Overview & Reviews

A pioneering vehicle in many ways, the Toyota Highlander was one of the first midsize crossover SUVs to be sold in America when it debuted in 2001. With its car-based unibody design, the original Highlander provided many benefits over Toyota's more traditional SUVs, including better handling, higher fuel mileage, a quieter cabin, improved crashworthiness and easier entry and exit for passengers.

Since then, the Toyota Highlander has gone on to become one of the most popular crossovers available, appealing to shoppers who want a vehicle with SUV styling, plenty of versatility for hauling cargo and a third-row seat. The third-generation Highlander has the most seating capacity, while the second generation has the most rear cargo space. That said, a Highlander of any vintage is one of the better values out there for those seeking a comfortable, easy-to-drive vehicle that can carry a fair amount of cargo and passengers and handle snow and ice during the winter months while still delivering decent fuel economy.

Current Toyota Highlander
Redesigned for 2014, the current Toyota Highlander is a few inches longer than the previous-generation model and sports notably more aggressive styling. The cabin has also been modernized: Many of the cabin's previously hard plastic surfaces are now covered with softer materials, and the electronics are more up to date.

The Highlander is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Base front-drive models come with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine making 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. All other Highlanders have an impressively efficient 3.5-liter V6 good for 270 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard with either engine. There is also a Toyota Highlander Hybrid that delivers considerably better fuel economy. It is covered in a separate review.

Toyota Highlander shoppers can choose among four trim levels: LE, LE Plus, XLE and Limited. Highlights of the base LE include 18-inch wheels, a touchscreen display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and an iPod/USB interface. Moving up to the LE Plus gets you a flip-up rear window, a power liftgate, a power driver seat and tri-zone climate control. The XLE's perks include keyless ignition and entry, a sunroof, leather upholstery, a navigation system and Toyota's Entune suite of smartphone app-based services. The top-dog Limited sports 19-inch wheels, upgraded leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, second-row captain's chairs, ambient interior lighting and an upgraded audio system. Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, frontal collision warning/mitigation and lane-departure warning systems are also available on the Limited.

On the road, the Highlander's near-silent V6 engine is complemented by a liquid-smooth six-speed automatic transmission with the refinement you might expect in a Lexus. Acceleration is among the best in this class. Unless your budget will only allow the four-cylinder engine, the V6 is the way to go. Maximum passenger capacity is eight -- more than most other crossovers. The third-row seat is still really only suitable for children, but the second row slides and reclines, maximizing comfort. The interior looks and feels upscale and there are plenty of storage areas for your personal items. Overall, we highly recommend the Highlander if you're shopping for a large, three-row crossover SUV.

Used Toyota Highlander Models
The second-generation Toyota Highlander was produced from 2008-'13. It was significantly larger than the previous model in nearly every way, adding shoulder room, hiproom and legroom all around as well as additional cargo capacity.

This generation Highlander felt spry on the road and was easy to drive, with especially brisk acceleration coming from the V6 engine. We liked the quiet, roomy cabin that seated up to seven passengers. While the Highlander's third row was less spacious than those of some rivals, it was easy to reach thanks to a nifty 40/20/40-split second row with a removable center seat that facilitated walk-through access. Cargo space was also down compared to larger crossovers, but this Highlander should still be roomy enough for almost any family.

For 2008, the only available engine was a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6. In 2009 it was joined by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that made 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive were standard, and all-wheel drive was available with the V6.

Available trim levels, depending on the year, were base, Sport, SE, Plus and Limited. Standard equipment on the base Highlander included air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and the 40/20/40-split second row bench seat. The Sport trim level (2008-'10) added a more firmly tuned suspension, a rearview camera, a flip-up rear window in the liftgate and a power-adjustable driver seat.

For 2011, Toyota discontinued the Sport trim level and made most of that trim level's equipment standard on the SE (2010-'13). The SE also had a sunroof, heated seats, leather upholstery and an upgraded audio system. The Plus (2013 only) had similar equipment to the Sport. For the Limited, Toyota added 19-inch wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery and a front passenger seat. Major options for this Highlander included a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

If you're shopping for a second-generation model, take note that the 2008 through 2010 models had a less versatile third-row seat with a one-piece bench design rather than the 2010-'13 model's 50/50-split seat. For 2011, Toyota also mildly updated the Highlander's exterior styling.

The first-generation Toyota Highlander was produced from 2001-'07. It was powered by either a 155-hp four-cylinder engine or a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard. In 2004 the V6 was bumped up to 3.3 liters and 230 hp, and models so equipped received a five-speed automatic transmission, while four-cylinder models soldiered on with the four-speed unit (and 5 extra hp). Available trim levels were base, Sport and Limited.

Base models came equipped with a respectable amount of equipment, including air-conditioning, power accessories, cruise control and a CD player. The Sport trim spiced things up with 17-inch alloys, a sport-tuned suspension, foglights, a power driver seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. The Limited added heated outside mirrors, power front seats, a fold-flat third-row seat (as of 2004) and an upgraded JBL sound system. Popular options included leather seating, an in-dash CD changer, a towing package and -- on the Limited model only -- a navigation system.

Shoppers interested in a used Toyota Highlander might want to confine their search to 2004 models and newer, not just because of the power increase, but also because a third-row seat and rear DVD entertainment system were newly available, enabling the Highlander to remain competitive with the strengthening crop of midsize crossover SUVs. Other significant changes for '04 included the addition of stability control and a tire-pressure warning system as standard equipment, as well as newly optional side curtain airbags for the first and second rows (which became standard on '07 models).

User Reviews:

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  I WANTED TO LIKE IT, BUT JUST TOO SLOW - 2017 Toyota Highlander
  By cliff barber - September 3 - 2:04 pm

  not much power for passing (sluggish)

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  best car ever - 2008 Toyota Highlander
  By 1run131 - September 3 - 10:30 am

  This is the best, most versatile vehicle I have ever owned I have had it for a year and am still excited about it. We took it florida this summer 2,500 mis. rode great plenty of room (more than my old Expedition) averaged 25mpg for the trip. Took it skiing great in the snow and icy roads. I average BTW 20-22mpg around town. Bought the base model because it has all the features I need included. Couldnt ask for a better vehicle. I recommend it for anyone who needs something that isnt afraid to step up to the challenge. HIGHLANDER does it.

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  Perfect for Empty-Nesters - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By BBoomer - September 1 - 10:00 am

  After 1400 miles, 3 washings and one waxing, I have not found any imperfection in the build quality of this vehicle. Good all purpose vehicle for those of us who like the comfort of a car and the ability to haul materials for weekend projects. Predictable handling on interstates as well as gravel roads. Easy entry and exit for us boomers with stiff knees.

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  Cold Seats - 2007 Toyota Highlander
  By tom - August 31 - 4:06 am

  Altogether a great car. FWD gets us anywhere in Northern MI. Orig. Toyo tires were very, very bad - they would cause hydroplaning even in light rain. Ave miles are 20=21 mpg. Plenty of power seems like a v6. Worst problem is cold air gets in from the doors and causes very cold behinds on both sides. We installed lambswool seat covers but it did not help. Dont buy unless you have heated seats installed. Otherwise expect 5 months of cold behinds.

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  Not as reliable as Toyotas should be - 2008 Toyota Highlander
  By toyofan8 - August 29 - 6:12 am

  This SUV is nice and comfortable. A long time Toyota owner I was completely surprised by the constant issues. Rear window wiper motor, sunroof, NAV system had to be replaced. The lugs nuts are two piece shells and loose its cap each time you remove a lug nut. I forced the dealer to replace them at his cost every time he rotated the wheels. The tires cost about $1400 (poor choice and expensive) and regardless of the warranty they last only a mere 19K. The tire size is limited to two manufactures and thus the high price. Got stuck in snow and had to reverse the SUV to get out. Embarrassing to say the least for an SUV. Lastly, the traction control truly does not work, it slides everywhere.

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  Wonderful Road Trip Vehicle - 2006 Toyota Highlander
  By Gilbert Frey - August 28 - 4:02 pm

  Rides like a mid sized sedan. No blind-spots! Easy to get in and out. Outstanding tow vehicle for small camping trailer (Casita about 3000lbs). Finish holds up just great. Minimal maintenance so far. Put heavy duty struts on at 110000 miles. Heavy duty premium brakes and rotors at same mileage with serpentine belt and timing belt at same time. Flushed transmission and trans-axle at same mileage. Always used full synthetic oil. Wash monthly and as needed. Wax every 6 months. Vacuum weekly. Note we replaced the 2006 Highlander with a 2016 Highlander Limited Platinum in January 2016. Love it! Higher towing weight was primary reason for the change. GF

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  The Greatest - 2005 Toyota Highlander
  By Lee - August 27 - 3:26 pm

  Rides like a dream and handles as well. Much more comfortable than the Mercedes M-class that I owned. Will always buy a Toyota!

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  New Owner-Wierd Issues - 2003 Toyota Highlander
  By mjc333 - August 26 - 7:47 am

  I just purchased the Toyota Highlander 2003 and upon purchasing the vehicle I was very happy. The check engine light came on shortly after purchase and apparently the cause is a bad "ECM" board in the SUV. I am not sure if this is common but I have experienced this problem. I love the vehicle otherwise and plan on driving it for a while. Currently at 82K hope it lasts to 200K without major repairs.

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  let it snow - 2005 Toyota Highlander
  By robert - August 26 - 1:00 am

  We have had our Higlander for 7 mos and have had 0 issues. Love the solid handling, strong engine, and good breaking for its weight. AWD + Traction control + stability control make it the best vehicle I have ever driven in snow. Even if I try in an empty parking lot, I can not get the back end to kick out. The Navigation system is easy to use and has been accurate 98% of the time. Interior is well designed and 2nd row seating is very comfortable on long trips. There are a few rattles which is dissapointing. My 02 Solara that I traded in had better interior quality and softer plastics.

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  spinebuster start stop - 2017 Toyota Highlander
  By JC - August 24 - 10:28 am

  OK so im in the market for an suv with 6-7 seat i saw that the new highlander came out and decided to test drive, this is by the worst car i have test drove. Let me start off when i left the lot to the main street i tried to punch it because it was and entrance to a highway and the car hesitate so bad its like it doesnt have the power my foot demand and it gets stuck in gear for long period of time it is as bad as the first version of nissan cvt transmission, from 1st to 2nd gear the car went to 3500 rpm and was there for a good 4 sec untill it finally changed to second this was the same thing from second to third and it shifted hard as if the transmission was slipping or something. As you doing a rolling stop and try to step on the gas there is a bad delay for the car to respond , its confused on what gear to go into and so one time it went to a higher gear and almost stalled. this is as bad as the hyundai santa fe issues if not worse, another thing i hated was the start and stop i know its new technology yea it saves fuel but its going to be harder on the engine and starter, but for toyota i give them an F for this system because as soon as you step off the gas it jerk the living **** out of you, i thought someone hit us or something and the dealer guy was like thats the new system i just drove back and left cause that car it just horrible. Some of you may think i dont know what im talking about but im a drag racer and only feel a car jerk like that either when some one hits you or when i gas it on my race car for a car like this highlander just to jerk you every time at light it bad eventually the jerking will ause the car to crack something in the unibody i know you can shut it off but still what the purpose of having it if does this. also to add to the car hesitation for a car with 295 it seems very weak the sorento has 280hp and its plenty powerful, even my dad old towncar is more powerful and it only has around 200hp and weighs 4000lbs. so please people think again if you want to buy these new highlander give them a through test drive and youll see what im talking about