After diligently researching and checking out other vehicles, I settled on the 2008 Highlander Limited because it has quite a few appealing features. A major feature is the choice for the consumer between a regular engine or a hybrid. I chose a regular engine because I believe hybrid technology is so brand new that any mechanical repairs might be a nightmare. The entire car is already filled with electrical and computer-run components that I didn’t want to add the experiment of a hybrid engine to the mix. This was just a personal choice and I feel an educated one because I used to own an automotive repair shop. The great features on the 2008 Toyota Highlander are endless. The 2008 models have significantly more room inside the passenger areas of the SUV and more cargo space. Let’s start under the hood. The engine is a 3.5 liter, 270 hp, V6 with quite a kick. Fuel efficiency for the regular gas engine AWD in listed at 17 city, 23 highway. My car is very close to this rating and the engine isn’t completely broken in. This V6 engine is a standard feature. Consumers have a choice between 4×2 or 4×4. We chose 4×4 because, quite frankly, they didn’t have a 4×2 on the lot. These SUVs were hopping off the Toyota car lots. Inside this crossover SUV is an absolute dream. The 2008 Highlander interior has seating for 7, standard 3rd row seating, and a removable second-row 40/20/40 section that converts to a console. This makes the center row seats much like the captains chairs in vans. The unused seat section or console is stored in a cubby under the front seat console. My kids love this feature and it’s assorted cubbies and cup holders. The driver and passenger seats are very comfortable and heated on the Limited model. Second and third row seats fold to allow for cargo. There are individual controls for driver and passenger climate control. There’s also an optional rear-seat climate control. Ton of cup holders for the front seats, including door cup holders and storage. The glove box is huge and front-seat center console can accommodate a large number of CDs and stuff. This car features some really incredible optional features. Toyota features an in-dash backup camera. This fish-eye camera allows you a complete view of the area behind your car. Optional features also include in-dash XM radio, navigation system, and Blue tooth capability. I have all of these features on my car and use them daily. I absolutely love it! There’s an optional power lift gate, with three possible opening features; under-the-dash, key pod, or a push-button inside the life gate for closing it. Toyota has also added a push button start feature that takes some getting used to as there are literally NO keys to this car, just a key pod.. As long as the keys are in the vehicle (like in a pocket or purse), the driver depresses the gas pedal, pushes the ignition button, and the car starts. I’m wondering when I’m going to lock myself out of the car! Toyota offers an optional remote start that I did not purchase. Finally, I did not have the entertainment system installed although an in-ceiling unit is available. I frankly didn’t want my view obstructed. However, this is not a problem with the Highlander specifically, just a personal choice. I believe a sunroof cannot be installed if you choose the entertainment system. The sunroof is electrical, just like everything else. Across the board, this SUV is perfect. I will say again that I am a little worried at the abundance of electrical components in the car. But I guess that is what happens when someone hasn’t bought a new car in 10 years. Because of this unknown and because this car contains so many features for comfort and convenience, I’m giving it an 8 of 10 ranking. Toyota put together a winner with the 2008 Highlander. It really has everything to make everybody in the family travel in comfort and style. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil