed unit is probably the most noteworthy update to the 2017 Highlander. It's mated to a 3.5-liter V6 that Toyota says is new, but power levels have yet to be announced. The base 2.7-liter four cylinder carries over from last year with a six-speed auto and front-wheel drive on LE models only. For 2017, the Highlander Hybrid continues on with its continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
The taillights feature revised graphics, while the two range-toppers bring a chrome strip on the rear bumper. The SUV also adds two new colors on all trims, Celestial Silver Metallic and Toasted Walnut Pearl, joined by the Salsa Red Pearl, which is exclusive to the SE trim.
Toyota will introduce the 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid in showrooms this fall. Pricing is yet to be announced.
