The Japanese manufacturer expands the range of high wheel models
by Corrado Canali
2 ‘of reading
Toyota raises the challenge in the SUV-crossover sector with the new Hghlander available for the first time also in Europe. Thus, the Japanese brand’s high-wheeled models become four in as many reference sectors: the latest arrival Yaris Cross is the first Toyita B-SUV which joins the C-HR among the compact ones and the Rav4 among other things available by the end of the year also in the plug-in hybrid version in the middle version, the top Highlander SUV will be added at the beginning of 2021.
It is a model that competes with Audi Q8, Bmw X7 and Mercedes GLS premium models.
The passenger compartment Seven seats and a space on board up to 1,909 liters. Based on the GA-K platform, the Highlander is 4,950 mm long and offers both intelligent all-wheel drive and a large space on board in addition to a towing capacity of up to 2 tons. On board, the interiors have been designed to offer practicality, but also the resistance and space expected from a 7-seater SUV, in a comfortable and quality environment.
The seven seats are combined with the 180 mm sliding of the second row of seats and a third row that can also accommodate two adults, as well as facilitating easier entry and exit. The basic boot is 658 liters, accessible thanks to a hatch operated by the foot motion sensor, it can be expanded thanks to the folding of the second and third row of seats, for a capacity of up to 1,909 liters. Available in black or graphite, the cockpit offers numerous storage compartments as well as several USB power outlets both in the first and in the second row.
Hi-tech equipment and Full Hybrid engine Available inside both the multimedia display in the 12.3 ”central console with satellite navigation, but also a head-up display, compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging the phone and the digital rear view mirror that displays a large image without the hindrance of both the headrests of the seats and the occupants. Under the hood of the new Hightlander is offered a fourth generation Full Hybrid Electric combined with a 2,500 cc Atkinson cycle petrol engine with front and rear electric motors to which is added a nickel-metal hydride battery placed under the second row. The system power is 244 hp with CO2 emissions of 146 g / km and consumption of 6.6 l / 100 km (WLTP cycle) or 117 g / km and 5.2l / 100 km (related NEDC).