The 2008 Toyota Highlander comes in base, Sport and Limited trim levels, each with front- or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The two Hybrids are base and Limited, and both are offered only with all-wheel drive.

Highlander sits in the center of Toyota’s three-pronged midsize SUV lineup. It offers more stylishness than either the rugged 4Runner or the retro-looking FJ Cruiser. Both of those are truck-based platforms, with rugged suspensions and low-range transfer cases making them highly capable off road. The Highlander however, is a crossover — based on the Camry and Avalon sedan platform. Highlander’s all-wheel-drive systems are designed more for wet, slippery pavement and wintry conditions, not rock climbing or serious off-road endeavors.

Walkaround: Measuring 188.4 inches overall, the 2008 Highlander is 3.8 inches longer, 3.3 inches wider and 3.8 inches taller, while the wheelbase has been extended from 106.9 to 109.8 inches, adding some 300 pounds of weight. But its increased size — about the same size as the Honda Pilot — positions the 2008 Highlander right in the heart of the mid-size SUV market. But with 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space it’s roomier inside than all but a handful of competitors in this overcrowded market segment.

The design of the Highlander has evolved into a cleaner and more stylish, yet also more aggressive look than previous models. It’s pronounced wheel arches — especially when filled with the available 19-inch alloy wheels — accentuate the wider stance, giving it a more muscular appearance than the previous-generation.

Hybrid models are differentiated by blue-tinted lighting, a special grille, and its own unique alloy wheels.

Interior: As usual, fit and finish are excellent everywhere you look. The various controls are easy to find, and they move with Toyota/Lexus precision. All but the base model have a 3.5-inch screen that displays trip computer and climate control information, as well as the image from the rear backup camera, but the picture is hard to see.

The Hybrids get Toyota’s Smart Entry System that includes keyless entry and starting, a 3.5-inch multifunction display screen including a rear backup camera, clock, tire-pressure display, A/C readout, and outside temperature and trip computer information, in addition to all the hybrid-related features. Also, base Hybrids come standard with two rows of seats — the third is optional.

Options include leather upholstery, navigation system, front dual-zone climate control, automatic rear air conditioning, heated front seats, upgraded, nine-speaker JBL audio, rear DVD entertainment, hands-free Bluetooth cell phone link, sunroof, power rear tailgate, and a towing package giving the Highlander a 5,000-pound tow rating.

Hybrid models also feature some exclusive interior touches — such as the gauges being trimmed in blue instead of red, and a power meter replacing the tach. Displayed either on the multifunction or navigation screen are Consumption and Energy Monitor information.

Safety features on all models include dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags for thorax protection, side curtain airbags that cover all three seating rows, a driver’s knee airbag, active front headrests, tire-pressure monitor, antilock brakes, traction control, antiskid control, and hill-start assist.

Under The Hood: The old four-cylinder powerplant is gone, and the base V6 upgraded. The standard 3.5-liter V6 is larger and dramatically more powerful than previously. It’s rated at 270 horses — an increase of 55 horsepower — and fuel economy is improved slightly as well. The V6, and the 5-speed automatic it’s married to, are smooth as silk. The automatic downshifts seamlessly when needed to deliver abundant passing power. Front-wheel-drive Highlanders are EPA-rated at 18/City and 24 mpg/Highway. All-wheel drive models are rated at 17/23 mpg.

Hybrids keep the same, reliable 270-hp gas/electric power train as the 2005-07 models, that delivers smooth and plentiful power. The hybrid powertrain is rated at 27/25 mpg City/Highway. Hill descent control is standard on all AWD models.

Behind The Wheel: I’ve driven both the hybrid and gas versions of the 2008 Highlander, and was impressed with both. Toyota has obviously chosen to focus more on ride than handling. The Highlander offers ride quality that is luxuriously smooth and very quiet — especially for a vehicle this physical size. The suspension smoothes out all but the most jolting bumps, although highway driving has a bit of cushiony feel until you get used to it.

Steering is light, but somewhat slow. There’s noticeable body lean in cornering and braking, and I wouldn’t call it exactly nimble. But standard traction control and electronic stability control all help. The Sport version and the Hybrids do have a firmer ride and slightly more road feel.

I found the brakes a bit soft, but with great stopping power thanks to standard brake assist and electronic brake force distribution.

Whines: The headliner, which looks like a cardboard egg carton, is out of place with the rest of the stylishness. The navigation system — a spendy option — is almost necessary to see the backup camera image. But the display also absorbs some of the audio controls, adding an extra step or two when changing stations.

Bottom Line: The all-new 2008 Toyota Highlander is a luxuriously riding, easy to enjoy, family-style vehicle. It offers more room and more power than previous models without giving up fuel economy. Highlander Hybrid models offer excellent fuel economy, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, along with extremely low emissions. Add Toyota’s reputation for reliability and resale value, and the 2008 Highlander fits the Northwest lifestyle like a glove.