When you need a three-row SUV to accommodate your crew, the Toyota Highlander is one option you won’t want to overlook. This mid-size SUV can seat up to eight people in its spacious cabin and is generously equipped across every trim level.
What Toyota Highlander specs should you know about?
Let’s start with its:
- 3.5L V6 engine (295 hp)
- 24 mpg EPA-estimated fuel economy (21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway)
- Five-star overall NHTSA safety ratings
With so much to love about this three-row SUV, the Toyota Highlander is a worthy contender. From its powerful V6 engine to its impressive fuel economy, this SUV truly has something for everybody.
More About the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has been in consistent production since the 2011 model year and is currently in its fourth generation of production (as of September of 2020).
Available in five trim configurations with seating capacity ranging from seven to eight (depending on configuration), well over one million Highlanders have been sold in the United States since 2001.
The Toyota Highlander has also received several awards over its two decades of production, with some more recent accolades including:
- “IIHS Top Safety Pick,” 2019 Toyota Highlander
- “Best Overall Value of the Year,” 2014 Toyota Highlander, IntelliChoice
- “2013 Best Bet,” 2013 Toyota Highlander, Cars.com
Key Toyota Highlander Specs
Take one look at the Toyota Highlander’s specification chart at VehicleHistory.com and one thing is clear: There’s a lot of information to take in. We’ve made things a little easier for you by breaking down some key specifications below in plain English.
Engine and Powertrain
While the exact engine you’ll find on the Toyota Highlander will depend on model year, most recent models come standard with a 3.5L V6 engine. This engine is good for 295 horsepower and is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers a smooth and composed ride.
On some earlier models of the Highlander, such as the 2014 model, a 2.7L four-cylinder engine at 185 horsepower is standard, although a 3.5L V6 was optional on all but the base trim when this SUV was sold new.
On every Toyota Highlander, front-wheel drive is standard, although AWD was optional when this model was first sold. Choosing a pre-owned model equipped with the available AWD system is a great way to enjoy some additional traction and control behind the wheel.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy for the Highlander will also vary by model year, engine size, and other factors. For a three-row SUV, however, the Highlander has always boasted some impressive fuel economy numbers.
On the 2020 Toyota Highlander, for example, you can expect an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg combined (that’s 21-mpg city and 29 mpg highway). With these numbers, you’ll get about 430 miles of range on a full tank of gas.
Safety Ratings
The NHTSA has not yet published its safety ratings on the 2020 Highlander. However, the 2019 model received a five-star overall safety rating with the NHTSA.
On the 2020 Toyota Highlander, you’ll find electronic stability control and driveline traction control for greater peace of mind behind the wheel. What’s more, antilock brakes allow braking distances of just 116 feet on all-wheel drive models.
The 2020 Highlander is also equipped with a standard backup camera to make backing in and out of even the tightest of spaces a little easier. Combine this with a standard lane-departure alert system, pre-collision system, and steering assist, and you can breathe easy behind the wheel.
Other Notable Toyota Highlander Specs
What else might you want to know about the Toyota Highlander’s specs? Let’s start with its available trims. The 2020 Highlander is offered in five trim levels, ranging from the base L to the range-topping Platinum. While the engine and powertrain remain the same across all trims, features can vary.
Standard equipment on every 2020 Highlander is generous and includes automatic tri-zone climate control for everybody’s comfort. Meanwhile, you’ll also find a sleek eight-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Platinum trim gets you some extra features that include a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a surround-view camera system for even easier maneuverability, and a panoramic sunroof that allows you to enjoy sweeping views of the great outdoors.
What can you expect to pay for a used Highlander? Pricing may vary based on model year and region, but 2020 models start at around $34,700 for the base L trim.
Toyota Highlander: Pros and Cons
A quick glance at the Toyota Highlander’s reviews on Vehicle History reveals that owners are generally happy with their purchases.
Some fan-favorite features of the Highlander include its:
- Spacious cabin and ample cargo storage space
- Generous standard tech features
- Comfortable seats
Still, even well-reviewed vehicles have areas where they can improve.
A couple of the drawbacks Highlander owners have mentioned in their reviews have included:
- A somewhat small third row (ideal for children)
- Lack of a robust sound system
- Unreliable voice controls on some models
Photos: Toyota
