2003 toyota Highlander

2003 Toyota Highlander: Presented early in the 2001 model year, the car-based Highlander is the fifth-- as well as most recent-- participant of Toyota's sport utility vehicle schedule. It is structurally related to the Lexus RX 300, however the Highlander is a little bigger as well as has a different squared-off appearance. Fender creases are prominent on the Highlander, as well as fewer attributes are standard compared to on the RX 300, which is considerably a lot more expensive. Both designs are used with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), but the Highlander could be geared up with a four-cylinder engine or a V-6.

2003 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander is slightly longer as well as 5 inches bigger than the truck-based 4Runner. It promises SUV versatility with carlike trip as well as handling. Like the RX 300, the Highlander makes use of an unique equipment selector for the automatic transmission, which protrudes from the reduced control panel. Toyota expected to offer about 70,000 systems every year, but Automotive News reports sales of 86,699 Highlanders throughout 2001-- that indicates rather an excellent launching season. Little is likely to change for 2003, but Toyota has actually not yet released information regarding the upcoming design year.

Outside

Regardless of styling differences between the Highlander and also RX 300, both versions share the exact same basic style. The Highlander rides a 106.9-inch wheelbase and stretches 184.4 inches long generally-- that's 4 inches much longer in both dimensions than the RX 300. The four-door SUV is fitted with a back liftgate and also steps 71.9 inches broad as well as almost 68 inches high. In addition to noticeable fender folds, the Highlander showcases squared-off styling as opposed to slanted roof pillars like those located on the RX 300.

Interior

Seating for 5 occupants consists of 2 front pail seats as well as a split, folding rear bench that holds 3. The automatic-transmission bar installs at a weird angle listed below the dashboard, which is really a hassle-free area. The Highlander and RX 300 control panels have comparable formats, but the Toyota design has various audio as well as environment controls.

Under the Hood

Both the 155-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and also the 220-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 were obtained from the Camry sedan and also team with a four-speed-automatic transmission. The Highlander is offered with FWD or completely engaged AWD, which has no Low range. A limited-slip rear differential is optional.

Safety

Anti-skid brakes and also Brake Assist are basic. Choices include seat-mounted side-impact air bags as well as Lorry Skid Control, Toyota's electronic security system.

Driving Impacts

An exceptionally smooth ride combined with confident and qualified handling are the peaks of the Highlander picture. Hardly ever does this SUV lose its calmness, also when the sidewalk obtains rather rough. Body roll is very little in fairly limited curves-- reasonably. The Highlander is exceptionally simple to drive, as well as it has simply the ideal steering feeling as well as a well balanced experience on the freeway.

Acceleration is strong from a dead stop, however an added push on the pedal could be needed at midrange speeds, which can produce some awkwardness or undesirable sound sometimes. Resemblances to the RX 300 are a lot more obvious on the Highlander's interior, which is led by the distinctly positioned gearshift bar.

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