Completely new in 2008, the 2009 Toyota Highlander is just a little bigger and better still. Its strengths have been honed and enhanced to make the 2009 Highlander the best ever. Its new, more powerful engine delivers the same fuel economy as did it predecessor (17/23 city/highway). With MSRPs ranging between $27,600 and $34,520, this 7-passenger crossover SUV comes in 3 different trims: the Base, Sport and Limited. All are four-door vehicles and all are available in your choice of front wheel or all wheel drive.

The 2009 Highlander has earned 5 stars for frontal crash tests form the NHTSA - that's always nice for any vehicle to brag about, especially family-based transportation units. An impressive array of standard safety features comes along with your purchase including multiple airbags throughout (even in all 3 seating rows), ABS and driveline electronic traction control, occupancy sensors, content theft deterrent alarms, child safety locks, tire pressure monitors and much more. Toyota wants you and your family to be as safe as is possible.

Increased overall dimensions create increased cargo space and interior roominess. The overall dimensions of the 2009 Highlander by Toyota are 188.4 x 75.2 x 68.1 inches, length, width and height respective. Ground clearance stands at 8.1 inches and the gross vehicle weight is 5800 pounds. The base engine is a 3.5L 270hp V6 that puts out 248 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm. That is plenty of power to handle almost any humanly-encountered traveling scenario with optimal confidence.

Utility was definitely on the minds of the design team for the Toyota Highlander this year. The 2nd seating row slides back and forth to maximize usable space and the 3rd row seating is simplistically removable to create a fun environment for young travelers and even a snoozing spot for adults. Maximum cargo capacity is measured at 95.4 cubic feet and the turning radius is 19.4 feet.

Being a crossover SUV, the 2009 Highlander has more in common with a car than a truck. That means that luxury is definitely included. It is based on the same platform as the Toyota Camry - a mid-sized sedan. The cabin is quiet and the ride is super-smooth. It's really a fun place for family traveling - everyone feels that they have their own space and there are plenty of amenities for all to enjoy.

Not to be confused with an off-roader like the Toyota FJ Cruiser, the Highlander for 2009 is designed more to tackle winter's slippery conditions than to climb steep muddy hills and slimy rocks. The styling is more on the upscale, conservative side as the target market is families that desire to have safe and capable transportation. Overall, the 2009 Toyota Highlander delivers just what is supposed to: dependability, safety, style and good value.