2005 Toyota Highlander Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.52/5 Average
193 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

New standard features this year include a roof rack with cross bars, remote keyless entry and a cargo cover. Standard on the Limited and optional on the base is a new windshield wiper de-icer grid.

Pros:
  • Seats up to seven, carlike ride and handling, smooth and powerful V6 engine, fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, lots of safety features.
Cons:
  • Limited towing and off-road ability, bland personality.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 193.00
  • Hi marks for Highlander - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Coming from a minivan to a Highlander has been the best experience in my short car ownership-life. I get much better mileage and havent sacrificed too much space. I have not experienced any problems with the Highlander, as opposed to my experience with the minivan (not a Toyota).

  • Safe, Solid vehicle - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    While in my Toyota Highlander, a person hit me from behind while I was at a complete stop. This person was traveling approximately 35-40 MPH according to the police officers who were shooting radar and witnessed the entire accident. Her car was totaled, my car had extensive rear end damage but the frame ended up being 100% in tact. The body shop that worked on my vehicle was completely impressed with the quality of the frame and safety of this vehicle. I am convinced if I had been in my previous SUV (Chevy Tahoe), I would not have been so lucky.

  • I like it more every day!!! - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I just traded my 2002 Camry SE V6 for my 4 cyl Highlander. At first I was concerned about not having sufficient power, but I have been pleasantly surprized by the acceleration. I find the seats comfortable and the visibility is excellent. My son has a 4 Runner and it rides like a buckboard compared to the Highlander. The ride is very similar to my Camry SE. There is an abundance of room for hauling passengers and cargo. Gas mileage has exceeded expectations and should only improve as the engine gets a few more miles on it. It handles very well and is considerably more stable in maneuvers than a Jeep Grand Cherokee that I tested. This is my third Toyota and I expect reliability to be great.

  • "Smooth Riding SUV" - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I went from a Toyota Solara to the Highlander and am still impressed! The ride for a SUV is awesome! It handles well and is very reliable. To top it all off, it looks great too! I almost bought a Lexus RX330 and am glad I did not waste my money! I got all on the Highlander and did not pay all the extra money! I highly recommend the Highlander! Thanks!

  • Highlander Great Buy - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    We purchased a Toyota Highlander the later end of 2004. We looked into several types of vehicles and decided to purchase a Toyota Highlander. The MPG is pretty good given that the vehicle is an SUV. It handles well and the interior is very easy to maintain. My family feels safe and comfortable in the vehicle.

  • They have finally done it - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Most reliable and comfortable car I have owned. Rides quietly and dependably.It serves both of my requirements as a passenger vehicle and as a functional carrier of luggage on extended trips.

  • Another Toyota - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I purchased a Toyota for one reason, I have to have a automobile that will run and not have mechanical problems. The biggest selling point for me is that the new Toyotas have timing chains (no more belts). This might seem strange to you but I have had three cars in the past die because of timing belt failure. The over-all quality of the highlander is A+, the exterior design is Ok, the comfort and performance is great and I would highly recomend this highlander to anyone who enjoys perfection.

  • Juds machine - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    This is and has been a great vehicle. My wife loves to drive it, I seldom get a chance to drive it. The only negative I can think of (and this is a stretch) is that on the doors of our car (cloth upholstery) Toyota has put fabric right up to the glass, this material is easy soiled, If you clean the windows, if you rest your arm on the window sill, if the dog stands in the window, dust settles there also. For being a four cylinder, the car performs well, and the four wheel drive is great.

  • Not A Bad Drive - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I bought this vehicle mainly because of an earlier family purchase of a Celica back in 1985 when my 2 brothers & I beat the heck out of it. This version however isnt exactly what I expected. First, the paint had chips at delivery, then one fog light was out & EVER since I owned it, the automatic shift isnt so fluid & the city gas mileage isnt near the "average" at all. A/C on a hot day just doesnt get cold enough! The car is indeed fun to drive but the drivers seat seems to tilt too forward almost making one feel like theyre falling off the seat. Having said all of these things, I still feel its a good, highly rated, vehicle.

  • Very nice vehicle - 2005 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I went with the FWD (didn’t think I needed AWD). I’m very happy with my purchase. The ride is comfortable and quiet, and while I may have been happy with the 4 cylinder I decided to go with the Limited V6 model (towing increase). The Highlander vs. Pilot decision was hard as both vehicles were neck and neck in areas I considered important (safety, reliability, and comfort - in that order). I believe there is better visibility in the Toyota. I also prefer the Highlanders "look" over the Pilot.

Toyota Highlander Reviews By Year:
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