I took the 2008 Sport w/ leather for a test drive today. I really wanted to love the new HL but I have mixed feelings now. I have a 2004 HL Limited now and I have to say that it is a great car. I would prefer a little more cargo space so that's why I took a look at the 2008. The Sport steering felt fine to me. The ride was smooth and quiet. I took the HL on the interstate and at 65mph I didn't notice a problem with body roll. My old Expedition felt unstable at 65mph even on a perfectly straight interstate. It had a subtle rocking feel that really bothered me. I always insist that I test drive both highway and around town after having a vehicle with terrible body roll.
Back to the '08 Highlander... I really missed the arm rests. I don't like that big storage compartment sticking into my right arm. There's no place for my pocketbook if someone is riding in the front passenger seat. My '04 HL is flatter in the center so I can put my pocketbook in the center. Guys won't care about that but for me it is a big deal. I like to have quick access to my pocketbook. The head rests were extremely uncomfortable. So uncomfortable that it's a deal breaker for me. The front dash seems to curve up in the center...or seems higher than my '04. The center seat in the 2nd row is so uncomfortable that I think only 10 or 15 minutes would be tolerable. I much prefer my 40/60 split bench seat. I also think the new Highlander should have body side molding included.
I liked the backup camera a lot. It was really helpful for seeing how much more space I had left as I was backing into a parking space. I loved having 4 cup holders in the front. The cargo space is excellent with the 3rd row seat down.
My '04 HL Limited is more fun to drive. I'm keeping it for now.
I recently bought a base 08 HL. I wanted one without the moon roof, 6cd player, leather seats or third row but with power driver's seat. The dealer found one that matched but when it came in,no power seat.I talked them into side molding and 3 oil changes in place of the seat at the original price.I think it improves the looks quite a bit.The side panels are large and plain without something to break up all that metal.There was a LTD on the showroom floor with the running boards but I wasn't impressed, the HL isn't that high and it looked like they wouldn't be that helpful. My color is also "Sandy Beach Metallic".
Wow, I know we are months away, but does anybody know or take a guess at what will be new on the '09 Highlander? and, with the '09 Highlander coming out in March of '08, will that bring the price of the '08 Highlander significantly or maybe a little?
This is one of the reasons why I wish we had a quote function. The post you saw was referring to the 2009 Honda Pilot, not the Highlander. The 2009 Pilot will be all new and launched in the spring of 2008.
I'd expect the '08 Highlander to run pretty much through fall 2008.
The new '08 Highlander has grown up significantly over the previous model, too much say some, yet it loses marks in the comparo primarily because it's too small. Go figure.
The Highlander was one of the first car-based crossovers. And the new one is a marked improvement over the impressive original. If blowing the neighbor’s doors off is your priority, the Highlander is the best pick. The 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 is incredibly powerful and smooth. It was quickest by a wide margin and our favorite powerplant in the test. It’s rare that the quickest vehicle returns the best mileage. But the Toyota did just that. (And the Highlander is the only one here that offers a hybrid drivetrain option.) The zippy power-train, light steering and diminutive size made it our favorite for squirting through traffic and fitting in those “compact” parking spots. It was a fun ride through the canyons, too. Inside, the nav system was praised by all testers, as were the big round knobs for the radio and climate control. Some, however, found the materials less luxurious than before. Toyota’s remodel of the Highlander includes some very handy features. There are pull levers near the tailgate that drop the second-row seats flat — perfect for impromptu trips to Costco. The second row on our tester also had the clever Center-Stow console, which allows the seat to become a three-person bench or two buckets. There’s also an extra rearview mirror for keeping an eye on back-seat brawls. But hauling lots of people is not this vehicle’s forte. The third-row seats do not split and are tight for adults. Worse, the cargo area is one of the smallest in this group. The good news? The Highlander is a class leader — among five-passenger SUVs. But in this seven- and eight-passenger club, the Toyota is a half size too small.
For an idea of how thorough Popular Mechanics does their research, they state that the Pilot ties the Saturn for highest two rating at 4500lbs. WRONG. The Highlander tows 5000 if equipped with the tow package. Also, teh 4500 rating for the Pilot is only for boat trailers with low tongue weight. The rating is 3500 otherwise.
My wife and are expecting our second child in February and are currently look at both '08 Pilot & '08 HL. My in-laws have an '04 Pilot and they have let us use it several times for long trips. I have to say that it was as smooth as silk on the highway. So for me I am sold on the Pilot. We are planning to test drove an '08 Pilot EX-L. It most likely will drive the same since it hasn't changed much.
True, the Pilot is a little boring compared to the new HL. We will be test driving the new HL this weekend. Since it does not come standard with the body side moldings, it does look like something is missing. I'll let you know how the ride goes.
For us and what might be the deciding factor is that we can get two car seats in the HL and still have access to the 3rd row when the middle seat is stowed.
We'll see. We have a 95 Accord EX with 225,000 miles on it so in the end we might end up with the Pilot. Decisions, Decisions :-) :confuse: One thing I can say for sure thank God we not looking at minivan!!!!
You're right on the 07. We have found a few good deals - say $28K EXL 4WD; however, colors were awful, so we didn't buy. We're not paying more for the 08s same old design that has just started to triggle in. Considering the 08 is not redesigned yet, the pilot is not a deal at all for it will depreciate faster. 08 HL even at $36K -Limited 2WD w/Navigation & other options will be a better deal than the new pilot at say $34K w/all the bells and whistles. Something to think about. It certainly looks a lot shaper.
The good news? The Highlander is a class leader — among five-passenger SUVs.
This actually appeals to me. I don't need to carry 6 or 7 (or even 5) people on a regular basis. If I did, I would get a minivan.
I do want to be able to carry that 6th (or 7th) person if I had to, and that's why the new model appeals to me (though it didn't for PM). I would anticipate keeping the third row folded most of the time.
One minor detail that I like about the Highlander: the center position's seat belt is integrated into the seat. In other words, the shoulder belt doesn't hang from the ceiling like it does with others. I think it looks much cleaner this way.
One minor detail that I like about the Highlander: the center position's seat belt is integrated into the seat. In other words, the shoulder belt doesn't hang from the ceiling like it does with others. I think it looks much cleaner this way. Is this true? I didn't buckle up when I was in the middle because it was pretty uncomfortable. But, I'd have a hard time believing you could properly anchor a seatbelt in the seat of a removable seat. But I'm no auto engineer ...
As for hanging from the ceiling, when not in use, most of the belts retract all the way into the ceiling, and it's pretty easy.
I'm want to buy the '08 Highlandr Limited. Should I buy it with DVD Rear Entertainment or should I get it without it and buy the DVD player separately? what do you guys suggest? Thanks.
I was looking inside of a locked '08 HL Limited on the dealer lot and it would appear that the driver's window switch is still the only one that lights up. Is this true? If so, I can't believe that vehicles at almost half the price light all of the switches on all of the doors. I think Toyota might be getting a bit to cocky with their great success. They better be careful. There are a lot of very good choices out there now.
Also, in standing next to the HL, I got this feeling like I was standing next to a van. There is this huge expanse of plain flat sheet metal that I didn't care for. I know most of the car mags dog the previous generation styling but to me it is more stylish in some ways, JMHO.
Its your call. For me, I would buy the Rear entertainment system. I currently have 2003 HL, and I have a 11 inch separate DVD player that hangs off the passenger headrest. It takes 10 minutes to set it up, and whenever you park, you need to hide it so someone doesn't smash and grab it.
The wireless sound feature sucks, too much static. It is good to take inside a hotel room to play movies.
I would prefer a built in DVD player because 1) the sound and controls can be operated by the driver 2) the system can be running in seconds, rather than 15 minutes 3) the rear seats have audio and video auxiliary inputs. 4) it looks better than hanging something off the head rest 5) Less chance of a smash and grab when parked.
Does anyone have an opinion or direct experience with the cloth interior color "Ash"? Wondering how well it will wear since it seems so light. Also the exterior color "Blue Streak", I have seen this and like it. It is a little bold, just looking for opinions. Finally, I have yet to hear the standard Sport stereo/6 disk changer. I have a 2002 RAV4 and the stock stereo was horrible. Any opinions or experience with this?
Come on now. Are lighted window switches that big a deal? I have a few cars with power windows and not once have I had to look at the switches to see which one is for my window. It has nothing to do with cockiness. More to do with keeping costs down so that the vehicles are more affordable to everybody. Where else can you get a V6 2WD with all the power conveniences, alloys, cd, keyless, etc, for around $27,900.00 MSRP? I think some of the posters here make a big deal out the little things. If you don't like the vehicle don't buy it. Plain and simple. Mackabee Mackabee
I verified today, the LTD Highlander only has illuminated the drivers window switch, all others are not. So its not a big deal, as I never let anyone open the windows in the vehicle (use climate control). Even if they did need to open a window, it would be most likely in the day time. Aty night its generally colder and windows usual are up.
That comparo is not very useful IMHO. Looks like this guy's main concern was the third row seat. In my experience most customers that have the third row seat seldom use it. Mackabee
I know someone, somewhere must use them, but looking at typical, 1 person per car/suv/truck traffic, I can't imagine they get used much, probably many not at all. (excluding all little league coaches and scout leaders, that is)
I think the third row seat is the demise of the Highlander concept as it was originally, a mid sized crossover. The 08 is an attempt to increase the third seat but has made the HL bloat ware. It is now a poor excuse for a minivan. I thought manufacturer's learned their lesson years ago with this up sizing especially with the cost of gasoline these days. Toyota has succumbed to the Pilot which I have no interest in.
Toyota gave customers what they wanted. When the original Highlander came out, lots of customers asked if they could get a third row seat. I would look at them dumbfounded as the size of the vehicle did not lend itself to a third row. When Toyota started building them with the third row, it was that tiny seat that I wouldn't put my grandson in. At least with the new generation Highlander you have a choice to delete the third seat. Mackabee
I've never turned to Pop Mech for my automotive information.
Points with who?
I've owned a RX300, a '03 HL and now a force fed '07 HL a w/3 rd row seat. I had no option. I now have a useless appendage and lost valuable storage and have the spare hanging on the outside. I've owned my last HL.
I think some of the posters here make a big deal out the little things. If you don't like the vehicle don't buy it.
It's often the "little things" that make a car go from merely "good" to "great." The problem auto makers face is that something seemingly minor to one person can be a huge irritant to another.
Personally, I could care less about illuminated window switches. If you have to look at the door while you're driving to see where the window switches are, then the designer didn't do a good job on locating those switches. However, I could see something I'm indifferent about could be an issue for someone else.
I recently purchased 08 HL with 3 row seating. Don't know about outgoing HL model but 3rd is quite usefull on 08. It is possible even to seat adults on 3rd row sacrifising a little comfort on second row. Second row seats are adjustable and can be moved forward to provide more space to the 3rd row leg room. I'd like to have 3rd row seats split 50/50 or 60/40 though. While lighted windows switches is a nice touch it is not a deal breaker. I honestly don't even remember time when I looked at the switches for opening the window. I always find window switches by touch.
I think people need to get a grip. The new Highlander gets the same mpg as the old one yet has more power. It handles better than the old one yet has more space inside. If you don't want the 3rd row, delete it and save some money. I don't see the problem.
I never understood 3rd row seating. When I drive around town of on the freeway I see mainly 1 person per car (50%) 2 people (25%) 3 -5 people (20%) Never seen a the need for a 3rd row? Who actually uses them - it's only for small kids anyway.
Maybe 1% of the time you may need a 3rd row seat, but most situations can be addressed with sharing the "excess" passenger load with a friend.
They say the average size of a family in the US has DECREASED over the last 25 years, yet the size of houses have INCREASED, as well as peoples waist lines.
I'm sorry but that is one of the most inane posts I have ever read. You have not seen people use a third row, so therefore there is no need for one. How many times have you seen an airbag deployed? I'm quite sure that the marketing people at Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, GM and Ford, have access to quite a bit more real information than you. I do not think they would incur the added expense of having a third row of seats if there were not a substantial market to support it.
Also, what in the world do you mean when you say share the "excess" passenger load with a friend? Do you take friends on vacation with you? Do you have friends who will pick up your kids from daycare for you? If so, you are a truly lucky person-your friends are getting the shaft-but you are lucky.
Seriously, if you have no need for a third row, then don't buy a car with one. On the other hand, it is the height of hubris to tell others what they do and do not need. For example, if I were to tell you that you needed to think before posting, that would be inappropriate. Do you see what I mean?
I'm sorry but that is one of the most inane posts I have ever read.
And your post, docrw, is one of the rudest I've seen here. :confuse:
I think it's a perfectly reasonable opinion that a lot of people *don't* really need the third row. I'm one of them.
Minus the rudeness, I agree with your post. I still want a third row for those times when I have to carry more than 5 people. Yes, one alternative is to have multiple drivers. But sometimes that's not feasible. Another alternative is to make multiple trips. That's not convenient.
Still, I'm glad Toyota kept the Highlander a little smaller than the GM CUVs. I don't need or want it to be the roomiest 7-seater.
Bottom line: we each need to find the vehicle that fits our needs the best. It doesn't matter what Popular Mechanics, Edmunds, or anyone else here thinks is "the best." Fortunately, there are many choices out there. For my needs, the size and capabilities of the Highlander (and its third row) are almost perfect.
There is merit to both arguments but disagreeing with someone does not make for inanity. We can discuss the merits of a case without resorting to inflammatory characterizations.
Lets not forget that 3rd row in CUV is merely a convinience option. It is there when you need it. We are talking about a vehicle with length that smaller that Camry. If I'd need to move 7 people on every day base then I'd buy a minivan or full size van. I plan to use 3rd row few times a year when need arises. Most of the time 3rd row will be folded down. It is not like Toyota forces you to have 3 rows in the HL. If you feel that you never ever have more then 5 people in your HL then delete it and save $500-600.
I have always respected toyotas for their quality, but that's about all that they have had going for them. I passed on the new camry's because they just had no personality and their fenders and flares make them look bloated and cheap. The outgiong generation of highlanders had a similar appeal...their exteriors were extremely plain and looked cheaper than what they're actually worth...the interiors were just plain dull.
With that said, after seeing the new highlanders on the website and now in person, I think there finally might be a toyota worth considering for me. My wife is in the preliminary stages of looking for a small-midsized SUV and I thought we had it narrowed down to the Mazda CX-7 or an Acura RDX. But, the style and features on the new highlander really have me moving that way up on the list. It's a little bigger than what I was initially looking for, but still within reason. Congrats to Toyota for finally stepping up and making a car that makes their price tags worth the money.
If anyone has an '08 Highlander, please let me know your impressions so far.
I'm debating between the Sport and the LTD 2008 Highlander. The Sport offers black leather upholstery and does not have the imitation wood that I don't care for. Does anyone have any experience driving both. I read somewhere that the Sport handles better but the reviews don't seem to deal with this. Any help out there?
Well, that's you're opinion. I am entitled to mine, as are you. My point was, (as others were stating) putting a 3rd row i a Highlander is rediculous. It's too small, only big enough for a midget, and the third row takes all the luggage space.
3rd row should be an option.
I want the new Highlander, but would prefer not to have a 3rd row seat that I will never use.
As for marketing people at the car manufacturers making decisions, sometimes they follow the crowd and slap in a 3rd row because everyone else is doing it (Lemmings) At least Honda and their CRV resisted the trend to bloat and add a V6.
Does the 08 really handle better than the old one? I may ride smoother, but for handing, it leans in the corners and is floaty on the freeway. There is no road feel
Drive them both then decide. I haven't really noticed any difference between both. Might be because of the electric power steering, it now feels vague. Mackabee
I don't agree with your comment "putting a 3rd row i a Highlander is rediculous. It's too small, only big enough for a midget"
Since I got the car, my 10 year old son refuses to ride in any other row besides 3rd. I guess he's quite comfortable there. 3rd row was designed for kids and accomodates them well on the new HL.
I agree with "third row takes all the luggage space.". Toyota should have 50/50 split on a 3rd row.
Base and Sport HL available with either 2 or 3 rows. 2 row HL has SD option that removes $592 from invoice price. When I was purchasing my 2008 base HL dealer had both 3 and 2 rows HLs in stock. I went ahead with 3 rows vehicle. According to Edmunds limited doesn't have SD option thus comes with 3 rows only. Since HL clearly can be had with either 2 or 3 rows we can lay 3rd row issue to rest.
Comments
The ride of the sport is supposed to be firmer?
I am not worried about features, just how the ride compares?
thanks
Back to the '08 Highlander... I really missed the arm rests. I don't like that big storage compartment sticking into my right arm. There's no place for my pocketbook if someone is riding in the front passenger seat. My '04 HL is flatter in the center so I can put my pocketbook in the center. Guys won't care about that but for me it is a big deal. I like to have quick access to my pocketbook. The head rests were extremely uncomfortable. So uncomfortable that it's a deal breaker for me. The front dash seems to curve up in the center...or seems higher than my '04. The center seat in the 2nd row is so uncomfortable that I think only 10 or 15 minutes would be tolerable. I much prefer my 40/60 split bench seat. I also think the new Highlander should have body side molding included.
I liked the backup camera a lot. It was really helpful for seeing how much more space I had left as I was backing into a parking space. I loved having 4 cup holders in the front. The cargo space is excellent with the 3rd row seat down.
My '04 HL Limited is more fun to drive. I'm keeping it for now.
I'd expect the '08 Highlander to run pretty much through fall 2008.
Link:PopMech Crossover Comparo
The Highlander was one of the first car-based crossovers. And the new one is a marked improvement over the impressive original. If blowing the neighbor’s doors off is your priority, the Highlander is the best pick. The 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 is incredibly powerful and smooth. It was quickest by a wide margin and our favorite powerplant in the test. It’s rare that the quickest vehicle returns the best mileage. But the Toyota did just that. (And the Highlander is the only one here that offers a hybrid drivetrain option.) The zippy power-train, light steering and diminutive size made it our favorite for squirting through traffic and fitting in those “compact” parking spots. It was a fun ride through the canyons, too. Inside, the nav system was praised by all testers, as were the big round knobs for the radio and climate control. Some, however, found the materials less luxurious than before. Toyota’s remodel of the Highlander includes some very handy features. There are pull levers near the tailgate that drop the second-row seats flat — perfect for impromptu trips to Costco. The second row on our tester also had the clever Center-Stow console, which allows the seat to become a three-person bench or two buckets. There’s also an extra rearview mirror for keeping an eye on back-seat brawls. But hauling lots of people is not this vehicle’s forte. The third-row seats do not split and are tight for adults. Worse, the cargo area is one of the smallest in this group. The good news? The Highlander is a class leader — among five-passenger SUVs. But in this seven- and eight-passenger club, the Toyota is a half size too small.
True, the Pilot is a little boring compared to the new HL. We will be test driving the new HL this weekend. Since it does not come standard with the body side moldings, it does look like something is missing. I'll let you know how the ride goes.
For us and what might be the deciding factor is that we can get two car seats in the HL and still have access to the 3rd row when the middle seat is stowed.
We'll see. We have a 95 Accord EX with 225,000 miles on it so in the end we might end up with the Pilot. Decisions, Decisions :-) :confuse: One thing I can say for sure thank God we not looking at minivan!!!!
This actually appeals to me. I don't need to carry 6 or 7 (or even 5) people on a regular basis. If I did, I would get a minivan.
I do want to be able to carry that 6th (or 7th) person if I had to, and that's why the new model appeals to me (though it didn't for PM). I would anticipate keeping the third row folded most of the time.
One minor detail that I like about the Highlander: the center position's seat belt is integrated into the seat. In other words, the shoulder belt doesn't hang from the ceiling like it does with others. I think it looks much cleaner this way.
Is this true? I didn't buckle up when I was in the middle because it was pretty uncomfortable. But, I'd have a hard time believing you could properly anchor a seatbelt in the seat of a removable seat. But I'm no auto engineer ...
As for hanging from the ceiling, when not in use, most of the belts retract all the way into the ceiling, and it's pretty easy.
Mackabee
Also, in standing next to the HL, I got this feeling like I was standing next to a van. There is this huge expanse of plain flat sheet metal that I didn't care for. I know most of the car mags dog the previous generation styling but to me it is more stylish in some ways, JMHO.
For me, I would buy the Rear entertainment system.
I currently have 2003 HL, and I have a 11 inch separate DVD player that hangs off the passenger headrest. It takes 10 minutes to set it up, and whenever you park, you need to hide it so someone doesn't smash and grab it.
The wireless sound feature sucks, too much static. It is good to take inside a hotel room to play movies.
I would prefer a built in DVD player because
1) the sound and controls can be operated by the driver
2) the system can be running in seconds, rather than 15 minutes
3) the rear seats have audio and video auxiliary inputs.
4) it looks better than hanging something off the head rest
5) Less chance of a smash and grab when parked.
Thanks.
It has nothing to do with cockiness. More to do with keeping costs down so that the vehicles are more affordable to everybody. Where else can you get a V6 2WD with all the power conveniences, alloys, cd, keyless, etc, for around $27,900.00 MSRP? I think some of the posters here make a big deal out the little things. If you don't like the vehicle don't buy it. Plain and simple.
Mackabee
Mackabee
So its not a big deal, as I never let anyone open the windows in the vehicle (use climate control).
Even if they did need to open a window, it would be most likely in the day time. Aty night its generally colder and windows usual are up.
Mackabee
Mackabee
Mackabee
The 08 is an attempt to increase the third seat but has made the HL bloat ware. It is now a poor excuse for a minivan. I thought manufacturer's learned their lesson years ago with this up sizing especially with the cost of gasoline these days. Toyota has succumbed to the Pilot which I have no interest in.
The third row seat ruined the perfect vehicle.
End of rant.
Mackabee
And yet in the PopMech comparo the Highlander lost signgicant points for being too small? :surprise:
Points with who?
I've owned a RX300, a '03 HL and now a force fed '07 HL a w/3 rd row seat. I had no option. I now have a useless appendage and lost valuable storage and have the spare hanging on the outside. I've owned my last HL.
It's often the "little things" that make a car go from merely "good" to "great." The problem auto makers face is that something seemingly minor to one person can be a huge irritant to another.
Personally, I could care less about illuminated window switches. If you have to look at the door while you're driving to see where the window switches are, then the designer didn't do a good job on locating those switches. However, I could see something I'm indifferent about could be an issue for someone else.
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/
When I drive around town of on the freeway I see mainly 1 person per car (50%) 2 people (25%) 3 -5 people (20%)
Never seen a the need for a 3rd row?
Who actually uses them - it's only for small kids anyway.
Maybe 1% of the time you may need a 3rd row seat, but most situations can be addressed with sharing the "excess" passenger load with a friend.
They say the average size of a family in the US has DECREASED over the last 25 years, yet the size of houses have INCREASED, as well as peoples waist lines.
Also, what in the world do you mean when you say share the "excess" passenger load with a friend? Do you take friends on vacation with you? Do you have friends who will pick up your kids from daycare for you? If so, you are a truly lucky person-your friends are getting the shaft-but you are lucky.
Seriously, if you have no need for a third row, then don't buy a car with one. On the other hand, it is the height of hubris to tell others what they do and do not need. For example, if I were to tell you that you needed to think before posting, that would be inappropriate. Do you see what I mean?
And your post, docrw, is one of the rudest I've seen here. :confuse:
I think it's a perfectly reasonable opinion that a lot of people *don't* really need the third row. I'm one of them.
Minus the rudeness, I agree with your post. I still want a third row for those times when I have to carry more than 5 people. Yes, one alternative is to have multiple drivers. But sometimes that's not feasible. Another alternative is to make multiple trips. That's not convenient.
Still, I'm glad Toyota kept the Highlander a little smaller than the GM CUVs. I don't need or want it to be the roomiest 7-seater.
Bottom line: we each need to find the vehicle that fits our needs the best. It doesn't matter what Popular Mechanics, Edmunds, or anyone else here thinks is "the best." Fortunately, there are many choices out there. For my needs, the size and capabilities of the Highlander (and its third row) are almost perfect.
There is merit to both arguments but disagreeing with someone does not make for inanity. We can discuss the merits of a case without resorting to inflammatory characterizations.
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
With that said, after seeing the new highlanders on the website and now in person, I think there finally might be a toyota worth considering for me. My wife is in the preliminary stages of looking for a small-midsized SUV and I thought we had it narrowed down to the Mazda CX-7 or an Acura RDX. But, the style and features on the new highlander really have me moving that way up on the list. It's a little bigger than what I was initially looking for, but still within reason. Congrats to Toyota for finally stepping up and making a car that makes their price tags worth the money.
If anyone has an '08 Highlander, please let me know your impressions so far.
They've always made a car that's worth the price tag. It's some people see the value and others don't.
Mackabee
My point was, (as others were stating) putting a 3rd row i a Highlander is rediculous. It's too small, only big enough for a midget, and the third row takes all the luggage space.
3rd row should be an option.
I want the new Highlander, but would prefer not to have a 3rd row seat that I will never use.
As for marketing people at the car manufacturers making decisions, sometimes they follow the crowd and slap in a 3rd row because everyone else is doing it (Lemmings)
At least Honda and their CRV resisted the trend to bloat and add a V6.
I may ride smoother, but for handing, it leans in the corners and is floaty on the freeway. There is no road feel
Mackabee
Mackabee
I don't agree with your comment "putting a 3rd row i a Highlander is rediculous. It's too small, only big enough for a midget"
Since I got the car, my 10 year old son refuses to ride in any other row besides 3rd. I guess he's quite comfortable there. 3rd row was designed for kids and accomodates them well on the new HL.
I agree with "third row takes all the luggage space.". Toyota should have 50/50 split on a 3rd row.
Base and Sport HL available with either 2 or 3 rows. 2 row HL has SD option that removes $592 from invoice price. When I was purchasing my 2008 base HL dealer had both 3 and 2 rows HLs in stock. I went ahead with 3 rows vehicle. According to Edmunds limited doesn't have SD option thus comes with 3 rows only. Since HL clearly can be had with either 2 or 3 rows we can lay 3rd row issue to rest.