Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Toyota Highlander production commences in Indiana]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/toyota-highlander-production-commences-in-indiana/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/toyota-highlander-production-commences-in-indiana/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/toyota-highlander-production-commences-in-indiana/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2008 Toyota Highlander Sport - click above image for hi-res image gallery

The 2010 Highlander is now officially Toyota's 12th North American-built vehicle, with the midsized crossover rolling down the line at the Japanese automaker's Princeton, Indiana plant. Toyota has also streamlined its worldwide production in the process, as building the Highlander here in the States helps keep its West Virginia engine plant busy while Toyota's 250 suppliers increase production. Toyota says the addition of the Highlander to the Indiana plant also adds security to the 4,200 employees earning solid wages at the facility, and it notes that the company didn't lay off any hourly workers when production was slowed due to the economic downturn and plant retooling.

Bringing the Highlander to Indiana was made possible when Toyota consolidated production of the Tundra pickup from Indiana down to the purpose-built truck factory in Texas. At one time, the Highlander was scheduled to be built at Toyota's Mississippi plant, a facility that was never completed due in part to Toyota's lagging sales. The world's largest automaker by volume decided that it would be better to utilize the capacity that it already had in the States and abroad, and bolting together the Highlander in Indiana was a big part of that decision. The Highlander will be built alongside the Sienna minivan and the Sequoia SUV. Hit the jump to read over the Toyota press release.


Gallery: Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota Highlander production commences in Indiana

Toyota Highlander production commences in Indiana originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 toyota highlander2010ToyotaHighlanderhighlanderprinceton indiana toyota plantPrincetonIndianaToyotaPlanttoyotaSat, 10 Oct 2009 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota announces pricing for 2010 models, upgraded engine for FJ Cruiser]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/toyota-announces-pricing-for-2010-models-upgraded-engine-for-fj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/toyota-announces-pricing-for-2010-models-upgraded-engine-for-fj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/toyota-announces-pricing-for-2010-models-upgraded-engine-for-fj/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Toyota's 2010 lineup will receive a suite of aesthetic, performance, and safety changes and minor price bumps, beginning with the FJ Cruiser. ToMoCo's chunky 'ute gets engine mods that include dual VVT-i and roller rocker arms, returning 19 more horsepower and one additional mile per gallon, with a price increase of just $360. At the other end, the 2010 Yaris will count things like Vehicle Stability Control and traction control as standard on the whole range, and the MSRP gets nudged up by $150.

The RAV4 Limited gets a little more chrome inside, and the price doesn't change. Nor does the price change on the Highlander, unless you want the stainless steel exhaust tip that will run you $50. But the SUV does offer more amenities on the base model, including a backup camera and moonroof.

The Avalon's price goes up by $100. For that you get auto up/down windows in the rear. The Tacoma gets "an enhancement to the front cup-holder functionality," but no price change. The vehicles will start arriving on dealer lots in August and September, and you can read up on all these changes and more in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota announces pricing for 2010 models, upgraded engine for FJ Cruiser

Toyota announces pricing for 2010 models, upgraded engine for FJ Cruiser originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 avalon2010 fj cruiser2010 rav42010 toyota2010 toyota avalon2010 toyota fj cruiser2010 toyota highlander2010 toyota rav42010 toyota tacoma2010 toyota yaris2010 yaris2010Avalon2010FjCruiser2010Rav42010Toyota2010ToyotaAvalon2010ToyotaFjCruiser2010ToyotaHighlander2010ToyotaRav42010ToyotaTacoma2010ToyotaYaris2010Yarisavalonfj cruiserFjCruiserhighlanderrav4tacomatoyotayarisFri, 31 Jul 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota bankrolling $500 million into Indiana plant; no comment on NUMMI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/toyota-bankrolling-500-million-into-indiana-plant-no-comment-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/toyota-bankrolling-500-million-into-indiana-plant-no-comment-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/toyota-bankrolling-500-million-into-indiana-plant-no-comment-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The world's biggest automaker has confirmed that it is investing 44.9 billion yen (or about $467.2 million at current exchange rates) to upgrade its Indiana plant. Toyota Motor Corp. will reportedly spend the next three months retooling in order to build its Sequoia and Highlander SUVs on the same line (last year, the automaker canceled plans to manufacture the Highlander in a new plant slated for Mississippi).

Toyota also has no comment about the recent rumors that it had entered talks with General Motors about buying out General Motors's share in the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. (NUMMI) venture after the U.S. automaker announced last week that it was abandoning its 50 percent stake in the partnership. Toyota is currently negotiating with the United Auto Workers to adjust labor rates at the Fremont, California, operation. According to reports, the plant could shut down if those talks go sour.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

REPORT: Toyota bankrolling $500 million into Indiana plant; no comment on NUMMI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FremontGMHighlanderIndianaInvestmentManufacturingNUMMISequoiaTMMIToyotaTue, 07 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Batteries <i>Included</i>: Toyota rolls out certified hybrid program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/batteries-i-are-i-included-toyota-rolls-out-certified-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/batteries-i-are-i-included-toyota-rolls-out-certified-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/batteries-i-are-i-included-toyota-rolls-out-certified-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Underscoring just how important hybrid cars and crossovers are to Toyota's overall sales strategy is a new certified used hybrid program that will reside alongside the automaker's standard certified pre-owned program.

Like the automaker's existing gasoline-only program, certified hybrid vehicles will have passed a thorough examination with 174 individual points, 14 of which are hybrid-specific. Assuming a hybrid were to pass the inspection, it is then covered under a warranty that includes seven-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain coverage. Batteries are included, in this case under a pre-existing eight-year/100,000-mile factory hybrid battery warranty. If you should happen to break down, each certified Toyota comes with free roadside assistance for seven years. With over a million hybrids sold to date, Toyota has been seeing more and more come in as trade-ins, so it's only natural that the automaker would introduce a program to resell them and boost profit margins. Press release after the jump...

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Batteries Included: Toyota rolls out certified hybrid program

Batteries Included: Toyota rolls out certified hybrid program originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>certifiedcertified pre-ownedcertified pre-owned hybridcertified pre-owned hybridscertified used hybridcertified used hybridscertified used toyotacertified used vehiclesCertifiedPre-ownedCertifiedPre-ownedHybridCertifiedPre-ownedHybridsCertifiedUsedHybridCertifiedUsedHybridsCertifiedUsedToyotaCertifiedUsedVehiclesHighlanderPriusToyotaWed, 21 Jan 2009 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota delays U.S. crossover plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/toyota-delays-u-s-crossover-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/toyota-delays-u-s-crossover-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/toyota-delays-u-s-crossover-plant/#commentsFiled under:

Sluggish market conditions in the United States are the reason Toyota Motor Corp. is slowing down the launch of its new Highlander crossover plant in Tupelo, Mississippi. Originally scheduled to open in late 2009 with production at 150,000 vehicles per year, Toyota will instead begin production in May 2010 with an expected reduced annual output of 120,000 units a year. Of course, that number will increase if U.S. market conditions improve.

While the slowing economy is a leading reason for the delay, Toyota officials also confirmed that they are facing difficulty hiring skilled labor for the Tupelo project. They are now recruiting from around the country to fill positions in maintenance, along with tool and die engineers. Toyota expects to employ 2,000 workers at Tupelo. This isn't the first time Toyota has faced recruiting issues. When they opened San Antonio in 2004 and 2005, they found themselves challenged to staff the Tundra pickup plant. The Texas plant recently made headlines when Toyota slowed production of the Tundra. For the fiscal year, Toyota is forecasting operating profits to decline by 29-percent.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Toyota delays U.S. crossover plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 May 2008 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DeclineEarningHighlanderManufacturingMississippiProfitsSalesToyotaTundraTupeloTue, 13 May 2008 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Road Trip Vehicles of the Year as chosen by Thule]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/2008-road-trip-vehicles-of-the-year-as-chosen-by-thule/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/2008-road-trip-vehicles-of-the-year-as-chosen-by-thule/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/2008-road-trip-vehicles-of-the-year-as-chosen-by-thule/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



There are few words in the English language which can conjure up as much meaning, and likely so many memories, as these: road trip. We've all been on them before; some are the highlights of your life and some... well, not so much. But having the right vehicle can make all the difference in the world. Thule, maker of "transportation accessories", has added its name to the ever-growing list of companies that have invented an "__ of the year" award. For this particular honor, Thule has broken the automotive landscape in half, dividing its choices for the best vehicle to take a road trip in at the $30 grand mark. Without further ado, the winners are:
  • Best road trip vehicle under $30,000: Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited
  • Best road trip vehicle over $30,000: Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited
If you really want to read all of the reasons that Thule offers for choosing these vehicles, there's a whole press release pasted after the break. We're not going to argue with their choices, as both the Outback and the Highlander are fine vehicles, which would be suitable for a group of four people and their assorted belongings. Sure beats the old funny-smelling air-cooled VW van that had trouble keeping up with the slow-moving traffic that some of us can remember from our childhood.

Gallery: 2008 Subaru Legacy and Outback


Gallery: Highlander Hybrid 2008


[Source: Thule]

Continue reading 2008 Road Trip Vehicles of the Year as chosen by Thule

2008 Road Trip Vehicles of the Year as chosen by Thule originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>highlanderhighlander hybridHighlanderHybridroad triproad trippingroad tripsroad-tripRoadTripRoadTrippingRoadTripssubaru outbacksubaru-outbackSubaruOutbackthuletoyotatoyota highlandertoyota highlander hy...toyota highlander hybridtoyota highlanderstoyota-highlandertoyota-highlander-hybridToyotaHighlanderToyotaHighlanderHy...ToyotaHighlanderHybridToyotaHighlandersSat, 22 Mar 2008 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer Reports rates Toyota Highlander No. 1, won't recommend it]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/consumer-reports-rates-toyota-highlander-no-1-wont-recommend/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/consumer-reports-rates-toyota-highlander-no-1-wont-recommend/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/07/consumer-reports-rates-toyota-highlander-no-1-wont-recommend/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image for more pics of the 2008 Toyota Highlander from our review

Consumer Reports seems to have a few more fans ever since the folks there proved that they have no bias for Toyota by knocking the Japanese automaker down a few pegs. One of the measures taken after three Toyota vehicles, including a Lexus, were bumped from CR's recommended list was that no future Toyotas would get the benefit of the doubt and be labeled as "Recommended" based on the automaker's past performance. The first Toyota vehicle to be hit by this mandate is the new 2008 Toyota Highlander, which, despite becoming the highest rated mid-size SUV (it's really a CUV, but whatever) with three rows of seating, did not receive an automatic "Recommended" designation from the magazine. The Highlander received the highest score of 81 in CR's most recent test, while competitors that were tested alongside the Highlander like the Subaru Tribeca and Ford Taurus X scored 70 and 75, respectively, yet managed to earn the "Recommended" label. Like the Highlander, the Buick Enclave scored relatively well (75) but did not get recommended, with CR citing insufficient reliability data to make the call.

Though Toyota does not find itself in CR's good graces at the moment, the magazine has made it clear that if Toyota's reliability rating returns to "excellent", it will resume automatically recommending its models again. We're just curious, but do any CR readers out there know what other brands or automakers (not individual models) are also automatically recommended based on their past performance?

Click here to read a non-subscriber's version of CR's article, and click here to read our own review of the 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Gallery: Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport

Consumer Reports rates Toyota Highlander No. 1, won't recommend it originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsConsumerReportshighlanderrecommendedreliabilitytoyotatoyota highlanderToyotaHighlanderFri, 07 Dec 2007 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/20/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-toyota-highlander-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/20/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-toyota-highlander-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/20/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-toyota-highlander-sport/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Toyota Highlander - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Highlander's undergone a nearly Kafka-esque transformation from its start as essentially a Camry wagon with all-wheel-drive and extra ride height. For 2008, Toyota's middle-child 'ute has been bulked up into more of a maxi-cruiser than previously. At first glance it appears what's emerged from the chrysalis is a grotesquely overinflated Forester, but the new Highlander is more butterfly than cockroach.


Gallery: Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport


All photos (C)2007 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport

Review: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvfeaturedhighlanderhighlander sportHighlanderSportin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragesportsuvthird rowThirdRowtoyotatoyota highlanderToyotaHighlanderTue, 20 Nov 2007 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[More for less (kinda) - 2008 Highlander Hybrid pricing announced]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/31/more-for-less-kinda-2008-highlander-hybrid-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/31/more-for-less-kinda-2008-highlander-hybrid-pricing-announced/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/31/more-for-less-kinda-2008-highlander-hybrid-pricing-announced/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Toyota's revamped Highlander has been trickling onto dealer lots for about a month now, and Toyota's released details of the new hybrid version of the thoroughly improved midsize CUV. There are two trim levels available: base and Limited. Both will have the 3.3 liter V6 along with the 4WD-i system kicking out 270 horsepower. There are a couple different modes now, like ECON and EV, which should boost fuel economy in some cases.

There are now three rows of seats available, with a trick center position for the second row seats that can hide away. The Highlander has grown a lot, adding four inches in length, and three in width and height, too. Limiteds add nearly full-boat details to an already well-equipped base model. Things such as leather seats, six-disc changer, a power hatch, third-row bench, and more become part of the deal. Even with a newly designed vehicle carrying more standard equipment, the base model has seen a $190 price drop, to $33,700. If you must have all the goodies, the Limited increases in price by $3400, ringing up a bill of at least $39,950. The last Highlander Hybrid we had in the Autoblog Garage was $37,000, and failed to feel like such an expensive vehicle. The new Highlander Hybrid's appearance and equipment should help it pull off the crushing weight of its sticker price.

press release after the jump

[Source: Toyota via The Car Blog]

Continue reading More for less (kinda) - 2008 Highlander Hybrid pricing announced

More for less (kinda) - 2008 Highlander Hybrid pricing announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhighlanderhybridmsrppricingstickertoyotaFri, 31 Aug 2007 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[30 minutes with the 2008 Toyota Highlander]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/01/autoblog-first-drive-2008-toyota-highlander/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/01/autoblog-first-drive-2008-toyota-highlander/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/01/autoblog-first-drive-2008-toyota-highlander/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image to view more on-the-spot images of the 2008 Toyota Highlander

The last generation Toyota Highlander was one of the first vehicles to utilize a car chassis (from the Camry) underneath the body of an SUV. Today we call them CUVs or Crossovers, but back in 2001, they were just different. As a matter of fact, SUVs like the Explorer and Trailblazer were considered by many to be superior due to their more powerful powertrains, ability to tow large amounts of weight, and relative off-road prowess. In this age of $3 per gallon gasoline, however, Toyota's Highlander has weathered the storm better than most midsize body-on-frame SUVs.

Where the Highlander did come up a bit short was in the looks department. Calling the last-generation Highlander homely would almost be a compliment. The interior, while nicely built with high-quality materials, wasn't very usable, either. To see if Toyota was able to improve upon the boring-yet-successful Highlander, we traveled to Dearborn, Michigan, of all places, where Toyota officially unveiled the Highlander and gave us a chance to drive the vehicle around town.

Make the jump to read on.

Gallery: 2008 Toyota Highlander

Continue reading 30 minutes with the 2008 Toyota Highlander

30 minutes with the 2008 Toyota Highlander originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrossoverCUVfeaturedFirst DriveFirstDriveHighlanderHybridToyotaWed, 01 Aug 2007 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota announces 2008 Highlander pricing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/toyota-announces-2008-highlander-mrsp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/toyota-announces-2008-highlander-mrsp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/20/toyota-announces-2008-highlander-mrsp/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image for more pics of the 2008 Toyota Highlander

Toyota's redesigned 2008 Highlander is expected on dealer lots in a couple of weeks, and buyers can expect relatively modest price increases over last year's model. The mid-size SUV drops the standard 4-cylinder in favor of a 270-hp, 3.5-liter V6 and the interior gets some upgrades. Toyota brags that the larger, more powerful Highlander retains its 2007 V6 fuel economy numbers of 17/23 for 4X2s and 16/22 for 4X4s.

At the low end, the Highlander Base 4X2 model's sticker gets bumped $510 to $27,300 while the 4X4 is up $560 to $28,750.

Sport and Limited level Highlanders get standard backup cameras independent of a navigation system and 19" wheels. Sport 4X2 models get a $985 bump to $29,950. Limited buyers also get keyless entry and will pay MSRP of $32,700 for the 4X2 and $34,150 for the 4X4, which is $1,890 and $1,940 more than 2007 models.

Highlander Hybrid sales are to begin in September, and Toyota will announce pricing for those nearer the fall.

After the jump read Toyota's complete press release with details on interior goodies and other upgrades.

[Source: Toyota]

Gallery: 2008 Toyota Highlander

Continue reading Toyota announces 2008 Highlander pricing

Toyota announces 2008 Highlander pricing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 highlander2008 highlander hybrid2008 toyota2008 toyota highlander2008 toyota highlander pricing2008 toyota prices2008Highlander2008HighlanderHybrid2008Toyota2008ToyotaHighlander2008ToyotaHighlanderPricing2008ToyotaPriceshighlanderhighlander hybridhighlander hybrid prcinghighlander priceshighlander pricingHighlanderHybridHighlanderHybridPrcingHighlanderPricesHighlanderPricingnew highlandernew toyotanew toyota highlander pricingnew toyota pricingNewHighlanderNewToyotaNewToyotaHighlanderPricingNewToyotaPricingWed, 20 Jun 2007 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh, the irony: Anti-cell phone Senator crashes SUV while grabbing phone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/22/oh-the-irony-anti-cell-phone-senator-crashes-suv-while-grabbin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/22/oh-the-irony-anti-cell-phone-senator-crashes-suv-while-grabbin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/22/oh-the-irony-anti-cell-phone-senator-crashes-suv-while-grabbin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

History is filled with tales of politicians that wanted you to do as they say, but not as they do. California State Senator Carole Migden joined that dubious (and numerous) group yesterday when she rear-ended a Honda sedan while traveling down Highway 12 in Solano County, in her state-issued SUV. The Senator was allegedly reaching for her cell phone when she crashed into the driver in front of her. The irony of this story lies in the fact that Senator Migden voted for a bill that would have outlawed cellphone usage while driving.

The good news is that her free SUV is a 2007 Highlander Hybrid, so at least Miss Midgen gets to think she's fighting our country's dependence on foreign oil. The bad news is that she is not only driving around in an expensive vehicle at taxpayers expense, but we'd put our money on the state being slapped with a lawsuit due to the Senator's recklessness. Can somebody tell us why state Senators get free cars anyway?

[Source: Engadget]

Oh, the irony: Anti-cell phone Senator crashes SUV while grabbing phone originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2007 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cell phone accidentCellPhoneAccidenthighlanderState Senator Carole MigdenStateSenatorCaroleMigdensuvTue, 22 May 2007 10:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: 2008 Toyota Highlander revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-2008-toyota-highlander-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-2008-toyota-highlander-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-2008-toyota-highlander-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above image for our high-res photo gallery of live and official shots

Here in Chicago this morning Toyota unveiled the redesigned 2008 Highlander with the mantra Bigger! Wider! Safer! As you might imagine, the new crossover is larger in all dimensions, with a more powerful 3.5L V6 now cranking out 270 hp, 55hp more than the old one. It is still based on the Camry platform, although now it's the most recent edition, which is three inches longer and four inches wider. The ground clearance is also increased by and inch and the wheelbase gets three extra inches. As for the new styling, if you squint you can see a passing resemblance in the front end to the new 2007 Tundra.

The biggest emphasis though was on safety. All Highlanders now have side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats as well as a knee bag for the driver. All will also get ABS, traction control, brake assist and stability control. The front end of the vehicle has special crush zones built in so that the next time you run over a pedestrian they have a slightly better chance of survival. In addition, the two upper trim levels get a rear facing video camera with a dedicated display that's not shared with the navigation system. The Toyota press release is after the jump with more details, and information on the new Highlander Hybrid and it's EV-only mode is over on AutoBlogGreen.

PS: Check out the tailpipes on the Highlander. They're run through the bumper rather than underneath. Nevermind. The Highlander's not that cool. After a closer inspection of the CUV's rear on the show floor, the exhaust exits discretely below the bumper. Those holes out back are just for simple reflectors.

[Source: Toyota]

Gallery: 2008 Toyota Highlander

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show: 2008 Toyota Highlander revealed

Chicago Auto Show: 2008 Toyota Highlander revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008HighlanderredesignToyotaWed, 07 Feb 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will debut in Chicago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/19/toyota-highlander-and-highlander-hybrid-will-debut-in-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/19/toyota-highlander-and-highlander-hybrid-will-debut-in-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/19/toyota-highlander-and-highlander-hybrid-will-debut-in-chicago/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Toyota is starting to reveal details on its lineup for the Chicago Auto Show, which we've learned today will include the debut of the second-generation Highlander mid-size SUV and likewise the Highlander Hybrid. The big T hasn't given any other details on the vehicles, and neither have we seen spy shots of the new Highlander, so this one may actually turn out to be a surprise. The current Highlander is a big seller for Toyota, with 129,794 units being sold in 2006. That's down 5.2% from 2005's total of 137,409, but still a big number for a vehicle that potentially returns a meaty profit. We'll come back at you with all the info and live shots we get of these two vehicles from the floor of the 2007 Chicago Auto Show in early February.

[Source: Toyota]

Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will debut in Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagodebuthighlanderhighlander hybridHighlanderHybridhybridsecond gensecond generationSecondGenSecondGenerationFri, 19 Jan 2007 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota poised to build plant number eight in US]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/toyota-poised-to-build-plant-number-eight-in-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/toyota-poised-to-build-plant-number-eight-in-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/05/toyota-poised-to-build-plant-number-eight-in-us/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Toyota is in the process of scouting locations and performing feasibility studies on opening another plant in the U.S.

The addition of another manufacturing center within the States would make the total number of ToMoCo plants rise to eight, further shoring up production capacity in one of its most prosperous markets.

According to sources cited by the WSJ, Toyota has five locations in mind, all of which are in the southern U.S., and currently include Chattanooga, TN and Marion, AR. Back in mid-December, the SouthernAutoCorridor.com reported that sites in North Carolina and Southwest Virginia were being reconed as well.

There may be an announcement about Toyota's intentions later this month and according to the WSJ's sources, the plant will likely produce Highlander SUVs to the tune of about 200k per year, when the plant opens in 2009.

[Source: Drive.com.au, Wall Street Journal, SouthernAutoCorridor.com]

Toyota poised to build plant number eight in US originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jan 2007 07:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ararkansaschattanoogahighlandermanufacturingmarionnorth carolinaNorthCarolinaplantstennesseetntoyotavirginiawall street journalWallStreetJournalwsjFri, 05 Jan 2007 07:52:00 EST<![CDATA[False alarm: Toyota recalls 220,000 vehicles for lying check engine light]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/false-alarm-toyota-recalls-220-000-vehicles-for-lying-check-eng/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/false-alarm-toyota-recalls-220-000-vehicles-for-lying-check-eng/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/false-alarm-toyota-recalls-220-000-vehicles-for-lying-check-eng/#commentsFiled under: ,

In addition to the recalls announced by Volkswagen today, we should all tell you about a recall Toyota issued on Wednesday for check engine lights in some 60,700 Highlanders built from 2001 through 2003 and 159,100 RAV4s built in 2001 and 2002. The Malfunction Indicator, as it's called by sticklers, can light up when there's no underlying problem with the vehicle due to an issue with the software on the ECM. There have been 80 reported cases of this happening.

Of course, recalls don't exist in Toyota-land. Here they're called Special Service Campaigns, a description that must've been invented by a suit in marketing because it sounds like something fun to do, like a Jeep Jamboree or something. Nevertheless, a recall is what Toyota announced on Wednesday, even if it is for something as minor as a wonky check engine light.

Full press release can be found after the jump.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading False alarm: Toyota recalls 220,000 vehicles for lying check engine light

False alarm: Toyota recalls 220,000 vehicles for lying check engine light originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Dec 2006 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>highlanderrav4recallspecial service campaignSpecialServiceCampaigntoyotaFri, 08 Dec 2006 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota U.S. recall extravaganza]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/13/toyota-u-s-recall-extravaganza/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/13/toyota-u-s-recall-extravaganza/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/13/toyota-u-s-recall-extravaganza/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tundras, Scions, and now... Toyota Motor is recalling 367,600 U.S. Highlander and Lexus RX SUVs to fix clips that may allow a console access panel to fall onto the gas pedal.

The recall applies to 2004-2005 Highlanders and RX 330s and 2006 Highlander Hybrid and RX 400h models. Stronger clips will be installed to replace the original units.

Toyota says it has had seven reported complaints about the errant panel, and in two cases it interfered with the gas pedal, causing accidents. No injuries have resulted.

[Source: Bloomberg via Chicago Tribune] Thanks for the tip, Ryan!

Toyota U.S. recall extravaganza originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jul 2006 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>highlanderhighlander hybridlexuslexus 330lexus 400hnhtsarecallThu, 13 Jul 2006 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota announces two new Highlander models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/27/toyota-announces-two-new-highlander-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/27/toyota-announces-two-new-highlander-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/27/toyota-announces-two-new-highlander-models/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Last Friday Toyota quietly announced the availability of two new Highlander models. The first is the Highlander Sport available in either 2WD or 4WD trim with Toyota's 215-horsepower V6 as the standard powerplant. Sounds sporty already. Exterior enhancements include a color-keyed grille, some chrome trim bandied about and 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels, while the interior benefits from an eight-way power driver's seat, a leather wheel with audio controls and 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo. Curiously only the 4WD model will actually get a sport-tuned suspension. Prices start at $27,765 for the 2WD model and $29,235 for the 4WD version.

The other model is the decidedly non-exciting base V6 4WD two-row model that will go for $26,990 or about $850 less than a similar V6 4WD third-row model.

[Source: Toyota]

Toyota announces two new Highlander models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Mar 2006 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HighlanderSUVToyotaMon, 27 Mar 2006 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford's hybrid momentum showing signs of slowing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/07/fords-hybrid-momentum-showing-signs-of-slowing/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/07/fords-hybrid-momentum-showing-signs-of-slowing/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/07/fords-hybrid-momentum-showing-signs-of-slowing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

During its Super Bowl marketing blitz, Ford made a big deal of its new association with Kermit the Frog, who in the course of his advertising duties experienced a change of heart, proclaiming : "I guess it is easy being green."

But Jim Henson's trademark amphibian may have had it right the first time. High profile market introductions and Muppet pitchfrogs aside, the Blue Oval is struggling with its hybrid initiative, and recently doubled its incentives on its green-tinged SUVs to $1,000. Though it remains early in the year, at its present clip, Ford is only selling about half its hybrid capacity and waiting lists have dwindled to zero -- a marked change from foreign competitors at Toyota and Honda.

[Source: Dow Jones via Morningstar.com]

Ford's hybrid momentum showing signs of slowing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Mar 2006 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EscapeFordHighlanderHybridMarinerPriusToyotaTue, 07 Mar 2006 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrities to drive 'green' to Oscar red carpet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/05/celebrities-set-to-drive-to-osca/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/05/celebrities-set-to-drive-to-osca/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/05/celebrities-set-to-drive-to-osca/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The slow roll to the red carpet at tonight's Academy Awards is likely to be a quiet one for many of the night's biggest nominees. Oscar-intenders like Joaquin Phoenix and George Clooney are slated to arrive curbside in Toyota hybrids, as part of the company's fourth annual "Red Carpet, Green Cars" marketing shtick. Given the massive amounts of traffic (vehicular and human) 'round the event, expect a near-silent processional as the company's parade of hybrids will likely arrive in full-electric mode.

For their part, the Ford Motor Company is finally starting to get into the pre-Oscar eco-promotional sweepstakes, as Cathy Schulman (producer of Crash) will exit a Mercury Mariner Hybrid, and Jake Gyllenhaal of Brokeback Mountain fame is set to roll up with his homies in a biodiesel Ford Excursion.

Wither the General? GM will forgo all the green posturing, and instead bring the bling, with a fleet of 50 Cadillacs, largely 2007 Escalades.

No word on if Michael Moore will be attending, and if so, what his 'Whip du jour' will be. (Sorry 'bout the pic, we couldn't resist)

[Source: The Associated Press via The Washington Post]

Celebrities to drive 'green' to Oscar red carpet originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Academy AwardsAcademyAwardsCadillacEscaladeExcursionFordFord Motor CompayFordMotorCompayGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsHighlanderHybridMercury MarinerMercuryMarinerOscarOscarsPriusRed CarpetRedCarpetRx330RX330hToyotaSun, 05 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST