The Toyota Highlander, also known as the Toyota Kluger, is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by Toyota since 2000. It was introduced at the New York International Auto Show in April 2000 and became available in late 2000 in Japan and in North America by January 2001. The Highlander was among the first car-based mid-size SUVs or crossovers produced by Toyota.

Key Points:
1. Announced in 2000: The Toyota Highlander was revealed at the New York International Auto Show in April 2000.
2. Market Arrival: The Highlander entered the Japanese market in late 2000 and reached North America by January 2001.
3. Mid-Size Crossover: As a mid-size crossover SUV, the Highlander provides three-row seating for passengers.
4. Best-Selling SUV: It quickly became Toyota’s top-selling SUV, though it was later surpassed by the RAV4 in 2006.
5. Toyota Kluger: In Japan, the first-generation model was known as the Kluger and was offered through the Toyota Netz dealership network.
6. Trim Line Name: The Kluger nameplate is also used in Australia due to the trademarked name “Highlander” belonging to Hyundai.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander/Kluger is a popular mid-size crossover SUV known for its three-row seating, car-like driving dynamics, and success in the SUV market. It symbolizes Toyota’s early venture into the car-based mid-size SUV segment

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