Toyota Korea is set to launch the 7-seater SUV ‘Highlander’ on July 25, with pre-orders starting from June 27 at official Toyota dealer showrooms nationwide.
The Highlander, known for its efficient fuel economy, comfort, and versatile space utilization, has been a favorite among customers in the North American market since its first generation in 2001, now reaching the fourth generation. The model being introduced in South Korea comes equipped with a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain and will be available in two trims: Platinum and Limited.
Its exterior boasts a low center of gravity, providing a strong presence, while the graceful curves convey strength and elegance. Inside, the design emphasizes a horizontal space layout showcasing a luxurious combination of materials and colors, projecting the image of a premium SUV.
The Highlander features a total of three rows, with independent captain’s seats in the second row. The positioning of the seats in each row is staggered, providing an open view for passengers and allowing for the second and third-row seats to fold flat simultaneously for outdoor activities like camping.
Built on the TNGA-K (Toyota New Global Architecture-K) platform, the Highlander offers a solid, stable driving experience with advantages of low center of gravity, lightweight construction, and high rigidity. Moreover, the ‘Pitch Body Control’ technology minimizes vehicle pitching during acceleration, resulting in smoother rides for passengers.
Combining a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with an electric motor, the Highlander produces a total system output of 246 horsepower. It achieves an impressive fuel efficiency of 13.8 km per liter, making it eligible for environmental-friendly vehicle benefits and low-emission vehicle support.
Mr. Kyung-Dae Hwan of Toyota Korea stated, “By introducing the Highlander, a model loved in the global market, we are further strengthening Toyota’s electrified SUV lineup, offering a great choice for customers who value both outdoor and eco-friendly aspects in the SUV trend.”
Jin Lee is reachable at daedusj@autodiary.kr