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Comprehensive Guide to the 2017 Toyota Highlander: Features, Performance, and Safety

July. 30,2025

Discover the comprehensive features of the 2017 Toyota Highlander, including its performance, safety technology, spacious interior, and modern design. Ideal for families and adventure seekers, this SUV offers a perfect balance of power, safety, and comfort, making it a top choice in the midsize SUV category.

Comprehensive Guide to the 2017 Toyota Highlander: Features, Performance, and Safety

Comprehensive Guide to the 2017 Toyota Highlander: Features, Performance, and Safety

The 2017 Toyota Highlander stands out as a highly versatile and reliable SUV that caters to families and individuals alike. With its robust build, modern design, and impressive feature set, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and safety. Offered in eight distinct trims and available in nine vibrant colors, the Highlander caters to diverse preferences and needs.

One of the most significant advantages of the 2017 Highlander is that all variants come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to improve safety and driver confidence. This includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams, contributing to a safer driving experience for everyone on the road.

The exterior design of the 2017 Highlander emphasizes strength and sophistication. Its bold front grille is complemented by sleek black headlights and daytime running lights that give it a commanding presence. The redesigned multi-spoke alloy wheels not only enhance its sporty appeal but also improve handling and stability. LED taillights add a modern touch while improving rear visibility, ensuring safety during nighttime driving. Overall, the exterior design strikes a perfect balance between style and functionality, making the Highlander suitable for city driving and off-road adventures alike.

Under the hood, the Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive combination of power and fuel efficiency. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it provides smooth acceleration and responsive handling. The vehicle is capable of achieving an estimated 27 miles per gallon on highways, making it an economical choice for long-distance travel. Additionally, the inclusion of Stop and Start technology helps optimize fuel consumption by shutting off the engine during idle periods, then quickly restarting when needed.

The Highlander’s all-wheel-drive (AWD) models are particularly suited for challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions. This feature ensures better traction, control, and safety whether you're navigating snow-covered roads or rough terrain. Whether for daily commuting or weekend getaways, the Highlander offers reliable performance across various driving conditions.

The interior of the 2017 Highlander is designed with both comfort and utility in mind. It features spacious seating for up to eight passengers, making it an excellent family vehicle. The seats are upholstered with high-quality materials, providing comfort during long drives. A key highlight is the flexible 60/40 split-third-row seats, which allow owners to easily expand cargo space when needed. This makes loading larger items or luggage effortless, turning the Highlander into a versatile transportation option.

For entertainment and connectivity, the vehicle comes with five USB ports, ensuring that all passengers can charge their devices conveniently. The rear-seat entertainment system, complemented by wireless headphones, keeps passengers entertained during long journeys, reducing distractions for the driver.

Safety remains a cornerstone of the Highlander’s appeal. Besides Toyota Safety Sense P, it incorporates various advanced safety features like Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Steering Assist, which actively help keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle corrective steering. The automatic high beams are a significant addition, as they can detect oncoming traffic up to 2000 feet away, automatically switching between high and low beams. This technology significantly enhances nighttime visibility, reducing driver fatigue and risk of accidents.

Driving the 2017 Highlander not only promises performance and safety but also a modern, driver-friendly interior that emphasizes convenience. Its thoughtful design details, such as a user-friendly dashboard layout and quality materials, create a comfortable environment. Whether you're a family looking for reliability or an adventurous soul seeking a capable SUV, the Highlander offers a well-rounded package.

In conclusion, the 2017 Toyota Highlander combines robust performance, innovative safety features, and family-friendly amenities. Its stylish exterior, spacious interior, and technological advancements make it a standout choice in the midsize SUV segment. For anyone in the market for a dependable and versatile vehicle, the Highlander deserves serious consideration.