The base Highlander kicks things off with front-wheel drive and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and up to 25 MPG on the highway. A 3.5-liter V6 is optional and is available with either front or four-wheel drive. Even the most basic Highlanders get body-colored power outside mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, power windows and locks, privacy glass and headlights with auto on/off. Inside, there are air conditioning controls for rear passengers, a six-speaker audio system with AUX input and cruise control. An optional Towing Prep package brings towing capability up to 3,500 lbs. for the four-cylinder and 5,000 lbs. for the V6. The Cold Weather Package adds a windshield wiper de-icer and heated outside mirrors. The Tech Pack adds SiriusXM radio, USB input, multi-information dash display with trip computer function, Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, 8-way power driver's seat, lift-up glass hatch, fog lights, black roof rails and engine immobilizer.

The Limited comes loaded with standard luxury features that nudge the Highlander into some premium territory. The 3.5-liter V6 comes standard, as do 19-inch alloy wheels, puddle lamps in the exterior mirrors, an anti-theft immobilizer and chrome roof rails. Inside, there's a three-zone automatic climate control, a 10-way power driver's seat and 4-way power front passenger's seat. The interior also gets woodgrain trim. Navigation and a DVD Rear Entertainment system are optional.

The SE gets more niceties that are popular with crossover shoppers. A power moonroof is standard, as is a power liftgate. This Highlander gets Bluetooth, backup camera, leather seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Both the 2.7-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6 are available. A touchscreen navigation system is optional.