New 2011 Toyota Highlander

There are 2WD and 4WD entry level models, plus the flagship 4WD Limited.

The 2011 Toyota Highlander is powered by a 3.5 litre dual VVT-i petrol engine with an electronically controlled automatic transmission. All models offer driver and passenger front, driver’s knee, front side and three-row curtain shield airbags. An Anti-lock System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) is standard, as is steering assisted Vehicle Stability Control Plus (VSC ) and Traction Control (TRC).

Inside, the Limited has the added features of dual-zone climate controlled air conditioning, rear climate controlled air conditioning, power front seat adjustment, driver’s seat variable cushion length adjustment, front seat heaters, perforated leather seat trim, four-spoke leather steering wheel with air conditioning controls, leather gearshift lever, stainless steel Highlander scuff plates and a six-disc CD changer.

For 2011, 2011 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid get updated styling and performance upgrades – plus more competitive pricing. The 2011 Toyota Highlander MSRP starts at $31,500 – its lowest ever and a full $1,750 lower than the base price of the cheapest 2010 models. What's more, the 2011 models come equipped with even more standard features.

Toyota Canada also announced a new value option package for 2011 RAV4. The Touring Extra Value Package includes a power moonroof, unique wheels, an upgraded stereo with steering wheel-mounted audio controls, XM Satellite Radio capability and six-disc CD changer, upgraded cloth seats and more. The first new Lexus to hit Canadian dealerships will be the refreshed 2011 Lexus IS series.

Toyota Highlander utterly dominates its class and sport utility sales have defied market conditions by remaining buoyant - accounting for 20 percent of whole new vehicle market. How many times, Ford, do we have to say it: Diesel, diesel, diesel. Toyota product spokesman Neeraj Lala says there's still a core of customers who, having weighed up running costs and performance differences, still prefer petrol. Amazingly, you need tick the options list to buy what it really needs: Reversing sensors. Out on the road, there's little evidence of big change. Both cars I drove never beat 15L/100km.

Ride quality isn't bad, and the Toyota Australia-tuned suspension provides good control for a car so large, though the electronic driving aids quickly rein in any derring-do, as is the Toyota way.