The forthcoming 2022 Toyota Highlander is the fourth-gen model. It will arrive with larger dimensions and more aggressive styling. The latest upgrades can be seen on the new RAV4 crossover. The 2022 Highlander won’t receive major upgrades and most of the model is a carryover. There is still room for new special editions as Toyota is introducing them every couple of months.
Overall, it is a nice-looking SUV and its interior is very modern. Toyota offers numerous trim levels and a lot of standard equipment. The performances are good but we don’t expect to see improvements in terms of power. New Highlander will hit the dealerships at some point in the second half of 2021.
2022 Highlander Redesign Not on the Cards
Visually, the 2022 Toyota Highlander will remain intact. We will probably see minor changes on the front fascia, but that’s about it. As we said, the new-gen model arrived with more aggressive bodywork and refreshed styling. For that reason, Highlander SUV remains, which means we are looking at the same bold design.
We like the powerful wheel arches and windswept taillights and headlights. It is a striking design that provides a sportier vibe. However, the XSE trim level provides an even sportier appearance. As we said, Toyota will probably release a new special edition, but this is not official yet.
Interior Refreshments
Inside, the new 2022 Toyota Highlander will get a couple of improvements. The current model already looks sophisticated and simple. However, the new Highlander will get a more modern cabin and more safety aids. For a start, Toyota delivers a large touchscreen that dominates the thin dashboard. The dash is finished in clean design and everything looks well-organized. The XSE trim will offer a two-tone interior color scheme and more upright materials. All trim levels are offering a lot of standard features.
The entry-level Highlander L trim comes with standard cloth upholstery and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Highlander is a three-row SUV with room for seven passengers. The interior room is ample and comfort is satisfying. While the 12.3-inch touchscreen is optional, an 8-inch unit remains standard. Toyota offers standard amenities such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and five USB ports.
Reliable V6 Engine Remains
As for the performances, the new 2022 Toyota Highlander will offer the same 3.5-liter engine. It is a proven V6 gasoline variant that can produce 295 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission comes as standard, along with the front-wheel-drive system.
On the other hand, the all-wheel-drive system is optional and Toyota also offers a torque-vectoring system in upper trim levels such as Limited or Platinum. There will no changes under the bonnet and Highlander won’t offer any sort of performance improvements.
2022 Toyota Highlander Price and Release Date
At this moment, no one knows the exact release date. However, the upcoming 2022 Toyota Highlander will surely hit the dealerships at some point in 2021. Most likely, this SUV will go on sale in the second half of the year.
As for the price, the base trim level will cost $36,000. Moreover, upper trims will start at over $40,000 and the range-topping model will cost $50,000. This three-row SUV will continue to rival models such as Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Chevy Traverse.