The 2015 Toyota highlander XLE is all set to entice SUV lovers this year. Since its announcement the crossover SUV has generated a lot of buzz in the market especially with regard to its design and performance features. The latest model flaunts a sturdier and masculine design which does not take away a bit of its appeal as an all-purpose car for the family. Not only is it more spacious and roomy than some of its predecessors and contemporaries, it is also one of the most efficient in terms of fuel consumption. Here is how it performs in the road test.
Engine Performance
The 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE is powered by a 2.7 liter engine that is accompanied with a four cylinder base. This gives it impressive power on the roads and makes achieving high speeds possible. However, the transmission is limited to six speeds but it is completely automatic. We have seen a couple of sedans launched this year that offer up to seven speed transmission settings.
The powertrains unfortunately have not undergone a lot of development for the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE as they have been brought in from earlier models. However, they perform well and do not take away from the overall performance. When it comes to horsepower the power generated is close to 185 hp while the torque produced is close to 184 lb-ft.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE meets the driver’s expectations when it comes to fuel economy. This SUV is not your typical gas guzzler on the highway. It comes with a hybrid engine that is extremely efficient in fuel consumption. The car also has a base four-cylinder engine along with optional V-6 feature. Compared with other models in the same category, fuel economy is good and eases the pressure on the pocket.
Attractive Design
One cannot help but take pride in the intriguing gazes that this model invites on the road. The designers have probably burnt the midnight oil in giving a distinctive appearance to the 2015 Toyota highlander XLE as it looks like a perfect cross between an SUV and a crossover vehicle. To add to the masculine and rugged look of the vehicle, the makers have put in place a bold front grille along with adding greater depth and height to the wheel wells.
In terms of interiors, they have been designed in a very unambiguous way leaving no doubt that the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE is a family car at the end of the day. The furnishings and linings are plush and offer much needed comfort to the occupants. A particularly noticeable aspect of the interior is that it is sufficiently insulated against noise from the powertrain by virtue of the acoustic glass and floor insulation. Features have been added to facilitate storage as well as connectivity to electrical devices.
Overall, the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE is one of the more interesting models to be launched this year, especially with regard to its design. The performance, however, is satisfactory but it is nothing extraordinary or exceptional.
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