2002 Toyota Highlander Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
229 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Toyota's car-based Highlander SUV receives no changes this year.

Pros:
  • Roomy interior, car-like ride and handling, spunky V6 engine.
Cons:
  • Rear seat is uncomfortably low, no third-row seat, limited towing and off-road abilities.

User Reviews:

Showing 161 through 170 of 229.00
  • why anything else? - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I dont understand why anyone would consider a Jeep Cherokee or, worse, a Trailblazer. I work with another minister who got a Trailblazer the same time I got my Highlander. Weve traded a few times - Highlanders ride is superior, although not markedly so - but the real separation is in this. Hes been back to the dealership twice in a year; once for a malfunctioning headlamp which required leaving the car all day. My neighbors Grand Cherokee has the same story. Once the warranty ends, God help you. I also have a Camry and Corolla for my kids. We dont even know what a repair bill is!

  • It finally died at 230K miles - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I bought my blue Highlander from the dealership, I was the 2nd owner. I got it at 59,000 miles and it just died on my about a month ago at 230,000+ miles. I absolutely loved this car. I previously owned a Toyota 4Runner (V6) and loved that car too, had it at college and it was a great, safe vehicle that I used to pile my college friends into when we went out. I was constantly on the highway with a lead foot and never had a problem with that. I didnt expect that much from the Highlander but I found out, it was just as reliable at the 4Runner but with a smoother ride. I never had an issue with the engine, but I maintain my cars very well. Also, this Highlander got me through 4 blizzards in the DC/MD/VA area without an issue, and I never hesitated to take it out on the snowy roads, it was actually pretty fun. Car had an awesome amount of get up and go and loved to "race" faster cars who would sleep on me at the light. Lol. My car engine died and I am still not willing to give it up. It just got a brand new battery and four new tires before it died. I plan on finding a new engine eventually and keeping it for my son to drive when hes ready.

  • Fun Purchase - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Choosing a 4 cylinder gives me extrordinary pleasure: my purchase price was lower and now that gas prices are higher, I continue to save because I use less. I find very little loss of power when passing. The design was of prime importance and the reliability needed to equal its reputation. As a widow these were my top priorities and all have been met.

  • Super SUV - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    We wanted a SUV style vehicle to replace a Conversion Van. Researched SUVs for quality, design, ride. Also, talked to other with SUVs. The Highlander Limited came out ahead. Im not into off road stuff so a "car-ish" rather than a "truck-ish" ride was, and has been, the best solution for me. My 2002 Highland was purchased used with a Toyota Used Car Certification check. Have had no problems and enjoy driving it in the city and on the highway. Id do it all over again with Toyota.

  • Comport to drive is below average - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    I just bought my Highlander few months ago, so far its okey but i am not really satisfied with the "Fun to drive" Toyota is claiming. Its a little sluggish when the motor is cold and the cargo area is not that big for SUV.The back seat is very small for tall person (im 6`3 tall) I will give this car 4 out of 10.Wish i bought a Honda SUV.

  • AWESOME SUV - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Test drive the six and the four cylinder. The six cylinder is definately the choice model. It has been about a year since i picked up the 2002 Highlander and it has been perfect. Smooth and powerful v-6, comfortable interior, great handling for Suv and good gas milelage. Everything you need is a mid-sized Suv.

  • Former Xplorer - Happy Highlander - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Owned 3 Explorers and driven them a total of 260,000 miles and still going. We bought my wife a Highlander and the three Explorers sit in the driveway on the weekend while everyone fights for the Highlander. Awesome ride for an SUV. We will keep one Explorer for the deep woods hunting trips. Road trips - we will choose the Highlander!

  • Problem Solved Early - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    After owning the car a few years, my check engine light would come on and go off. The service manager recommended that I do the cat. converter because it seemed that it was going out and I only had about 15,000 miles before my warranty was up. I think this is problem with some of the Highlanders. And yes, the heater/air is acting up.

  • My 2002 Toyota Highlander - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Comfortable and smooth. Now my wife always wants to drive my car instead of hers!

  • Toyotas Lure - 2002 Toyota Highlander
    By -

    Outstanding Vehicle. My "test drive" was when I needed more cargo space for a trip to Wash DC last year. I rented a Highlander for the 14 hour, one way trip. It was so comfortable and tracked so well on the highway! I bought one a couple of months later. I hadnt planned on this major purchase, but the long trip decided it for me. Great gas mileage, the cargo I needed, nice styling, and drives like a car. Absolutely no problems, and complete satisfaction except for "annoyances" of cup holder and OD select mentioned below. 3.0 six cylinder is engine of choice.

Toyota Highlander Reviews By Year:
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