2022 Toyota Highlander: Your Ultimate Guide

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 44 views

Hey guys! So, you're thinking about diving into the world of the 2022 Toyota Highlander in the USA? Awesome choice! This SUV is a real crowd-pleaser, known for its reliability, spaciousness, and overall practicality. Whether you're hauling kids to soccer practice, planning a cross-country road trip, or just need a comfy ride for your daily commute, the Highlander has got you covered. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the 2022 model, from its different trim levels and features to its performance and safety ratings. Get ready to explore why the Toyota Highlander remains a top contender in the mid-size SUV segment and why it's a fantastic option for drivers across the United States. We will explore the in-depth features, from the engine specs to the interior comforts that make this vehicle a popular choice. We will also delve into what makes the 2022 Highlander a standout option. It's more than just a car; it's a lifestyle, a statement, and a reliable companion for all your journeys. Let's get started, shall we?

Trim Levels and Features: Find Your Perfect Highlander

Alright, let's talk about the different flavors of the 2022 Toyota Highlander! Toyota offers a range of trim levels, each designed to cater to different needs and budgets. This means there's a Highlander out there for almost everyone!

Firstly, we have the L trim, which is the entry-level model. Don't let that fool you, though; it still comes packed with features like a user-friendly infotainment system, Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety features (more on that later), and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. It's a great starting point if you're looking for a reliable and practical SUV without breaking the bank. Moving up the ladder, we find the LE trim, which adds a few extra goodies such as a power liftgate for easier loading and unloading, and fog lights for improved visibility in various weather conditions. It's a small step up that offers some convenience and aesthetic upgrades. Then there is the XLE trim, which is where things start to get a bit more luxurious. You'll get features like a moonroof, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. This trim is perfect if you value comfort and enjoy a more elevated driving experience. The Limited trim takes it a notch further, boasting leather-trimmed seats, a premium JBL audio system, and a hands-free power liftgate. It's all about providing a premium experience, offering top-tier comfort and convenience features. Finally, we have the Platinum trim, the top-of-the-line model. This trim offers even more premium features like a panoramic moonroof, a head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, and a unique interior design with premium materials. The Platinum is perfect if you want the ultimate Highlander experience. Each trim level of the 2022 Toyota Highlander offers unique features and enhancements, making it possible for every driver to find the ideal match for their requirements. So, whether you value the core features of the L trim or appreciate the luxurious details of the Platinum trim, the Highlander has an option to match your lifestyle and needs. The Highlander is designed to provide everyone with the most suitable and enjoyable driving experience. The 2022 Highlander is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to providing versatile and reliable vehicles.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Power and Practicality Combined

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood and how it performs on the road, shall we? The 2022 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of powertrains to suit your driving preferences. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6, which delivers a healthy amount of power and provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which ensures seamless gear changes and contributes to the overall fuel efficiency of the vehicle. For those who prioritize fuel economy, the Highlander also offers a hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to provide excellent fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The hybrid version is a great choice if you want to reduce your carbon footprint and save money at the pump. When it comes to fuel economy, the V6-powered Highlander achieves respectable numbers, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. The hybrid version, however, truly shines in this area, delivering outstanding fuel economy that will save you money on fuel costs over time. The Highlander's performance is not just about what's under the hood; it's also about how it handles on the road. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, and the steering is precise, making it easy to maneuver in various driving conditions. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the Highlander offers a confident and enjoyable driving experience. The Highlander also comes with available all-wheel drive, which enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. All-wheel drive is a great option if you live in an area with snowy or icy winters or if you enjoy occasional off-road adventures. Overall, the 2022 Toyota Highlander strikes a great balance between power, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics, making it a versatile and practical SUV for everyday use and longer journeys.

Safety Features and Technology: Keeping You and Your Family Safe

Safety is a top priority, and the 2022 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Toyota includes its Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver-assistance systems as standard equipment on all trim levels. This suite includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. The pre-collision system helps to detect potential collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident. Lane departure alert helps to keep you in your lane, and automatic high beams automatically switch between high and low beams as needed. Dynamic radar cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, making highway driving less stressful. In addition to the Toyota Safety Sense suite, the Highlander also offers other safety features, such as blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Blind spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert helps you to avoid collisions when backing up. The Highlander also has a strong structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. It is constructed with high-strength steel and includes multiple airbags throughout the cabin. The 2022 Toyota Highlander has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are a testament to the vehicle's commitment to safety and its ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash. The Highlander’s safety technology helps improve driving safety and overall vehicle security. This system provides safety and security on the roads.

Interior Comfort and Space: A Spacious and Comfortable Cabin

Step inside the 2022 Toyota Highlander, and you'll be greeted by a spacious and comfortable cabin that's designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo. The Highlander offers three rows of seating, making it a great choice for families. The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of legroom and headroom. The second row provides ample space for passengers, and the third row is surprisingly roomy for an SUV of this size. The Highlander can comfortably seat up to eight passengers, depending on the trim level and seating configuration. The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The dashboard and door panels are soft-touch, and the seats are available in a variety of materials, including cloth, synthetic leather, and genuine leather. The infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate. It features a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available features like navigation and a premium audio system. The cargo space in the Highlander is generous, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other items. With the rear seats folded down, you can create a flat cargo area that's perfect for hauling larger items. The Highlander also offers a variety of storage compartments and cubbies throughout the cabin, so you can keep your belongings organized. The interior ambient lighting and other features add a touch of luxury and enhance the overall driving experience. The Highlander's thoughtful design provides comfort and a pleasant environment for both drivers and passengers. These features and design elements make the Highlander an ideal choice for daily commutes, family trips, or long journeys. The focus on comfort, space, and a user-friendly design makes it a favorite among SUV drivers.

Driving Experience: Smooth and Confident on the Road

The 2022 Toyota Highlander provides a driving experience that is smooth, confident, and enjoyable, making it a reliable partner on any road. The vehicle's suspension system is carefully tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections, ensuring a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The steering is precise and responsive, providing excellent control and making it easy to maneuver in various driving conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Highlander feels planted and stable. The available all-wheel-drive system further enhances the driving experience, especially in adverse weather conditions. The AWD system continuously monitors road conditions and distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, providing enhanced traction and stability. This feature provides peace of mind when driving on snowy or icy roads. The Highlander also offers a quiet and refined cabin, minimizing road noise and ensuring a peaceful driving experience. The sound insulation materials and aerodynamic design contribute to a tranquil environment, allowing you to enjoy your music or engage in conversation without distraction. The vehicle's visibility is excellent, with large windows and strategically placed mirrors providing a clear view of the road and surroundings. This enhanced visibility improves safety and makes it easier to navigate in tight spaces. The 2022 Toyota Highlander's driving experience is characterized by its balance of comfort, control, and confidence. It is a vehicle that is well-suited for a variety of driving situations, from daily commutes to long road trips. The responsive handling, the comfortable ride quality, and the advanced safety features combine to provide a driving experience that is both enjoyable and reassuring. Whether you are driving in the city or on the open highway, the Highlander is a reliable vehicle.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected on the Go

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a range of advanced technology and infotainment features designed to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The infotainment system is the centerpiece of the cabin, featuring a user-friendly touchscreen display that controls various functions, including audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, with intuitive menus and controls. The Highlander also offers smartphone integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the infotainment system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This feature enables you to access your phone's apps, music, and contacts directly from the touchscreen display. In addition to smartphone integration, the Highlander also offers a variety of other tech features, such as a premium audio system, wireless smartphone charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The premium audio system delivers high-quality sound, and the wireless charging pad allows you to conveniently charge your smartphone without the need for cables. The Wi-Fi hotspot provides internet access for passengers, making it easy to stay connected on the road. The Highlander is equipped with a digital instrument cluster that displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and navigation instructions. The display is customizable, allowing you to tailor the information to your preferences. The 2022 Toyota Highlander’s tech and infotainment features are designed to enhance the driving experience and provide convenience and entertainment for both the driver and the passengers. These features include the seamless smartphone integration, Wi-Fi hotspot, and digital instrument cluster. They add to the overall appeal of this versatile SUV.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages

Let's take a look at the good and the not-so-good of the 2022 Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

Reliability: Toyota has a stellar reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. This SUV is known for its durability and longevity, which means you can expect it to last for many years to come with proper maintenance.
Spacious Interior: The Highlander offers a generous amount of space for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers.
Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander Hybrid version offers excellent fuel economy, saving you money at the pump. This is a significant advantage in today's market, where fuel prices can fluctuate.
Safety Features: The Highlander comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including the Toyota Safety Sense suite. These features help to protect you and your passengers in various driving scenarios.
Resale Value: Toyota vehicles, including the Highlander, tend to hold their value well over time. This means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you decide to sell or trade in your vehicle.

Cons:

Base Engine Power: The standard V6 engine, while adequate, may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when fully loaded. If you prioritize performance, you might want to consider the hybrid version, which offers better acceleration.
Infotainment System: While user-friendly, the infotainment system can be a bit slow to respond at times. Some users might find the interface less intuitive compared to other systems on the market.
Third-Row Space: While the third row is functional, it can be cramped for adults on longer trips. It's best suited for children or occasional use.
Price: The Highlander can be a bit pricier than some of its competitors, especially when you start adding options and upgrades. However, the reliability, features, and resale value often justify the price. The 2022 Toyota Highlander offers various benefits, but it also has its drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. Careful consideration of these points will help you to determine if this SUV meets your requirements.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Toyota Highlander Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Toyota Highlander the right SUV for you? Well, that depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a reliable, spacious, and safe SUV with excellent fuel efficiency, the Highlander is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for families, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The available hybrid powertrain and extensive safety features add to its appeal. However, if you prioritize performance or are on a tighter budget, you might want to explore other options. The Highlander's base engine might feel a bit underpowered for some, and the price can be a bit higher than some competitors. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Highlander is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Visit your local Toyota dealership and experience the 2022 Toyota Highlander for yourself. You'll get a feel for its performance, comfort, and features, and you'll be able to decide if it's the perfect SUV for your lifestyle. The Highlander offers a comprehensive package of features, performance, and reliability. This makes it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. The 2022 Highlander is a great option for a wide range of drivers. The Highlander is a great choice and a good vehicle option.