See all Motoring NewsToyota Ireland is launching its new 7-seater hybrid SUV in Ireland, the Highlander. The Highlander comes with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) and has a 2-tonne towing capacity. This gives customers a competitive new option of a larger car with lower emissions and excellent fuel efficiency.
With its striking styling and 20-inch alloy wheels, the Highlander combines the looks of an urban SUV with the rugged finish of an off-road vehicle. The Highlander’s quiet, refined ride is enhanced by a luxurious cabin that boasts crafted trims, soft-touch materials and suite of equipment and connectivity as standard.
Interior highlights include ventilated front seats, 11-speaker JBL audio system and an eight-inch touchscreen system featuring navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. To help prevent or mitigate collisions, Highlander features the latest Toyota Safety Sense package along with a head-up display and digital rear-view mirror depending on the specification.
The seven seat Highlander provides spacious third-row accommodation and easy access for two adults. Accessed by a kick-sensor operated power tailgate the 631-litre boot space (with third row folded down) and with additional underfloor storage may be dramatically expanded by the fully flat folding of both the third and second row seating, bringing the load capacity up to 838 litres.
The Highlander features Toyota’s fourth-generation Hybrid powertrain. Producing 244 DIN hp from its 2.5-litre hybrid engine, it offers an ideal mixture of power and efficiency, with CO2 emissions and fuel consumption from just 149 g/km and 6.6 l/100km respectively.
The use of an acoustic windscreen and front glazing, and the adoption of roof, dash and floor silencers, and wheel arch and load space liners lends the Highlander with a quiet cabin environment. The Highlander's GA-K platform is complemented by a lightweight and high-rigidity bodyshell and with a low centre of gravity, providing the new SUV with nimble handling and comfortable motorway cruising characteristics.
Commenting on the arrival of the all-new Highlander, Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland said: “The arrival of the Highlander 7-seater hybrid expands our range line-up and, along with the RAV4 and Toyota C-HR, cements our leadership in hybrid SUVs. Equipped with the latest connectivity and safety features, and with space to spare, this will appeal to customers with an active lifestyle and who like to get into the outdoors.”
Tormey said “Not only does it offer a truly comfortable ride and has premium features throughout, the Highlander also offers a unique combination of power and lower emissions thanks to the 4th generation hybrid powertrain. This is something more customers are moving towards, especially after the Government budget and the general move towards electrified driving options. We’re delighted to be able to offer this to our customers, so that they can choose a model that contributes to cleaner air and a better environment for everyone.”
Pricing starts from €63,995 or €507 per month. The Highlander will be in Irish Toyota Showrooms from January and customers can place orders now. With limited supply for Q1 customers are encouraged to speak to their local dealer to avoid disappointment.