Fresh off notable revisions in 2011, the 2012 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid continued to solidify their reputation for exceptional value, as recognized by numerous third-party automotive authorities. Proudly manufactured at Toyota’s Princeton, Indiana plant, the Highlander 2012 Toyota is a versatile three-row crossover SUV, offering a compelling blend of practicality and performance. Buyers in 2012 had the choice between efficient four-cylinder and robust V6 engines, along with front-wheel drive (FWD) and full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. For those prioritizing fuel economy without sacrificing capability, the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota delivered an outstanding EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, a class-leading figure at the time.
The original Toyota Highlander pioneered the midsize crossover SUV segment, masterfully merging car-like driving dynamics, comfort, and fuel efficiency with the spaciousness and versatility traditionally associated with SUVs. The second-generation Highlander 2012 Toyota amplified these core strengths, establishing itself as a leader in its class, particularly in standard active and passive safety technologies. Across all trims, the 2012 Toyota Highlander came equipped with standard 50/50 split third-row seating and rear climate control, emphasizing passenger comfort and adaptability.
For the 2012 model year, the Toyota Highlander was offered in Highlander, SE, and Limited trims, each available with either front-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive. A potent 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine was standard on the Limited trim and optional for the Highlander and SE models, providing ample power for families and cargo. The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota, exclusively featuring four-wheel drive with intelligence (4WD-i), was available in Highlander and Limited grades, combining efficiency and all-weather capability.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency of the 2012 Highlander
The Toyota Highlander 2012 offered a spectrum of performance options to suit diverse driving needs. The base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine delivered a balanced 187 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 186 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 RPM. This engine prioritized fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 MPG on the highway, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys. Key engine technologies included a variable intake manifold and dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), optimizing both torque delivery and fuel economy by precisely controlling valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This four-cylinder engine was paired exclusively with a smooth and responsive six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
For those seeking more robust performance, the available 3.5-liter V6 engine (standard on the Limited trim) significantly boosted power output to 270 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 RPM. Like the four-cylinder, the V6 also incorporated dual VVT-i and a variable intake manifold, ensuring a broad torque curve and efficient operation. The V6 was mated to a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECT) that offered selectable manual sequential shifting, giving drivers more control when desired.
The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota represented the pinnacle of efficiency and capability in the lineup. Its Hybrid Synergy Drive system was upgraded in the previous year with a more powerful 3.5-liter V6, replacing the earlier 3.3-liter unit. This system intelligently combined the gasoline V6 engine with a high-torque electric motor-generator, achieving a total system output of 280 net horsepower. Notably, the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota featured a second, rear-mounted electric motor that provided automatic on-demand four-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
This unique 4WD-i system in the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota delivered rear-wheel power via a dedicated electric motor, eliminating the need for traditional mechanical power-transfer components like gearing or a driveshaft from the front. The system dynamically adjusted front and rear torque distribution based on real-time traction conditions, optimizing grip and control. An EV mode switch, conveniently located on the center console, allowed drivers to operate solely on electric power under specific conditions – for short distances at low speeds or in stop-and-go traffic, further maximizing fuel savings. Additionally, an ECON drive mode switch activated a throttle control program that adjusted throttle response during acceleration to enhance fuel economy even further. A Hybrid System Indicator integrated into the instrument panel provided drivers with real-time feedback to optimize their driving habits for maximum fuel efficiency.
Ride and Handling of the 2012 Toyota Highlander
The 2012 Toyota Highlander continued its legacy of delivering a comfortable, composed, and quiet ride, a hallmark of the model. It featured a four-wheel independent suspension system, employing MacPherson struts at the front and a dual-link strut rear suspension. The base and SE Highlander trims were equipped with standard 17-inch alloy wheels and 245/65 R17 tires, while the Limited trim upgraded to 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/55 R19 tires for a more premium look and feel. A direct tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) was standard across all models, alerting drivers to critically low tire pressure, enhancing safety. All Highlander 2012 Toyota models came equipped with four-wheel disc brakes for confident stopping power. For conventional Highlander 2012 Toyota models, full-time four-wheel drive was available on all V6-powered trims, providing enhanced all-weather capability and traction.
Active Safety Features in the 2012 Highlander
Safety was a paramount concern for families, and the 2012 Toyota Highlander delivered with a comprehensive suite of standard active safety features. Every Highlander 2012 Toyota included Toyota’s Star Safety System™, a sophisticated integration of key safety technologies: enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electric Power Steering (EPS), and an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Enhanced VSC played a crucial role in maintaining driver control by automatically modulating engine output and applying braking force to individual wheels when needed, particularly in challenging driving situations. The system also provided steering assistance via EPS to guide the driver in the correct direction during evasive maneuvers. Gasoline-powered Highlander 2012 Toyota models further benefited from a straight-line steering feature. In instances of uneven traction, where ABS might apply differing brake force to the left and right wheels, this system could apply steering torque to counteract any left or rightward pull, promoting straight-line stability.
The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota took active safety a step further with the inclusion of the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM was engineered to proactively enhance handling, traction, and braking performance. Unlike conventional systems that react to vehicle driving conditions, VDIM anticipated potential tire slippage before a skid, slide, or wheel spin occurred. It then initiated smooth and progressive corrections to maintain vehicle stability. VDIM integrated all of the Highlander’s dynamic control systems – VSC, TRAC, BA, EPS, EBD, and ABS – and leveraged proprietary software to seamlessly coordinate the Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETC-i) and Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB). All 2012 Toyota Highlander models, including the hybrid, incorporated a corner-braking feature. This system intelligently limited brake pressure on the inside wheels during cornering, leveraging the integrated dynamic control systems to enhance control and stability through turns. Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), standard on all models, provided added peace of mind on inclines by preventing rollback when starting from a stop, holding brake pressure for approximately two seconds.
For added control on steep declines, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) was standard equipment on all Highlander 2012 Toyota gasoline 4WD models. DAC was designed to maintain a constant, slow speed and preserve handling and steering control by mitigating wheel lockup under braking, even on slippery downhill surfaces.
Occupant Safety Features of the 2012 Highlander
The 2012 Toyota Highlander prioritized occupant protection with a comprehensive suite of seven standard airbags. These included advanced driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. Roll-sensing side curtain airbags extended protection to all three rows of occupants in the event of certain side collisions or a potential vehicle rollover. Furthermore, all Highlander 2012 Toyota models were equipped with front seat active headrests, designed to minimize whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
Comfort and Convenience Features of the 2012 Highlander
The 2012 Toyota Highlander was well-equipped with standard comfort and convenience features designed to enhance the driving and passenger experience. These included front and rear air conditioning, an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat (upgraded to 10-way on the Limited trim), power door locks and windows with driver’s window jam protection and auto-up/down functionality, a manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel, cruise control, a multi-function keyless entry system, UV-reduction windshield and rear privacy glass, a digital clock, dual sun visors with vanity mirrors and sliding extensions, a conversation mirror, an illuminated entry system, a scheduled maintenance indicator light, and a full-size spare tire, among other features.
The Highlander SE and Limited trims included a standard backup camera with a 3.5-inch multi-information display, a feature available as part of an optional Tech Package for the base Highlander trim. This display provided a backup camera monitor, clock, outside temperature reading, warning messages, and comprehensive cruise information, including average fuel economy, average speed, distance to empty, current fuel economy, and trip timer. Models equipped with the optional navigation system displayed the backup camera images on a larger seven-inch navigation screen.
The Tech Audio system, standard on SE and Limited trims and optional for the base Highlander, added a USB port, integrated XM Satellite Radio (including a 90-day trial subscription), hands-free phone capability, and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology, ensuring a wide range of connectivity options for occupants. In the base Highlander trim, this was part of a more extensive package that also included a backup monitor with the 3.5-inch multi-information display, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a tonneau cover, an engine immobilizer, easy-clean fabric interior, a flip-up liftgate window, fog lamps, and black roof rails.
The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota base trim further enhanced standard features with easy-clean fabric seating, an eight-way power driver’s seat, the Tech Audio system, third-row seating, and manual rear climate control. The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota base trim offered an optional Leather Package, which included leather-trimmed seats with front seat heaters, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, a power moonroof, HomeLink®, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and an engine immobilizer with security alarm. The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota Limited trim featured standard automatic climate control for the rear and offered premium perforated leather seating surfaces.
Available Options for the 2012 Highlander
Buyers of the 2012 Toyota Highlander had access to a variety of optional features and accessories to personalize their vehicles. These included a voice-activated touch screen navigation system with an eight-inch screen, premium JBL audio systems, leather-trimmed seats with front seat heaters, and a power tilt/slide moonroof. For those planning to tow, an optional tow package for V6 models increased towing capacity to a maximum of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder tow package enabled towing up to 3,500 pounds. A power liftgate, operable via key fob or driver-side control, was optional on the base Highlander trim and standard on SE and Limited models.
Exterior Styling of the 2012 Toyota Highlander
The second-generation Highlander 2012 Toyota, designed at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California, conveyed a modern and dynamic presence through its clean, sculpted lines, wide and stable stance, and muscular contours. Even the base Highlander trim presented a refined appearance with its six-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, color-keyed power remote outside mirrors, and silver-painted front grille. The Limited trim exuded a more luxurious aesthetic with chrome door handles and roof rails, puddle lamps, and a rear spoiler. The Limited trim also featured stylish 19-inch alloy wheels and chrome roof rails.
The Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota was visually distinguished from its gasoline counterpart by a unique grille and bumper design, color-keyed rockers with chrome accents, and vertically stacked fog lamps. Projector beam headlights and taillights with blue lens covers further differentiated the hybrid model.
Interior Design and Versatility of the 2012 Highlander
The 2012 Toyota Highlander boasted an open, airy, and highly versatile interior, offering seating for up to seven passengers and a maximum cargo capacity of 95.4 cubic feet (94.1 cubic feet for the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota). The cabin was thoughtfully designed with numerous storage compartments, along with 10 cup holders, four bottle holders, two front and one cargo-area 12-volt auxiliary power outlets, and cargo area tie-down hooks.
The Highlander and SE trims featured a center console and shift knob with silver-painted accents and front driver and passenger assist grips. The Limited trim elevated the interior ambiance with wood-grain-style trim on the center console, shift knob, and assist grip. Interior styling enhancements in the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota included silver and wood grain-style trim with chrome door handle accents, Optitron meters with blue graphics, and a power meter with a hybrid system indicator.
Headrests were adjustable in two ways on the base Highlander trim and four ways on the SE and Limited trims, demonstrating attention to detail in passenger comfort. The second row featured 40/20/40 split seatbacks, offering flexibility to function as a three-person bench or, by removing the Center Stow™ seat, transform into two captain’s chairs with armrests. Removing the center seat created a convenient walk-through area for easier access to the third row. Alternatively, a second-row Center Stow center console could be placed between the captain’s chairs, adding storage and convenience, especially for families with child seats. The second-row seats also offered fore-and-aft sliding and reclining adjustments. The third row provided 50/50 split seats with fold-down headrests and a fold-flat-into-floor capability, maximizing both passenger comfort and cargo versatility. Access to the third row was simplified by placing the walk-in lever in an easily accessible position at the bottom of the passenger-side second-row seat. Standard one-touch levers, available inside the cargo area on SE and Limited gasoline models and all Hybrid models, allowed for effortless folding of the second-row seats. The third-row seats functioned similarly, using a lever located at the back of the seat.
Warranty and Toyota Care for the 2012 Highlander
The 2012 Toyota Highlander was backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage. A 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty covered all components except for normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties covered the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components in the Highlander Hybrid 2012 Toyota, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module, and inverter with converter, were covered for an extended period of eight years or 100,000 miles.
Furthermore, the 2012 Toyota Highlander included Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever came first, adding further value and peace of mind for new owners.
In conclusion, the 2012 Toyota Highlander stood out as a well-rounded and dependable family SUV, offering a compelling combination of performance, safety, comfort, and versatility. Whether considering a gasoline or hybrid model, the Highlander 2012 Toyota remained a smart choice for those seeking a reliable and practical vehicle.
