someone correct me if I'm wrong but IIRc, while the AC compressor shuts off, the fan still is on and so it will continue to blow relatively cool air for the minute or two that you are at a light

 

Correct. ....

 

Allegedly there is a redesigned wheel lineup coming - it was referenced in the 2017 materials but not shown in New York. Toyota should be releasing more info in the next few weeks as production of the '17 Highlander should start in June or July.

 

This is the wheel from the SE. From a distance, you don't see the black part of the pillars but they are definitely there close-up. I wonder what this looks like when it gets a little dirty.

 

and it wont shut off if it needs AC on either :-)

 

that's a great looking rim and i assume the black parts are actually functional too in improving aero performance and thus helping fuel economy?

 

^^ I believe so. That is why on electric cars, they usually try to have as little spokes as possible. If it was attractive, they would have a rim with no spokes.

 

I spent part of today looking at 2016 Highlanders and Siennas as we look to replace our RX. I was highly impressed with the Highlander today and the 2017 changes can only make it better.

 

Went ahead and picked up a 16 Highlander hybrid this week. This thing is loaded and we're loving it so far.

 

Awesome choice. I would take one over the RX.

Love how it has rear overhead vents, easy to use HVAC.

Congratulations.

 

Why does the RX only have two vents and no climate controls (other than optional heated outboard seats)?? Unacceptable. Congrats on the Highlander, loaded to the gills and the Pano roof is

 

Thanks. We're very happy so far.

I loved our RX, but the rear seat accommodations in the Highlander are top notch. We are really enjoying it so far. My 4 year old daughter is blown away by the sunroof.

 

^ I'm sure he got a great deal on the 2016, dealers are way more willing to deal on this year's model to clear them out for the 2017's coming in during the next month or so.

Just curious, what is the gas mileage rated at? You'll have to report back in a few weeks to see if its close to or better than the EPA numbers. Also what's the tow rating with the hybrid? Is it higher or lower than the conventional V6 model?

 

Actually, no, they're still not budging much on the 16s. They only had one on the lot, and demand is high. They had to get ours on a dealer trade. Negotiations were very tough, I had to walk away twice, and it took several days. I figure it'll be even harder on the 17s.

The gas only AWD is rated at 18 city, 24 highway. The AWD hybrid is rated at 27 city, 28 highway. We're still on our first tank, just shy of 400 miles (took a weekend trip to the ocean). It was almost all highway. We are at 29.2 mpg so far, and I haven't even been trying, so I am very impressed. I've driven many hybrids and this is the first one I've enjoyed.

 

oh Bit, that's an odd edit you did on my post. Not sure why you deleted my RX comments and put your own question in my post.

I opted for the 16 because I knew negotiations on the 17s would be even tougher than the 16s, and since we got the hybrid, we weren't going to get the 2GR-FKS and 8 speed offered in the 17s anyway. Our RX lease was up and we didn't have a desire to extend the RX lease to get a 17.