The 2003 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV based on the
Camry platform but making a significant mark for itself
as a popular versatile family-oriented vehicle. With all
the advantages of the SUV class, that is, visibility, off-road
and adverse terrain capability, roominess and safety, the
Highlander is a popular choice that definitely fulfils an
important role for Toyota in their line-up.
Unlike the 4Runner, with a bias toward rugged work-horse
utility, the 2003 Toyota Highlander is like a luxury sedan
with more abilities. Based on a unibody platform with four-wheel
independent suspension, this vehicle also has a tight, quiet
ride and the 37.4-foot turning circle makes it easy to manoeuvre.
The Highlander is available in six configurations with two
engines and two drive systems and it has been rated one
of the highest quality mid-size SUVs on the market.
Available Models
The 2003 Toyota Highlander comes in six different forms.
First there is a choice of 4-cylinder or V6 engines and
either 2 or all-wheel drive. Then, on the V6 you can choose
between the base or up-level Limited version, with significantly
increased standard content.
Interior Features
A Highlander buyer is looking for sedan comfort with SUV
capability and so Toyota has offered generous standard equipment
levels on the base version. The lengthy equipment list includes
defroster-linked air conditioning with a cabin air filter,
UV reduction glass, power windows and door locks, cruise
control, a 3-in-1 AM/FM/ETR cassette/CD sound system with
six speakers and variable intermittent windshield wipers.
And these are just highlights.
The 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited models add an automatic
climate control system with multi-function display, a JBL
premium 3-in-1 audio system with eight speakers, a power
drivers seat with eight-way adjustment plus lumbar, a HomeLink®
universal remote control system, heated mirrors, remote
keyless entry, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer,
chestnut wood-grain style interior trim, leather-covered
shift knob and steering wheel, color-keyed rear spoiler,
and additional amenities.
Exterior Features
The base model 2003 Toyota Highlander is already equipped
with bold Highlander style but an upgrade to the Limited
version adds some interesting features to the exterior.
Aluminium wheels (including a full-size aluminium spare
wheel), a roof rack, integrated fog lights and rear privacy
glass are all part of the offering.
Performance
The 2003 Toyota Highlander has a four-cylinder 2.4-liter
dohc engine with variable valve timing (VVT-i) that produces
155 hp at 5600rpm and 163 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4000.
A move up to the V6 gets the same VVT-i system but it manages
a 3.0-liter dohc powerplant with 220 horsepower at 5800
and 222 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4400.
VVT-i ensures an even and efficient application of power
anywhere in the engine ranges and both have EPA certification
as Low Emission Vehicles and both are teamed exclusively
with a four-speed electronic automatic transmission.
2WD (rear) or AWD platforms are available for either engine.
Toyota's AWD system employs a bevel-gear center differential
with a viscous coupling to divide engine power between front
and rear as needed front and rear.
Safety and Security
Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, dual front
airbags and daytime running lights are standard equipment.
Optional add-ons include front- and curtain-side airbags.
2003 Toyota Highlander
Highlights
The
Highlander is based on a unibody platform with four-wheel
independent suspension. This type of construction
provides a tight, quiet ride like that expected in
a high-quality mid-size sedan. Its higher ride height
provides a command view of the road, and a tight 37.4-foot
turning circle makes it easy to maneuver.
The
Toyota Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) system with traction
control (TRAC) is available as an option with either
drive system. The VSC system helps keep the vehicle
going on its intended course by detecting front-wheel
slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting
to control either condition with torque throttle intervention
and/or by braking individual wheels.
High-value
content is a Toyota cornerstone, and the Highlander
lives up to that reputation. The lengthy standard
equipment list includes defroster-linked air conditioning
with a cabin air filter, UV reduction glass, power
windows and door locks, cruise control, tilt steering
wheel, a 3-in-1 AM/FM/ETR cassette/CD sound system
with six speakers and variable intermittent windshield
wipers.
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Get
a Free Price Quote on a 2003 Toyota Highlander.
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Fast Stats
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Seats |
5
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MSRP
from |
$24,390
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Engine |
2.4L 4-Cylinder
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3.0L V6
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Horsepower |
155 @ 5,600
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220 @ 5,800
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Transmission |
4-speed automatic
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MPG:
City/Hwy |
2.4L 2WD: 22/27
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2.4L 4WD: 19/24
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3.0L 2WD: 19/23
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3.0L 4WD: 18/22
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