2021 Toyota Highlander Arrives In Europe For The First Time

Toyota is introducing the new Highlander to Western Europe, offering the seven-seat SUV in the region for the first time.

The new 2021 Highlander, which will sit above the RAV4 in the company’s model range, will be available solely with the company’s fourth-generation self-charging hybrid powertrain, which combines a 2.5-liter petrol engine with front and rear electric motors and a Nickel-Metal Hydride battery pack mounted under the second row of seats.

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The combined output of the 2021 Highlander’s hybrid powertrain is rated at 244 HP (248 PS), which allows for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h). Toyota claims that their new SUV is also capable of traveling at speeds of up to 77 mph (125 km/h) in electric mode.

The 2021 Highlander features a Drive Mode switch with Eco, Normal, Sport, and Trail modes. All four remain selectable even when the vehicle is operating in its also-switchable EV mode. Toyota has also updated the CVT transmission, claiming that the new gear ratio is optimized for maximum fuel efficiency and that thanks to the gear tooth surface polishing, it offers reduced resonance and operation noise, making it quieter than ever.

Speaking of quietness, the 2021 Highlander also features an acoustic windscreen and front glazing, as well as extended soundproofing on the wheel arches and loadspace, together with roof, dash, and floor silencers.

All trim levels of Europe’s 2021 Highlander feature Smart Entry, LED headlights, three-zone air-conditioning, seat heating, and wireless phone charging. The entry-level variant of Toyota’s three-row SUV also features a 7-inch digital display in the instrument cluster, an eight-inch infotainment system, and the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-assistance systems.

Go for one of the higher-spec models, and you’ll get things like projector LED headlights with jet washers, 20-inch alloy wheels, a power-operated tailgate, blue ambient lighting, and more. Options include a panoramic sunroof, a bigger 12.3-inch infotainment system with satellite navigation, and a 1,200-watt, 11-speaker premium audio system from JBL.