Hey guys! So, you're looking for the lowdown on the 2022 Toyota Highlander L? Awesome! You've come to the right place. We're diving deep into what makes this SUV tick, from its features and performance to its overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to explore everything you need to know about the Highlander L and see if it's the right ride for you and your crew. In this article, we'll cover its pros and cons, how it stacks up against the competition, and what kind of bang you get for your buck. Let's get started!

What is the 2022 Toyota Highlander L?

First things first, what exactly is the 2022 Toyota Highlander L? Well, it's the entry-level trim of the incredibly popular Toyota Highlander. The Highlander is a mid-size SUV that's known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. The 'L' trim is designed to be the most affordable option, making the Highlander accessible to a wider range of buyers. Don't let the 'entry-level' label fool you, though. The Highlander L still comes packed with a lot of great stuff, making it a strong contender in its segment. Think of it as a solid foundation upon which you can build, offering all the essentials without breaking the bank. It's perfect for those who prioritize practicality and value without sacrificing the core strengths that the Highlander has become famous for. We're talking a comfortable ride, a decent amount of cargo space, and Toyota's reputation for long-term dependability. This Highlander aims to deliver a compelling package for everyday use.

Now, let's talk about the exterior. The 2022 Highlander L features a modern and sleek design. It has a bold front grille, stylish headlights, and a sculpted body that gives it a dynamic appearance. While the L trim might not have all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, it still looks good on the road, with a design that's both functional and visually appealing. The overall design language is consistent with the rest of the Highlander lineup, ensuring that it looks and feels like a modern and capable SUV. The exterior design focuses on practicality, offering easy access and a commanding view of the road.

Key Features and Specifications

When we get into the details, the Highlander L boasts some seriously impressive specifications. Under the hood, the 2022 Highlander L is powered by a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, churning out a respectable 295 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. The L trim comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. However, all-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an optional upgrade if you need extra traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The Highlander L provides a capable and efficient driving experience that's well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. Its engine offers enough power for everyday tasks, such as merging onto highways and carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.

Inside, you'll find a comfortable and spacious cabin. The Highlander L can seat up to eight passengers with its second-row bench seat configuration. Even if you choose the available captain's chairs in the second row, you'll still have plenty of room for seven. The materials are of good quality, and the design is user-friendly. The Highlander L includes a standard infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of safety features. The interior is designed to be functional and accommodating, ensuring that both the driver and passengers have a pleasant experience. It's all about making sure that the ride is enjoyable, whether you're taking a quick trip to the grocery store or embarking on a long road trip.

Driving Experience and Performance of the 2022 Highlander L

Let's be real, how does the 2022 Toyota Highlander L actually drive? The driving experience of the Highlander L is smooth and comfortable, which is exactly what you'd expect from a family-oriented SUV. The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving needs. You won't feel like you're struggling to merge onto the highway or haul a full load of passengers and cargo. The eight-speed automatic transmission does a great job of providing seamless gear changes, making the ride even smoother. The Highlander L offers a balanced driving experience. It's not a sports car, and it's not trying to be. Instead, it prioritizes a comfortable ride that's perfect for long drives and daily commutes.

One of the standout features of the Highlander L is its ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and composed ride. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the Highlander L keeps you feeling relaxed and in control. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The overall driving dynamics are predictable and user-friendly, making it a great choice for families and drivers of all experience levels. The Highlander L offers a confidence-inspiring driving experience that makes it a pleasure to drive. The vehicle focuses on making sure the driver feels safe and in control. Its design helps to make driving less of a chore and more enjoyable.

Fuel Efficiency

In terms of fuel efficiency, the front-wheel-drive Highlander L achieves an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive version, you can expect slightly lower fuel economy, around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the Highlander L, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to save money at the pump. The Highlander's fuel economy figures are competitive in its class, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a practical and efficient SUV. This also helps reduce emissions compared to a car with bad gas mileage. The fuel economy makes it a great choice for commuting. It can also save you money on long road trips.

Interior, Comfort, and Technology

Alright, let's talk about the inside of the 2022 Toyota Highlander L. Step inside, and you're greeted with a well-designed and functional cabin that's built for comfort and practicality. The Highlander L is all about providing a comfortable and enjoyable space for both the driver and passengers. Even though it's the entry-level trim, the interior materials are of good quality, and the design is user-friendly. The layout is logical, and the controls are easy to reach and understand. It's clear that Toyota has put a lot of thought into the ergonomics of the interior, ensuring that everything is within easy reach and that the overall driving experience is as stress-free as possible.

One of the highlights of the interior is its spaciousness. The Highlander L offers three rows of seating, making it a great choice for families. The second-row bench seat can accommodate up to three passengers, while the third row is best suited for kids or smaller adults. Even with all three rows in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space behind the third row, making it easy to carry luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The Highlander L provides a comfortable and spacious environment for all passengers, ensuring that everyone can ride in comfort, whether it's a short trip to the store or a long road trip. The interior is designed to provide everyone with adequate space. The interior design makes sure everything is easy to use and provides ample storage.

Infotainment System and Tech Features

The 2022 Highlander L comes equipped with a standard infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of safety features. The infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and intuitive controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems. The Highlander L offers all the technology you need to stay connected and entertained on the go. The infotainment system supports your devices. The inclusion of smartphone integration is a real plus.

In terms of safety features, the Highlander L comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and make the driving experience more enjoyable and less stressful. The Highlander L is designed to keep you and your passengers safe, providing you with peace of mind on the road. The suite of safety features is one of the biggest benefits of the Highlander L.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Toyota Highlander L

Let's break down the good and the bad of the 2022 Toyota Highlander L, shall we? Knowing the strengths and weaknesses is super important when deciding if this SUV is the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Reliability: Toyota is known for its legendary reliability. The Highlander L is no exception, so you can expect it to last for years with proper maintenance. This can save you money over the long term, making it a smart investment.
• Spacious Interior: The three rows of seating and ample cargo space make the Highlander L perfect for families or anyone who needs extra room. Passengers will be comfortable, and there's plenty of space for luggage or gear.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander L offers good fuel economy for its class, helping you save money at the pump. This is especially beneficial for those who do a lot of driving.
• Safety Features: Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ provides a comprehensive suite of safety features, keeping you and your passengers safe on the road. These features add an extra layer of protection.
• Resale Value: Toyota vehicles, including the Highlander, tend to hold their value well over time. This means you'll get a good return on your investment when you decide to sell or trade it in.

Cons:

• Base Model Features: While the Highlander L has a lot to offer, it lacks some of the premium features found in higher trims. If you're looking for things like leather seats, a premium sound system, or advanced technology features, you might want to consider a higher trim level.
• Third-Row Space: While the third row is great to have, it's best suited for kids or smaller adults. If you regularly need to transport adults in the third row, it might feel a bit cramped.
• Infotainment System: Although functional, the base infotainment system might not be as advanced or feature-rich as those found in some competitors. If technology is a top priority for you, you may want to compare it with other vehicles.
• Price: While the Highlander L is the most affordable trim, its price might still be a little higher than some of its competitors. However, the value it provides might justify the higher price.

Compared to the Competition

How does the 2022 Toyota Highlander L stack up against its rivals? The mid-size SUV segment is incredibly competitive, with a lot of great options to choose from. Let's compare the Highlander L to a few of its main competitors.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is another popular choice in the mid-size SUV segment. The Pilot offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a strong reputation for reliability, similar to the Highlander. However, the Highlander L often has a slight edge in fuel efficiency and resale value. The Pilot might offer more available features in some of the higher trims, but the Highlander L provides a solid foundation with its entry-level offering. Both are great options for families. The decision often comes down to personal preference.

Hyundai Palisade/Kia Telluride

The Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride are both known for their stylish designs, spacious interiors, and long list of features. They often offer a more upscale experience than the Highlander L, with more premium materials and advanced technology. The Palisade and Telluride usually have a lower starting price point. However, Toyota's reputation for reliability and resale value often gives the Highlander an advantage in the long run. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, the Palisade or Telluride might be worth considering. The Highlander L will still give you a strong value proposition.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer has been a mainstay in the SUV market for many years. It offers a powerful engine, a sporty driving experience, and a wide range of available features. The Explorer may be able to offer more performance. But the Highlander L typically shines in terms of reliability and fuel efficiency. The Explorer's interior isn't as user-friendly as the Highlander. The Explorer can be a great option. It just depends on what your priorities are. It's a matter of preference which SUV you like best.

Should You Buy the 2022 Toyota Highlander L?

So, after all of that, should you buy the 2022 Toyota Highlander L? That depends on your needs and priorities, guys! If you're looking for a reliable, spacious, and fuel-efficient SUV that's perfect for families, then the Highlander L is definitely worth considering. It offers a great balance of practicality, comfort, and value. The Highlander L is a solid choice. It gives you a great bang for your buck.

Here's who the Highlander L is a great fit for:

• Families: With its three rows of seating and ample cargo space, the Highlander L is perfect for families who need room to carry passengers and gear.
• Value Seekers: If you're looking for a reliable and well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank, the Highlander L offers excellent value for its price.
• Those Who Prioritize Reliability: Toyota's reputation for reliability is legendary, and the Highlander L is no exception. If you want a vehicle that will last for years to come, the Highlander L is a great choice.
• Commuters: The Highlander L's good fuel economy makes it a great choice for those who do a lot of driving. This helps to reduce fuel costs over time.

However, it might not be the best choice if:

• You Want Premium Features: If you're looking for a luxury experience with leather seats and a premium sound system, you might want to consider a higher trim level or a different vehicle.
• You Need More Third-Row Space: If you regularly need to transport adults in the third row, the Highlander L might feel a bit cramped. Other options might provide more space in the third row.
• You Want a Sporty Driving Experience: If you're looking for a more engaging driving experience, other SUVs might offer better performance and handling.

Overall, the 2022 Toyota Highlander L is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot to like. It's reliable, spacious, fuel-efficient, and packed with safety features. It's a great choice for families and anyone who values practicality and value. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, the Highlander L should definitely be on your radar. Go take it for a test drive and see if it's the right fit for you!