Toyota Highlander

• The 2.5-litre hybrid engine produces 240 hp of power combined, which is enough for normal driving, highway merging, and climbing grades. Acceleration isn't aggressive, but it's adequate. The engine pairs with an electric motor for the hybrid system, working seamlessly through the electronically controlled CVT transmission.

• Fuel economy is around 20.7 km/l for the front-wheel drive and 20.1 km/l for the all-wheel drive version. That's genuinely good for a seven-seater in this size class. Highway efficiency could be slightly better. 

• The AWD E-Four system uses electric motors for rear-wheel assist, providing grip without sacrificing efficiency like traditional mechanical all-wheel drive, and it appears to be innovative engineering. Trail Mode on the AWD version handles light rough terrain confidently, but definitely not serious off-roading, but enough for the irregular surfaces you encounter occasionally.

• Body roll in corners is noticeable but controlled. This isn't a sports SUV, and you won’t feel it either; its USP is dependability and trustworthy performance.  

• The ride quality is what matters here. Long highway drives leave passengers comfortable, and kids in the third row don't feel neglected. The automatic climate control front and rear keep everyone satisfied. That's the whole point of this SUV.

Some compromises:

• The hybrid CVT transmission is smooth, but some drivers miss the feel of traditional gears. Acceleration is leisurely if you're used to turbocharged engines.

• Parking this 4.95-meter vehicle in extremely tight spots requires care. The cameras help, but urban parking still demands attention.

• The third row is spacious for children but cramped for extended trips with adults. It's there for occasional passengers, not daily use.

• The E-Four all-wheel drive system enhances confidence in rain or light snow, though Saudi drivers rarely encounter such conditions. Trail Mode on AWD versions handles dirt roads competently if you decide to venture out. 

• The suspension is well-tuned to take care of all types of Saudi road conditions, and keep the cabin easy and comfy. The mix of smooth highways and rougher back roads, the Highlander handles both with composure. Passengers in the third row don't feel bounced around.

• Wind and road noise are managed well; nothing to really be concerned about, it is well taken care of. Mostly, the cabin stays reasonably quiet at highway speeds, and the AC keeps temperatures so that you hardly wish to go out.

• Cornering is stable. The electronic stability systems work effectively without being intrusive. The vehicle tracks straight on highways without constant steering correction. Long drives mean less driver fatigue.

• In the city, it surprises drivers expecting something sluggish, and the hybrid system responds immediately when needed. The steering is responsive, and so driving through traffic or parking is a breeze, aided by cameras and sensors.

• Handling isn't sporty, but it's composed, something families value more. The SUV never feels unstable or scary, and that composure is exactly what families want.

Some trade-offs:

• The CVT transmission is smooth but lacks the engine-braking feel of traditional automatics when downhill driving. Some drivers miss that feedback.
• If you're chasing corners or testing handling limits, the Highlander doesn't entertain. It focuses more on passenger comfort over driving engagement, which is correct for this vehicle.

• The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on the Limited trim is crisp and customizable. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto work reliably and the navigation is built in or accessible through your phone.

• The JBL audio system with 11 speakers on Limited trim has high-quality audio sound with clear music sound, without overwhelming bass, you can enjoy music, podcasts and also have phone calls with comfort. On the lower trims get six speakers that are adequate for daily listening.

• Seating uses fabric on LE and XLE trims, with leather available on Limited. The power-adjustable seats on the Limited have memory function and eight-way adjustment. Front seat ventilation keeps you cool in Saudi heat. Heated seats mean winter morning comfort as well.

• All three rows have automatic climate control, front and rear. The rear zone controls its own temperature, and for a 7-seater capacity, this is quite useful.

• Cabin storage is practical with cup holders, door pockets, glovebox and centre console space. As the SUV is also a family favourite, they need a real one. For connectivity, there are four USB-C ports (two front, two rear), which means everyone can charge devices. The wireless charger on GLE and Limited trims handles phones.

• The panoramic moon roof on GLE and Limited trims brings natural light and makes the cabin feel larger. The power back door with kick sensor opens automatically when you stand near the rear bumper with the key.

• The head-up display on Limited trim projects speed and navigation onto the windshield. Highway driving becomes less tiring when key information is visible without looking down.

• Boot size is 771 litres with all three rows in place, and after folding the third row, you get 1,641 litres. Fold the second row too, and it becomes 2,820 litres.

Honest impression:

• The Highlander's interior feels like it's designed by people who actually have families. 
• At first impression, you know nothing feels wasted or pretentious, and the quality is real without being premium-brand expensive. Materials are durable. 
• The interior layout is practical, not a highly luxurious SUV, but it's well-executed, perfect for families.

• A total of 8 airbags cover the front driver and passenger, front knee airbags, side airbags for the front and second row, and curtain airbags for all three rows. That's extensive coverage for seven passengers.

• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is standard across the range. The Pre-Collision System monitors the road ahead using radar and a camera. If the collision risk is high, it alerts you. If danger is extreme, it automatically breaks. 

• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains distance from traffic ahead. When traffic stops, the vehicle stops. When traffic resumes, it follows automatically. On long highway drives in Saudi traffic, this reduces fatigue significantly.

• Lane Departure Alert warns if you drift without signalling. Lane Tracing Assist provides steering input to keep you centred. Highway driving becomes safer with less effort.

• Blind Spot Monitor helps when you’re changing lanes, and alerts when necessary if you don’t see a car in your view.

What's clear:

• For Toyota, safety is paramount, and this is quite visible in the Highlander, as every features and systems work as intended.

• The Japanese automaker ensures to prevent accidents, not just mitigate impact. It ensures families feel genuinely safer in the SUV.