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2002 HIGHLANDERThe Highlander was introduced last year and has proven itself to be quite a success. This is actually the second SUV in the mid-size sport...
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The Highlander was introduced last year and has proven itself to be quite a success. This is actually the second SUV in the mid-size sport utility vehicle class, providing you with a wide range of diversity and choice so that you can select the vehicle that suits your requirements the best. The Highlander tends to the needs of those with an eye towards image and versatility.
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27 Reviews from Shopping.com
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How to save big at the lot AND the pump!!!
| Author's Rating: |
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Pros: 2WD and 4Cylinder gives plenty of power at a tremendous savings.
Cons: Wish I'd bought one sooner
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The Bottom Line:
If you want an SUV at a family car price and economy, consider dropping the 4WD and V6. You won't regret it!
My wife fell in love with the Toyota Highlander the first time she saw one. I was doubtful about the poor mileage and high maintenance costs of a 4WD V6 SUV. Since my wife is a teacher and her school is very close to our home, I felt 4WD was a bit of overkill even though we live in Salt Lake City and we have our share of snow.
We visited several dealerships in the area until we found one who would take the time to listen to us. We found out that the Highlander is available with a 4 cylinder engine and in 2 wheel drive (front wheel drive). I was concerned about the power of a 4 cylinder engine in a fairly large vehicle, so we talked the salesman into letting us take a 2WD 4 Cylinder no-frills version for a test drive from Salt Lake to Park City.
The drive covers about 30 miles each way and involves driving at freeway speeds up a 7% grade at times. The vehicle handled the drive with ease. There was plenty of power from the 4 to pass semi-trailers and to maintain at least the posted speed limit of 65mph with no problem even on the steepest sections of the freeway.
The return trip was equally pleasing thanks to the ABS braking and great handling. We had them order one for us with the options we wanted. It turns out that many 2WD 4Cyl. models are sold in Arizona and California so our dealer was able to make a trade with an out of state dealer for one with all the bells and whistles we wanted.
The best part is that by going with 2WD and a 4 banger, we saved about $10,000.00 over a similarly equipped 4WD V6. Oh, and we average 23-25mpg in city driving. With the standard 20 Gallon tank, that's a long way between fill-ups. Long freeway trips easily top 30mpg. One more thing - because it's 2WD, our insurance company charges the "station wagon" rate which is considerably lower than the SUV rate.
We've had the car just over 2 years now and we have been pleased to get all the SUV features at a much lower cost. This could be the answer to the gas-guzzling SUV stereotype!!
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