2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE (Natl)
2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE (Natl) REVIEW
The 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE is a versatile midsize SUV that has been a favorite among families and adventurers alike. With its robust engine, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior, this vehicle offers a well-rounded package that appeals to a wide range of drivers. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the mechanical features, exterior design, entertainment options, interior comfort, and safety aspects of this popular model. Whether you’re exploring Ames car dealerships or browsing for cars for sale, the Highlander XLE is worth considering for its reliability and performance.
Find out about the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE (Natl) for sale here in our Ames Car Dealership Inventory. Also be sure to check out our 2017 Ford Taurus Limited FWD and 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4WD 4dr Sport!
Mechanical Excellence
At the heart of the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE is a powerful 3.5L V6 DOHC 24-Valve engine equipped with Dual VVT-i technology. This engine is designed to deliver an impressive balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and long road trips. The 6-speed automatic transmission with Overdrive ensures smooth shifts and optimal performance, while the sequential shift mode adds a level of control that driving enthusiasts will appreciate. Additionally, the transmission features snow mode, which enhances traction in slippery conditions, providing drivers with added confidence in challenging weather.
The 4.154 axle ratio contributes to the vehicle’s overall performance, allowing for quick acceleration and steady cruising at highway speeds. The Highlander is built with a GVWR of 6,000 lbs, making it capable of handling a significant amount of cargo or towing needs. The transmission is also equipped with an oil cooler, which helps maintain the longevity and efficiency of the vehicle’s drivetrain, especially under heavy loads or in hot climates.
For those exploring car dealerships near me and looking for a vehicle with reliable all-wheel-drive capability, the Highlander XLE stands out with its full-time AWD system. This feature provides excellent traction and stability on various road surfaces, from dry pavement to wet or snowy conditions. The gas-pressurized shock absorbers, along with front and rear anti-roll bars, ensure a smooth and controlled ride, minimizing body roll during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. The electric power-assist speed-sensing steering further enhances the driving experience, offering precise control and ease of handling.
The Highlander’s suspension system is designed with a strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension, both with coil springs. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining the vehicle’s composure over rough or uneven terrain. The 19.2-gallon fuel tank offers a decent range, allowing for fewer stops during long trips, while the single stainless steel exhaust adds to the durability and low maintenance costs of the vehicle. The permanent locking hubs and hill descent control are features that adventurous drivers will appreciate when navigating challenging terrains.
Exterior Design and Features
The 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that is both functional and attractive. The 18-inch split 5-spoke machined-face alloy wheels add a touch of sophistication to the vehicle’s appearance while ensuring a sturdy and reliable foundation. The P245/60R18 105S AS tires are designed for all-season use, providing good traction in various weather conditions.
The Highlander’s exterior is finished with a clear coat of paint that enhances its appearance and protects the body from the elements. The express open/close sliding and tilting glass sunroof with a sunshade allows for an open-air experience, making the cabin feel more spacious and airy. The body-colored front and rear bumpers, along with black wheel well trim and chrome side window trim, create a cohesive and polished look. The body-colored door handles and power-heated side mirrors with manual folding and turn signal indicators add to the vehicle’s overall appeal and functionality.
One of the standout features of the Highlander’s exterior is the flip-up rear window with a fixed interval wiper and defroster. This design allows for easy access to the rear cargo area without having to open the entire liftgate, which is especially convenient in tight parking spaces or when loading small items. The deep-tinted glass provides privacy for passengers and helps reduce glare from the sun, making for a more comfortable ride. The variable intermittent wipers with heated wiper park ensure clear visibility in rainy or snowy conditions, while the fully galvanized steel panels contribute to the vehicle’s durability and resistance to rust.
The Highlander XLE also comes equipped with a lip spoiler, adding a sporty touch to the rear of the vehicle. The black grille with chrome surround and splash guards enhances the vehicle’s rugged look while providing protection from dirt and debris. The roof rack rails offer additional cargo-carrying options, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and need extra space for gear. The auto on/off projector beam halogen daytime running headlamps with delay-off, along with front fog lamps, ensure optimal visibility in all driving conditions, enhancing safety during nighttime or inclement weather.
Entertainment and Technology
Inside the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE, you’ll find a host of entertainment and technology features designed to keep passengers connected and entertained. The Entune Premium Audio system with Navigation and App Suite is at the heart of the vehicle’s infotainment system. This system includes an 8-inch high-resolution touch-screen with a split-screen display, allowing for easy access to multiple functions simultaneously. Whether you’re searching for Ames car dealers or streaming your favorite music, the Entune system makes it simple and intuitive.
The audio system supports a variety of formats, including AM/FM, CD, MP3/WMA playback, and SiriusXM Radio, which comes with a 3-month complimentary trial. The system also includes HD Radio, providing crystal-clear audio quality and additional features like predictive traffic and Doppler weather overlay. The AM/FM cache radio allows you to pause and rewind live radio broadcasts, while the Gracenotes album cover art feature adds a visually appealing element to your music experience.
For those who frequently use their phones while driving, the Entune system offers advanced voice recognition, hands-free phone capability, phone book access, and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology. The intelligent touch controls and steering wheel controls make it easy to adjust settings without taking your hands off the wheel, enhancing safety and convenience.
The vehicle also features a window grid diversity antenna, which helps improve radio reception, ensuring that you stay connected even in remote areas. Whether you’re on a cross-country road trip or just running errands around town, the entertainment and technology features in the Highlander XLE make every journey more enjoyable.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Step inside the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE, and you’ll immediately notice the attention to detail in the design and materials used throughout the cabin. The driver and passenger seats are designed for comfort and support, making long drives more pleasant. Both seats are heated, with the driver’s seat featuring an 8-way power adjustment and lumbar support. The passenger seat is also adjustable, ensuring that both front occupants can find their ideal seating position.
The manual tilt/telescoping steering column allows for easy adjustment of the steering wheel to suit your driving preferences. The leather/metal-look steering wheel adds a touch of luxury, while the front and rear cupholders provide convenient storage for drinks on the go. The Highlander XLE is equipped with three 12V DC power outlets, allowing passengers to charge their devices during the trip. Additionally, a 120V AC power outlet is available for larger electronics, making it easy to stay connected wherever you go.
For those interested in used cars for sale Ames, the Highlander’s interior features like the valet function, garage door transmitter, and cruise control with steering wheel controls add to its overall appeal. The HVAC system includes underseat ducts and headliner/pillar ducts, ensuring that all passengers stay comfortable regardless of the outside temperature. The locking glove box provides secure storage for valuables, while the driver footrest adds to the overall comfort of the driving experience.
The interior trim of the Highlander XLE includes metal-look instrument panel inserts, metal-look door panel inserts, and chrome/metal-look interior accents, creating a cohesive and stylish cabin environment. The day-night auto-dimming rearview mirror reduces glare from headlights behind you, while the driver and passenger visor vanity mirrors with illumination add convenience when checking your appearance. The full floor console with covered storage, mini overhead console with storage, and conversation mirror provide additional functionality and ease of use.
The Highlander’s interior lighting is thoughtfully designed with front and rear map lights, fade-to-off interior lighting, and cargo space lights. The full carpet floor covering and carpet floor trim add a touch of luxury to the cabin, while the trunk/hatch auto-latch ensures that the rear cargo area is securely closed. The instrument panel bin, driver/passenger and rear door bins, and seatback storage pockets provide ample storage options for personal items.
The seats are finished with leatherette back material, offering a combination of durability and comfort. The rear seats are manually adjustable, allowing passengers to find their preferred seating position. The front center armrest adds to the overall comfort of the cabin, while the air filtration system helps maintain a clean and fresh environment inside the vehicle.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is a top priority in the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE, and the vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features designed to protect all occupants. The side impact beams provide additional protection in the event of a collision, while the dual-stage driver and passenger seat-mounted side airbags offer targeted protection for the upper body.
The Highlander is also equipped with dual-stage driver and passenger front airbags, curtain airbags for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd rows, and an airbag occupancy sensor, ensuring that all passengers are protected in the event of an accident. The driver knee airbag and passenger cushion front airbag provide additional protection for the lower body, reducing the risk of injury in a collision.
For families with young children, the rear child safety locks offer peace of mind, ensuring that the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside while the vehicle is in motion. The outboard front lap and shoulder safety belts, including the rear center 3-point belt, feature height adjusters and pretensioners, ensuring that all occupants are securely restrained in the event of an accident.
The Highlander XLE also comes equipped with a back-up camera, making it easier to navigate in tight parking spaces or when reversing. The low tire pressure warning system alerts you when a tire is underinflated, helping to prevent accidents caused by tire blowouts or loss of control. The hill descent control and hill hold control features provide additional safety when driving on steep inclines, ensuring that the vehicle maintains a steady speed and doesn’t roll back when starting on a hill.
Overall, the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE is a well-rounded vehicle that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and safety features that make it a great choice for families, adventurers, and those seeking used cars for sale in Ames. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Highlander XLE provides the confidence and capability to handle a variety of driving conditions.
The 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE is a versatile and reliable midsize SUV that offers a well-rounded package of performance, comfort, and safety features. Its powerful V6 engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and robust suspension make it capable of handling a variety of driving conditions, while its comfortable interior and advanced technology features ensure that all passengers stay connected and entertained. For those searching for used cars for sale, the Highlander XLE is a vehicle that stands out in its class.
If you’re in the market for a reliable and capable midsize SUV, consider visiting Ames car dealerships to test drive the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE. With its impressive list of features and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, this vehicle is sure to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re planning a family road trip or simply need a dependable vehicle for daily commuting, the Highlander XLE offers the performance, comfort, and safety you need. Find out about the 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE (Natl) for sale here in our Ames Car Dealership Inventory. Also be sure to check out our 2017 Ford Taurus Limited FWD and 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4WD 4dr Sport!