Sep 14, 2014

The 2014 Toyota Highlander is a large crossover that is affordable, reliable and plenty of fun to drive. It feels like a regular car on the interior but has the bulky exterior and cargo space of a SUV. This hybridization makes the 2014 Highlander better than traditional SUVs and cars as it brings the best of both styles into one convenient package. The vehicle is sold in LE, LE Plus, XLE and Limited trims.

Power

The 2014 Toyota Highlander boasts a couple engine choices. There is a four cylinder engine with 2.7 liters and 185 horses. It is tied to a 6 speed automatic transmission with front wheel drive. There is also the option of a 6 cylinder engine with 270 horses, 248 pound feet of torque and a 6 speed automatic transmission with either front wheel drive or all wheel drive. The Hybrid verison of the vehicle comes with electronic continuously variable transmission, commonly referred to as eCVT. It has 280 total horses with its pair of motors. There is standard electric power steering, 18 inch wheels and the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds with the 6 cylinder engine.

Utility and Comfort

This year’s Highlander is 191 inches long with a 109 inch wheelbase, making it 3 inches larger than the previous model. It has ample interior space for cargo like sports equipment, luggage and groceries. It has an impressive seating capacity, allowing up to 8 people to ride in vehicle with considerable room remaining to stretch out and relax in comfort. The second row has the option of a split bench seat (that can recline) for three people or a set of two captain’s chairs. The second row bench seating slides to offer access to the third row seat, allowing over 4 inches of additional width for extra comfort.

2014 Toyota Highlander Interior

Safeguards

The Highlander has plenty of safety equipment. There is hill start assist, a standard rearview camera, a lane departure warning system, blind spot monitors, parking sensors, a forward collision warning system, adaptive cruise control and a total of 8 airbags. The IIHS has awarded the vehicle with its “Top Safety Pick” designation and the federal government gave it an overall score of 5 stars out of a possible 5. This year’s version has extra large rear quarter windows and smartly placed pillars to optimize visibility.

High Tech Goodies

The 2014 Toyota Highlander’s interior amenities include heated and ventilated front seats, a JBL stereo, a navigation system, a touchscreen, a rear seat DVD entertainment center along with video game inputs, automatic high beam headlights and heated captain’s chairs in the second row.

Team Toyota

Team Toyota is here to serve the automotive needs of all Louisiana drivers, especially those near New Orleans and Lafayette. Team Toyota is located in Baton Rouge, Louisisana at 1788 O’Neal Lane. Drivers near New Orleans, Lafayette and Baton Rouge who are interested in the Toyota Highlander and other Toyota vehicles can check out Team Toyota’s selection from 8 to 9 on weekdays and from 8:30 to 8 on Saturdays. Car seekers near New Orleans can learn more about Team Toyota’s vehicle selection and departments by calling 888-804-3330 or by visiting https://www.team-toyota.com/index.htm. #JoinTeamToyota