In 2020, Toyota released the fourth-generation Highlander with its larger, more aggressive-looking body built upon the well-received RAV4 design cues. With it entering just its third model year, we expect the 2022 Toyota Highlander to be a carryover, save for some potential special-edition models.
The new-generation Highlander arrived in 2020 with a bold design built upon the success of the new-generation RAV4. It boasts a more upright and SUV-like design without losing its crossover character. It also features powerful wheel arches, a striking character line, windswept headlights and taillights, and more. Buyers seeking something a little sportier can opt for the XSE trim level’s custom look. Other than the potential for a few new special-edition models, we expect the 2022 Highlander to retain these looks.
Inside, the current Highlander blends sophistication with simplicity with its blocky steering wheel center, large touchscreen sticking up from the relatively thin dash, clean and well-organized center stack, and more. Moving into the XSE adds a custom feel with its available two-tone color scheme. We expect this interior design to remain the same in the 2022 Highlander.
The current Highlander is well-equipped across the entire lineup, including its entry-level L trim. That base model comes with standard three-row seating, cloth upholstery, 18-inch wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, five USB ports, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and more. Optionally, buyers can add more premium features, including a JBL audio system, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, and more. We anticipate these standard features and options to remain mostly the same in the 2022 Toyota Highlander.
Powering the current Highlander is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. As standard, the Highlander comes with front-wheel drive, but two all-wheel-drive systems are optional, including the torque-vectoring system in the Limited, Platinum and XSE trims. We expect this powertrain to remain the same in the 2022 Highlander.
Toyota’s big on safety, and the current Highlander is no exception. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and lane-departure warnings. In LE and higher trims, the Highlander adds standard blind-spot monitors. There are also optional parking sensors and a surround-view monitor. In IIHS testing, the current Highlander received “Good” ratings in all crash tests. It also has “Good”-rated optional LED headlights and a “Superior”-rated automatic emergency braking. Combined, this earned it an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating. We expect the standard safety features and ratings to remain the same.
