2013 Toyota Highlander review

The 2013 Toyota Highlander is a compelling choice for a seven-seat crossover even in the last year of this model's life. It's slightly smaller than some of its rivals, but it still has a lot going for it. For one, its slightly smaller dimensions make it easier to live with day to day, particularly if you're parking it. The rearmost seats aren't quite as spacious as some, but Toyota's neat second-row seats, which can slide, fold, and recline, mean kids will find clambering back into the third row a cinch. This Toyota does just about everything so competently that it's an easygoing choice for daily duties.

Helping matters are two powerful engines. The standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp does a decent job of moving the Highlander, but the optional 3.5-liter V6 with a more potent 270 hp gives this capable family hauler brisker acceleration and better performance if you're towing. Both engines come with a standard automatic transmission driving the front wheels, though all-wheel drive is an option. The other powertrain is the Highlander Hybrid, which adds electric motors to the V6 and standard all-wheel drive for a combination of nice performance and improved EPA-estimated fuel economy. The trim levels are base, a new-for-2013 Plus level, SE, and Limited, and the Hybrid comes in base and Limited trims. The SE offers the right balance of useful equipment at a sensible price, though if you want Toyota's Entune™ infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, you'll need to spring for the Limited. A fine all-rounder, the Highlander bows out this year in its current form, and an all-new model arrives for 2014.