Toyota has announced that its hybrid Highlander SUV has been given a modest smattering of visual and tech upgrades inside and out.
New on the seven-seater is the metallic Cypress Green colour with the option of contrast with 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels and two new leather seat upholstery choices in beige and ochre.
New multimedia system
Also new to the Highlander is the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system seen elsewhere in the Toyota line-up, such as in the Yaris, Yaris Cross and other models. This introduces a 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen to the cabin with control possible through an onboard voice assistant. There are added functions in the form of cloud-based navigation, which can be accessed without having to pair it with a smartphone or having to pay additional data costs, as the Highlander is sold with an inclusive four-year data plan which also includes over-the-air updates.
Higher grade models are equipped with Toyota Smart Connect+, which additionally provides an embedded navigation system which is capable of operating even when the cloud can't be reached due to connectivity issues. Beyond the standard Smart Connect navigation, the Smart Connect+ system also provides 3D city mapping, road sign recognition and fixed speed camera location information.
The Smart Connect system also enables remote functions via a smartphone app, including locking and unlocking the doors and operating the hazard lights to help locate the Highlander in a crowded car park. Wireless phone charging is available thanks to a new wireless charging tray located in the centre console. Also wireless is Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring, though users of Android Auto still have to use a wired connection.
As well as the new central touchscreen, there's another 12.3-inch screen in the form of the configurable driver's instrument cluster, with the graphics customisable based on four design themes - Casual, Smart, Tough and Sport - depending on the driver's preferences.
Same powertrain remains
Aside from this small selection of updates, everything remains as is with the Highlander (in the Irish market at least), with the retention of the same 248hp hybrid system utilising a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
Irish market pricing and details have yet to be confirmed for the updated Toyota Highlander.