2016 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander offers room for up to eight, a choice of three powertrains and four model grades. For 2016, Toyota makes the towing package standard on all V6 models.

The package includes a heavy-duty radiator with engine oil cooler, 200-watt fan coupling, supplemental transmission oil cooler and 150-amp alternator and allows the V6 models to tow a trailer up to 5,000 pounds.

The Highlander offers excellent visibility in all directions, from all three rows. And it's a hushed cabin, too, thanks to acoustic-type glass used for the windshield that helps keep outside noise where it belongs.

High quality materials and extensive standard equipment underscore the renowned Toyota value. A soft-touch instrument panel and silver-painted, satin, and chrome-plated accents throughout the interior convey a near-luxury feel.

The LE front-wheel drive model's standard 185-horsepower 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is teamed with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. All other gas grades come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 270-horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque. The other powertrain choice is the Hybrid Synergy Drive with 280 total system horsepower.

Driving a family crossover, nobody wants to have to think much about all-wheel drive capability; they just need it to work when needed to get the vehicle through slippery weather, snow and the occasional muddy trail. Dynamic Torque Control AWD for the Highlander helps do just that. A sophisticated, high-speed interactive management system coordinates control of the Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Vehicle Stability Control and Electric Power Steering systems to enhance performance, handling and safety.