I've got to call this one. I can't see the fit.
The Camry unibody being the same frame as the much larger, much different shaped Highlander?

What do they share in common, major parts wise? Given the sizes, it can't be the engine.

I'm not picking on you, it's just that I cannot picture anything related parts-wise in the vehicles.

From Autoweb.com :
"Highlander's car-like take on a traditionally truck-based form works well. Riding on the proven Camry chassis and the company's reputation for reliability, it should be a must-driver for mid-size 'ute intenders."

And from Baileycar.com :
"The Highlander, which is basically a tall Camry wagon that can be ordered with all-wheel drive, is intended for
customers who want a passenger-car ride and do not need heavy-duty off-road capability."

I wouldn't neccessarily call it a "must-driver" <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/nana.gif" alt="" />
Just another grocerie getter!

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Take them side-by-side and tell us which difference
you will see <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Wayne, you will be surprised how similar
they are <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

They re-cycled the platform in this sequence:

1. Camry donated platform to the Lexus crossover
2. Lexus crossover was simplified to develop the Highlander
for middle-income buyers.

So, Highlander is a grandchild of Camry ...

Regards,
Oleg

I just looked into the specs. All engines (I4 and V6)
and transmissions are the same.

Curb weights are not much different. Base Camry just 400lbs
lighter than base Highlander.

Oleg

Highlander. Seats 7. 2.4 liter engine 4-cyc engine standard...wow!

Length 184.6
Width: 71.9
Unloaded height (w/ & w/o rack) 66.5 (68.7)

Camry. Seats 5. 2.4 liter 4-cyc engine.
Overall length 189.2 (it's longer!)
Overall width 70.7
Overall height, unloaded 57.9

Highlander just looks much bigger with the boxy frame and bigger tires. With the additional size and wind resistance, I can't imagine how underpowered it is with the stock 4-cyc engine.

I wouldn't have believed it if you didn't point it out. It's an offroad vehicle, allright. Down a hill (not enough power to go up a hill when it's loaded).....off the cliff.....into the junkheap at the bottom....

It has a place, just not an off-road vehicle or on the CR list.

Just got the wife an 04 Highlander. Though not an off-roader that 4cyl engine is very peppy! I've got my Taco to go wheelin with. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />