2022 Toyota Highlander

Practical, comfortable, and stylish, the 2022 Toyota Highlander is a family SUV with its eye on the mid-size prize. This three-row ute has plenty to offer and a variety of configurations to appeal to the widest possible audience. Although the base powertrain consists of a V-6 engine, the Highlander is one of only a few three-row SUVs offered with an optional hybrid setup; both powertrains can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. Toyota has gone the value-packed route with the Highlander, too, incorporating desirable infotainment and driver-assistance features as standard across the entire lineup. Opt for one of the Highlander's ritzier trims and enjoy a more luxurious environment that just about matches the offerings of a Lexus-branded SUV. What's missing is driver engagement. The Highlander's ride is smooth and its acceleration is decent, but overall it lacks the driving verve of rivals such as the Kia Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade, and the Mazda CX-9.
A new Hybrid Bronze Edition model joins the lineup and wears Cement or Wind Chill Pearl exterior paint with a set of cool 18-inch bronze-colored wheels. The cabin also receives some unique design elements in the form of geometric-patterned upholstery with bronze-colored detailing and illuminated bronze-colored doorsill protectors. Elsewhere, XLE and higher trims now come with a height-adjustable power-seat feature for the front passenger. The Highlander otherwise carries over to 2022 with no other changes.
In our view, the midrange XLE is the pick of the litter. It has heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a power sunroof, among other niceties. We'd also spring for the Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation package, which brings in-dash navigation and an upgraded stereo system. All-wheel drive will add $1600 to the bottom line. And opting for the hybrid powertrain over the standard V-6 will cost an extra $1400.