2008 Toyota Highlander Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.56/5 Average
233 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Toyota's midsize SUV is fully redesigned for 2008. Significantly larger than the original, the 2008 Highlander features a standard V6 engine and a habitable third-row seat.

Pros:
  • Powerful and fuel-efficient V6, easy to maneuver for its size, user-friendly cabin design with reconfigurable second-row seats and a fully usable third row.
Cons:
  • Third-row seat folds as a single unit rather than in 50/50 sections.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 233.00
  • The Best Vehicle Available for 2008 - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    This is my first Toyota and what a wonderful experience. I am a 48 year old grandmother who still needs a little fun in her life. This vehicle fits the bill of not too large and not too small. Perfect for taking my children to college, loading groceries and simply a blast to drive. Would highly recommend this car-based vehicle to everyone. Past loves have been Expeditions, minivans and a sport car. Best value and so much more. I appreciate the car more each day. Even my honda loving husband of 24 years enjoys driving it! I love the stares when I drive it!!

  • Good Choice - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    After researching a "family" vehicle purchase for over two months, I eventually decided on a used 2008 Toyota Highlander, 7 passenger - FWD V6. I test drove all the 2012 Dodge, Chevy, Ford alternatives. I decided on a used Highlander for the price point & TCO. No buyers remorse currently. On my first long trip I decided to test out MPGs. Half the trip I drove interstate, 75-80 MPH; MPG were between 20-21, I was disappointed. On my return trip I took an alternate route & drove 60-70 MPH; MPG were between 28-29, I was impressed. I chose a FWD in anticipation of better MPG. Power and performance of the V6 engine is great. If you can adjust your driving style, you can get 2012 MPG in a 2008.

  • The problem child in my driveway - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    My 2008 Highlander started making a severe sparkknock noise upon cold start. A trip to the dealer and they could not find anything. At 61000 miles the noise is still there and the check engine light comes on code P0017. Trip to dealer and they replace the spool valves for the VVT. problem still there. Dealer pulls engine replaces 4 cams, timing gears, and cam holders. Get car back still making noise. 2 weeks later ck eng lamp on P0017, along with p0301,303,305, and 300. Dealer said it was old codes. I knew better. dealer clears codes. Lamp on again this time p0017 & p0018. I called Toyota customer service. Dealer tells ,e that they cleaned the top eng internal problem has not ret now 85k

  • 08 Toyota Highlander, first 500 miles. - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I was very impressed with the 08 Highlander. The increase in size is just right for me. I was planning to buy a full size SUV but after driving the Highlander, I felt it was the better car for me. So far I have no complaints. The car runs flawlessly and rides very comfortably. I am particularly impressed with the mileage. I am getting between 19 and 21 mpg. I drive a combination of city and hwy. My trips usually exceed 10 miles. This car is especially quiet, I hate a noisy car!! This factor along with Toyota quality and reliability played heavily in my purchasing decision. I came out of an 05 Avalon and the Highlander seems to be quieter than the Avalon.

  • safety should come first - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    My two year old V6 awd sport model Highlander with 30k HIGHWAY miles and now Im told I need new tires? I think a car costing over 38k plus would use a better and safer tire? Toyota states safety, well with these cheap TOYO tires they use I say they might want to revisit the tires they use on the Highlander. In March during our nasty rain storms here in MA. I hit a puddle and lost control on the highway did what i call a 160 even with AWD and traction on. I think the tires are failing and so soon. I love everything about this suv, and being my fourth SUV but my first Toyota. Ill be going back to my all american SUV where they use better and safer tires that gets more than 30K out of the

  • Great All-Purpose SUV - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Ive had my Highlander only a week but can tell already Im going to love it. Interior appointments and ergonomics are superb. Transmission is smooth however the downshifting at around 40MPH is a little noticeable. Braking fine. This car is quiet, by far the quietest SUV I tested. Ride is outstanding. Note this is not a sports car however. Seats are very comfortable. This is going to be fabulous family trip car. Cant wait for our first big trip. I wanted this car be be everything and it is: the comfy ride of a sedan, cargo space of a van, and style. Toyota has done it again. On my first gas up I got 22.5 MPG in mixed driving. Not bad. Great car - what I have always wanted!

  • Lovin it - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    The ride and noise comfort is outstanding for an SUV, close to our 08 Camry. It is extremely spacious for 4 adults and the third row seat is very functional. My gas mileage is averaging 21 MPG with little expressway driving. The AWD technology is superior, completely automatic, and provides a reassuring driving experience for all conditions. I have a boat that I tow and the V6 provides plenty of power and the brakes are fantastic. Im very particular about my vehicles and Im completely satisfied and would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

  • You Cant Go Wrong with 08 Highlander - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I test drove an HL in 06 and liked it but decided to wait. When I saw the pics for the 08 I knew it was time. What an improvement! I have had my HL for 3mo now. I wanted luxury with utility and the Limited fits the bill perfectly. The EPA ratings seem to be accurate. Im getting 22 mixed and 27 hwy @<65mph and 25 hwy @>70mph. The seats are very comfortable at first, but start to feel hard after a couple of hours on long trips. People have complained about the head rest, I find their position to be perfect and comfortable.

  • This SUV rocks! - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    When I first saw this SUV, I knew it was the one for me.This SUV is hands down the most attractive SUV in its class, with its streamlined appearance that resembles luxury SUVs such as the Cayenne or the VW Toureg, but with the low maintenance costs, reliability and resale value of Toyota. The amount of passenger and cargo space in this SUV is amazing! I love to go on road trips and take friends along, and I know they will not be uncomfortable in the back seats.

  • Colorado - 2008 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    We converted from loyal Subaru fans to Toyota because we needed a bigger car and were not impressed with the Tribeca. So far the HL has been great. Good power in the mountains and no problem climbing I-70 in the winter. interior is quiet and dua climate is great for kids in back. Good storage for road trips and fun to drive. Dont feel like youre driving an SUV which we love.

Toyota Highlander Reviews By Year:
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