Toyota Spices Up Hybrid Highlander With New Bronze Edition

There are many cars out there worthy of being called art. A Gulf-liveried McLaren is one and almost any Pagani special edition can be another. But the Toyota Highlander is not one of those vehicles. It's not that it's a bad vehicle or particularly ugly - although it does benefit from sportier styling characteristics - it's just not an especially pretty SUV to start with. Nevertheless, Toyota has seen fit to introduce a special edition of the Highlander Hybrid, simply called the Bronze Edition. It boasts "unique styling and premium features to inspire a turned head by any curious onlooker." We're not sure who would be inspired by a Highlander with bronze wheels, or in what way, but let's get back to the vehicle.

The Bronze Edition is available for both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions of the hybrid SUV only - the regular gasoline model doesn't qualify. This version of the vehicle is being offered in either Cement (an exclusive color for the Bronze Edition), or Wind Chill Pearl, a new-for-2022 hue. As is obvious, 18-inch wheels finished in bronze are included too, as are bronze accents on the illuminated door sills. Inside, bronze stitching contrasts with "mid-century modern-inspired SofTex-trimmed seats" with fabric inserts. Unique floor and cargo mats with a special bronze logo feature too, but what does this cost and where in the lineup does it belong?

Toyota hasn't said when it will be available or what exactly it will cost, only that it will go on sale later this year and be priced between the Hybrid XLE and Hybrid Limited trims. That means you should expect an asking price of between $41,000 and $45,000. It also means that you'll get a hands-free power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, a digital rearview mirror, ambient lighting, LED running lights, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory. Finally, the Bronze Edition adds height and tilt adjustment to the power passenger seat, a feature that will be standard on 2022 XLE and higher models. That's all very impressive but please, don't call this art.