With its luxury appointments and on-road manners, the 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser might seem to have nothing in common with the rugged, no-nonsense Land Cruisers Toyota built for decades starting in the 1950s. But today's Land Cruiser is nearly unassailable once the pavement ends, maintaining the original version's go-anywhere reputation.
Pros Very capable off-road Comfortable ride and capable handling for a big SUV Commanding view of the road ahead
Cons Second- and third-row seats are clumsy and lack space Poor fuel economy even by large SUV standards Limited smartphone connectivity
The 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser’s go-anywhere capability makes it a cult favorite, but most buyers are better suited to rivals.
Pros The myth, the truck, the legend Will climb over anything Ample power Comfortable inrterior Soft ride
Cons Guzzles fuel Very expensive Guzzles fuel Not well-suited to suburbia Did we mention that it guzzles fuel?
The 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
