2004 Toyota Highlander Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.70/5 Average
270 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2004, a larger 3.3-liter V6 replaces the 3.0-liter engine, resulting in 10 extra horsepower for a total of 230. Additionally, a fold-flat third-row seat (for two passengers) is now optional on base models and standard on the Limited. To keep the extra passengers content in back, a rear DVD entertainment system is available on Limited models. On the safety front, all Highlanders now come with an electronic stability control system and a tire-pressure warning system, while side curtain airbags for the first and second rows are optional across the board. Rounding out the changes are freshened exterior styling, new seat fabric, new instrument and door panel trim and a 5-hp boost for the base four-cylinder engine (now rated at 160).

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

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 270.00
  • You can depend on this one. - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I always buy Toyota because of the reliability and quality. This is no exception. Yes the ride is a little uncomfortable, and the tranny does feel awkward in certain situations, but so far this car has not given me any problems not one, it had a minor recall issue but Toyota took care of it at no charge; some sensor needed to be replaced. I would recommend this SUV to anyone who needs security to move around on a day to day basis.

  • Mostly Pleased - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Ive owned the Highlander for a month now, and am very pleased. Great car. I dont feel I am missing out on much by opting for the 4 cyl. instead of the more expensive V-6.

  • Overall ok, but a few problems - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Dealer said seats were scotchguarded. Were not and now they are terribly stained. Had brake problem that I took to the dealer 4 times that they couldnt figure out. Local shop fixed it. Traction control terrible. Should have gotten 4WD. Suitable gas mileage. Tow a small utility trailer fine. Good family car overall.

  • A Good Choice - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I spent 30 years driving domestic cars and recently found myself disappointed with Chrysler. I was in the market for a car-based SUV and chose the Highlander since I know many happy Toyota owners. Can honestly say I have never owned a new vehicle that has been this good from day one. No warranty items in first six months of ownership. The fit and finish is world class and the interior materials are of high quality. I am satisfied thus far with both the engine performance and fuel economy. I do not drive the V6 aggressively and average just over 20 mpg. The Highlander has met my expectations. Am glad I paid a bit more for the Toyota and did not buy a lesser quality product based on incentives

  • Excellent Buy - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I have owned my highlander for one month now. I am well pleased with it. The tire monitoring system is excellent it warns me if the tires are low while driving @ high speed. I recommend the purchase of this car.

  • An Excellent car. - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    We have 7,000 miles on this vehicle, and our friends all rave for its beauty, we love the gas mileage, comfort and looks of this car. Think we made a very good choice.

  • The best car I have owned! - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Ive had this car for about 18 months and I can honestly say that it is the best car I have owned. It drives like no other SUV, midsize or larger size, that I test drove, and I test drove many. It handles beautifully on the highway and on local streets. The interior features are wonderful and not too big and bulky which I like. It is very easy for a small woman to drive and park! Overall I think it is a great SUV for someone who wants the luxury of a car but also wants to be able to get around any weather condition. BTW, it is made entirely in Japan! I love it, and will buy another in 16 years when the pain job gets bad or I have 250,000 miles!

  • BEST THING I EVER DID!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    THE HIGHLANDER IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE MOST COMFORTABLE AND QUITE RIDING CARS. A FRIEND OF MINE THAT RODE IN IT SHORTLY AFTER I GOT IT SAID THIS CAR DOESNT DRIVE DOWN THE ROAD IT FLOATS DOWN THE ROAD. ALL THE CONTROLS ARE RIGHT WHERE YOU WOULD WANT THEM. YOU REACH FOR THEM AND YOUR HAND IS ON THEM.ITS ALSO A GREAT LOOKING SUV INSIDE AND OUT. PLENTY OF CARGO ROOM ESPECIALLY WITH THE BACK SEAT FOLDED DOWN. AND YOU HAVE TOYOTAS RELIABILITY AND REPUTATION.

  • bgf - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    great car i love it

  • What a Great Birthday Present!! - 2004 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Ive had the vehicle almost a month now and love something new about it every time I drive. The GPS Nav system is a lot of fun. Overall, the vehicle is very well thought out and drives so smoothly I cant believe its an SUV. Im looking forward to its winter performance. We have driven it through torrential rains and it was very stable.

Toyota Highlander Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area