Best Year for Toyota Highlander

Mar 15, 2021

Toyota Highlander is one of the nation’s best-selling SUVs, setting a sales record in 2018. Let’s dig into what makes it a great buy.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander was released for the 2001 model year, and it was truly a revolutionary vehicle. The vehicle was the first car-based mid-size SUV to derive from the Camry’s platform.

This was the fifth addition to Toyota’s SUV lineup, slotted between the smaller RAV4 and the larger Toyota 4Runner. The main focus of the Highlander was to be a capable SUV on the main roads as a daily driver as well as being awesome on off-road trails.

However, since it was based on the Camry’s platform, the vehicle’s success on the road did not match its off-road capabilities. Until 2006, the Highlander was Toyota’s best-selling SUV. The smaller RAV4 would steal this title in 2006. More recently, Toyota set a Highlander sales record in the U.S. in 2018, moving nearly 250,000 units.

Toyota Highlander First-generation (2001-2007)

The first-generation Highlander was released in 2001 as a five-seat SUV. The Highlander differed from other SUVs of the time by focusing on being great on the road instead of off the beaten trail. Toyota achieved this via its unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension.

A 2.4L I4 engine came standard on the Highlander and produced 155 hp, 163 lb.-ft. of torque, and a max towing capacity of 3,000 lbs. The only transmission offered on the Highlander was a four-speed automatic transmission with “snow mode.” The Highlander was also very safe, receiving an overall mark of “good” from the IIHS.

The option of a 3.0L V6 engine was provided. This V6 produced 220 hp, 222 lb.-ft. of torque, and increased the max towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. The larger V6 consumed three more mpg than the I4 with combined mpg being 18 and 22, respectively. Buyers also had the choice between the standard FWD or optional AWD.

In addition to providing optional AWD and a snow mode on the transmission, the Highlander had many capabilities to compensate for its poor off-roading ability. These capabilities included 6.9-inches of ground clearance (.4-inches was provided on the AWD version) and an optional vehicle skid control system with traction control and selective braking.

Two trims were initially offered on the Highlander: the Base and Limited. Later, the Sport trim was offered. Standard equipment on the Base included air conditioning, a six-speaker sound system with a CD/cassette blend, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, bottle holders, and most crucially grocery bag hooks.

On the Sport trim, buyers would get 17-inch alloy wheels, re-tuned suspension, fog lights, a body-colored grille, chrome exterior trim, power driver seat, and leather-wrapped interior. Finally, the Limited trim gave buyers a JBL sound system, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, woodgrain interior touches, alloy wheels, a full-size spare, fog lights, privacy glass, and leather upholstery was available on the V6 models.

First-gen. Yearly Updates

2004: Toyota replaced the 3.0L V6 with a 3.3L V6 adding 10 hp for a total of 230 hp. This upgraded engine would come with a new five-speed automatic transmission. They also found an extra five-horsepower for the base I4 engine, bringing the total to 160 hp. For those who desire third-row seating, it is now standard on the Limited and optional on the Base. The Limited trim would now offer a rear entertainment system. In the name of safety, Toyota offered optional full-side curtain airbags. Additionally, an electronic stability control system and a tire-pressure warning system are were made standard for all Highlanders.
2005: Yet again, Toyota upped the standard features, this time including a roof rack with crossbars, remote keyless entry, and a cargo cover. Now, a windshield de-icer would be optional on the Base and standard on the Limited.
2006: This is the first year that the Sport trim was offered, details on what it includes are provided in the previous section.
2007: To increase the safety of the Highlander, Toyota made side airbags standard and implemented a rollover sensor.

First-gen. Problem Areas

The NHTSA reports that on average, the first-generation Toyota Highlander received over 100 complaints per model year. One common complaint about the Highlander was unwanted acceleration.

Here, either the pedal would reportedly get stuck or the vehicle would rapidly accelerate. Another problem that seems to affect the 2003 model year the most is overheating at high speeds.

However, the most common complaint about the Highlander is that the sun visor could fall down and obstruct the driver’s view. This problem was more prevalent in the earlier model years and seemed to peter out from the 2005 model year on.

2008 Highlander - Toyota

Toyota Highlander Second-generation (2008-2013)

The second-generation Toyota Highlander was released for the 2008 model year. If this generation had to be described in one word, it would be “safety.” It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick for every model year, six in total. Improving on the last generation, this Highlander came with a larger cabin, a more powerful engine, and better standard features.

Unlike the last one, the second-row seats have a 40/20/40 split. Better yet, the “20” in the middle could be stowed away allowing for either captain’s chairs or a full bench seat.

As the new Highlander did get larger, it also got heavier. However, Toyota thought of this and made the 3.5L V6 engine that produces 270 hp and 248 lb.-ft. of torque standard for the new Highlander.

The new engine would be paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and had a max towing capacity of a massive 5,000 lbs. Similar to the last model, FWD is standard but AWD is optional, with their combined mpg being 19 and 20, respectively.

The Base model Highlander came equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a third-row-seat that can be stowed away, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, a stereo with a CD player and AUX jack, as well as full power accessories.

The next level Sport trim brought 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a back-up camera, an in-dash CD changer, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and second-row seats that can be folded at the touch of a button.

The top-of-the-line Limited was fitted with power-folding and heated outside mirrors, an auto-dimming inside mirror, leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless start, and wood-grain interior trim.

Second-gen. Yearly Updates

2009: Toyota brought back the four-cylinder engine for the Base model FWD. The new 2.7L I4 produced 187 hp and 186 lb.-ft. of torque.
2011: The Highlander was restyled and more standard features were added. These features included the addition of rear climate control to the Base and SE trims. Also, the Sport trim was dropped and the third-row seat is changed to a 50/50 split. New standard equipment would include front and rear air conditioning, power locks and windows, cruise control, and a multi-function keyless entry control. No longer reserved for the base model, those who want the 2.7L I4 on the SE trim could now have it.
2013: A new Plus trim was slotted right in between the Base and SE trims. This brought with it fog lights, roof rails, a windshield wiper de-icer, a backup camera, lumbar support for the driver, extendable visors with vanity mirrors, one-touch second-row seats, and a cargo area privacy cover.

Second-gen. Problem Areas

The second-generation Highlander had a rough start. The 2008 model had 13 recalls and over 300 complaints according to the NHTSA. It has been recalled three times for incorrect labels, two times for the airbags, twice for melting window switches, twice for a seat heater that can catch fire, twice for the exhaust tip falling off, and one time each for the seatbelts and accelerator.

However, there is always good in the bad. In this instance, the good is that nearly all of the car has been replaced, so it should hold up for future owners.

Showing that Toyota learned from its mistakes made on the initial model year, the complaints were cut in half for every model year thereafter. Although the NHTSA lists no glaring complaints, there were a few, and most had to do with electrical system failures.

The only common problem to be found on the Toyota Highlander is a defective steering shaft that may need to be replaced. Owners can diagnose this issue by listening for a crunching or clunking noise when turning at low speeds.

Third Generation (2014-2019)

Third-generation Toyota Highlander (2014-2019)

The third-generation Highlander rolled into showrooms for the 2014 model year. Unsurprisingly, the Highlander had grown yet again, increasing in both length and width. Aside from styling, the most significant change was seating for eight passengers.

The new Toyota Highlander shared several similarities with the previous generation, such as a six-speed transmission; FWD as standard and AWD as optional; the 2.7L I4 as standard and the 3.5L V6 as optional; a max towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, and it was exceptionally safe. For 2014, Toyota found an extra three mpg for the Highlander, bringing the Base FWD version to 22 mpg combined.

Standard equipment included on the LE trim included 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated exterior mirrors, a rear spoiler, cruise control, a rearview camera, a height-adjustable driver seat, a sliding and reclining 60/40-split second-row seat, a 60/40-split third-row seat, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with an auxiliary audio jack, a CD player, and a USB interface.

The next level LE Plus gave owners fog lights, an adjustable-height power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, faux leather accents, an eight-way power driver seat with lumbar support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio, and HD radio.

The equipment added by the XLE trim was comprised of 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, roof rails, keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a “house-styled” 110-volt outlet, second-row sunshades, and Toyota’s Entune suite.

The top-shelf Limited trim came packed with 19-inch wheels, LED running lights, ambient interior lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, driver memory functions, a four-way power passenger seat, a table in between the second-row captain’s chairs, a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alerts, rear parking sensors, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system.

Third-gen. Yearly Updates

2016: Toyota made a towing package standard on all V6 models.
2017: The Highlander received new styling and an SE trim for the 2017 model year. More importantly, Toyota added their direct injection fuel system (D4-S). Also, a new eight-speed transmission replaced the six-speed on all V6 models. The V6 engine’s power was increased to produce 295 hp.

Third-gen. Problem Areas

As stated previously, the Highlander put a strong emphasis on safety. The IIHS awarded the Highlander the top-notch IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for the 2014-2017 model years.

However, the 2018 and 2019 model years were no slouch when it came to safety. They both received the IIHS Top Safety Pick. The only fault to be found in the third-generation Highlanders safety was in the small overlap front test where it received a mark of “acceptable”.

For the 2014 and 2015 model years it received the acceptable mark for both the driver and passenger sides in the small overlap front test. Whereas from 2016-2019 it received a mark of good on the driver’s side, the passenger side remains unchanged.

The fourth-generation Highlander was relatively reliable. It received a mere 100 complaints per model year on the NHTSA. Obviously, this does not mean the Highlander was without fault. The most common problem was with the tailgate, when owners unlocked the tailgate it would refuse to open. Another common problem is fuel pump failure, however, Toyota remedied this with a recall to fix it. All in all, this generation does not seem to be causing any major trouble for owners.

Fourth Generation (2020-Present)

Toyota Highlander Fourth-generation (2020-Present)

The fourth-generation Highlander hit the market in 2020 on a new GA-K platform. The innovative platform improved both the ride and handling. Other improvements for the new generation included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, more cargo space, and Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ was made standard on all models.

Toyota would make their 3.5L V6 engine paired with an eight-speed transmission standard on all Highlanders. This engine is rated at a combined mpg of 23 or 24 for the FWD and AWD, respectively. Predictably, the Highlander had grown yet again, this time it got longer and wider.

The new fourth generation offers buyers five trims to choose from. Standard equipment on the L trim includes LED headlights, tri-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The upgraded LE trim includes blind-spot monitoring, a power liftgate, and LED fog lights. Next, the XLE brings a moonroof, roof rails, second-row captain’s chairs, heated front seats, and faux leather upholstery.

Keep going and the Limited trim adds 20-inch wheels, integrated navigation, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a JBL audio system. The first-class Platinum trim brings with it a panoramic moonroof, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree camera system, a digital rearview mirror, and a heads-up display.

Fourth-gen. Problem Areas

The fourth generation seems to be very reliable thus far with few complaints on the NHTSA. Although, this may be chalked up to the fact that the fourth-generation Highlander is too new to judge. The only problem reported for the new generation is that the fuel tank will not fill up completely.

However, this seems to be a Toyota problem as it is also a problem on the smaller RAV4. This problem has yet to be recalled.

However, it is probable that Toyota will announce a fix soon for this issue.

Continuing the theme of safety, the new Highlander received a Top Safety Pick for 2020 and Top Safety Pick+ for 2021 from the IIHS. It managed to score a “good” in every category except for the headlights.

For 2021, it received an “acceptable” score on every trim, not including the Platinum which received a “good”. The 2020 LE and XLE trims received the lowest value possible with a score of “poor”.

Fourth-gen. Yearly Updates

2021: An XSE trim is now offered which is slotted in between the XLE and Limited. This added a sporty suspension, navigation system, and revised styling.

Should You Buy a Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander has always placed great emphasis on being a family-oriented SUV. Not only is it one of the safest vehicles on the road, but it also offers plenty of cargo space and third-row seating.

However, some Highlanders are better than others, and this guide can help you pick the best one for your needs. It should also be noted that the Highlander has led its class for quite some time now, and many of our favorite auto influencers have sung its praises, like Scotty Kilmer (below) and Doug DeMuro. However, this may not remain the case for the most recent generation. Although they did increase cargo space, it is still much less than its competitors.

Worst Highlander to Buy

While it’s not necessarily a bad car, the second-generation Toyota Highlander should be avoided. It has the most complaints of any Highlander and has been recalled numerous times.

As these vehicles are riddled with problems, it would be best to avoid the second generation (2008-2018).

Best Highlander to Buy

The best Highlander to buy is one that fits your personal needs: Are you looking for a daily only? Or something to take on the off-road trails every other weekend? That aside, it looks like the most cost-effective Toyota Highlander is the third generation (2016-2019). This is because it is very reliable, has plenty of space, and is safe.

However, if money is not a factor, the fourth-generation Highlander (2020-Present) is a good choice that offers more space and added safety. It’s also important to note that if you’re buying a Highlander, you should pick one with the V6 in it because the I4 engines are underpowered.

If you’re looking to buy a cheap Highlander, a 2005-2007 model year is a good choice. These are better than the previous years because the falling sun visor problem was fixed by this point.

Photos: Toyota

Frequently Asked Questions

May 8, 2022

What problems do Toyota Highlanders have?

The Toyota Highlander does have a few common problems that have popped up over the years. One of the most common problems that affects the 2005 through 2013 models is an oil leak. The oil line to the VVT-i system has been known to burst suddenly while driving and that can lead to a massive oil leak. When this happens you will lose oil pressure and will need to stop so that your engine does not run without oil because it could be at risk of seizing.

Another common problem with the Highlander is that there are issues with the center airbag sensor. When this sensor starts to fail it can result in there being an airbag warning light that comes on at the dash and you will need to replace the sensor to get it all working properly again.

The third most common problem with the Highlander is that there is a problem with the ignition coil. These have been known to fail at about 100,000 miles. This, fortunately, is not an expensive part to replace, but it can be an annoyance because the vehicle will not start when it has failed.

Is Toyota Highlander expensive to maintain?

The Toyota Highlander has an expected cost of maintenance at $450 to $500 per year depending on the labor rates in your area. This is cheaper than the $500 to $700 per year average maintenance cost across all cars and brands in 2021.

The Highlander has cheaper overall maintenance costs primarily because it's a Toyota. Toyota builds vehicles that are known to be extremely reliable, and typically they last more than 200,000 miles as long as you keep up with the scheduled maintenance on them. These vehicles need their scheduled services and then they work just fine.

If mechanical breakdowns do happen with your Highlander usually they are not too expensive to repair. Toyota engines are pretty simple and parts are affordable for them. The Highlander has one of the lowest overall costs of maintenance out of any midsize SUV on the market and is a great choice if you're looking to save some money keeping your car running.

How long will a Toyota Highlander last?

A Toyota Highlander should have no problem lasting at least 200,000 miles, but there are plenty of them out on the road today with over 300,000 miles on them. Toyota is known for over-building their engines, and that helps them last a lot longer. They put extra money into the research and development so that they know the limits of the engines, then they decrease power significantly from that limit.

This philosophy of not pushing an engine to its limits really works with Toyota and that is why they are frequently regarded as the longest-lasting brand on the road. The most common things to wear out on a Highlander are just parts that would be considered consumable and will need to be replaced on any car as they get older.

If you want to get an SUV that will last you 20 years or longer then take a look at the Highlander. It stands out in the midsize SUV world for being so well made.

Owner Reviews

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Heather D on June 24, 2021

Why I would choose the 2006 Toyota Highlander Limited w/3rd Row over and over.

I am in love with my Toyota highlander. Its a 2006 but still feels very modern and performs excellent! First off, it has comfort and fits my family well. Its beautiful inside and we love the wood grain option, not to mention the navigation really comes in handy. I owned another highlander and was in a bad accident. My vehicle was totaled yet the impact was small and we all felt extremely blessed in how safe we were. I was so impressed with how the Toyota handled the crash that I went out in search for the exact make model and year. I will only pursue a Toyota till proven otherwise. So, if you ask me, my 06 Toyota highlander gets a 10 out of 10

Andrea G on June 27, 2021

Safe and practical yet stylish family vehicle: 2007 Toyota Highlander

I love my highlander. It is a smooth ride. I have great visibility. I feel it is safe for my children with side curtain airbags. I have had no issues handling in the rain or snow. I utilize the 3rd row seating when family is in town. When that is down there is ample cargo space. I haul groceries, soccer stuff etc. With no problem. My only complaint would be rattling sounds such as from the closed glove compartment but that is probably just due to age. I have had no major issues with the vehicle in the years I have owned it. I would highly recommend highlander’s to anybody.

William M on June 24, 2021

The great thing about the 2006 Toyota Highlander is the incredible amount of storage.

The 2006 Toyota highlander is a very reliable car. I have had no problem with the engine and have done periodic maintenance like changing oil and replacing brakes. The car runs smoothly and cools down and heats up very fast. It is very reliable in the snow with its all wheel drive. It has many compartments for storage and the center console has room for beverages and storing CDs and tape media. It has a great deal of storage in the back and has the ability to fold down the back seats for extra storage and handling if need be.

Anthony H on June 26, 2021

2020 Toyota Highlander XLE.

So far so good. Assisted driving takes some getting used too but makes a long drive so much nicer. The car will keep a certain distance from the vehicle in front of you when cruise is set. Cruise will also slow you down going down hill. Your able to start your car with your phone from anywhere and track your driving habits with the app. 2nd row seating is just as comfortable as the front on long family trips. The ability to choose the surface your driving on really works going from paved to gravel. Would recommend to anyone.

Kelly H on June 28, 2021

2019 Toyota Highlander: Great family car without an overwhelming size.

We love the flexible space with the ability to fit extra kids when needed. Filing all seats would be a tight fit, but it is useful for a quick drive when needed. Space in the front and middle rows was important and we needed enough to stretch legs, we really like that the middle row can move forward and backwards to accommodate shorter legs and longer legs. Storage space is great, we keep sunglasses and masks on the easy to access shelf under the dashboard. Center console had great storage space. And plenty of cup holders.

Kekil C. on June 26, 2021

Dependable all purpose 2004 Toyota Highlander

16 yrs old, 199k miles and counting. Only major repair done was replacement of new catalytic converter 3 yrs ago. Other than that, I followed regular maintenance schedules and this car seems to be still going strong. I used this vehicle to travel to north and south west coast and as my daily commuter car. Engine is very responsive going uphill for a 4 cylinder SUV. I get an average gas mileage of 25-27 mpg. It is very roomy and rides like a car.

Mary Z on June 24, 2021

2005 Toyota Highlander, very dependable vehicle.

Very reliable car, minimum problems. Still looks great except the tire rims are rusted. Tire sensor has been since very early on even though the tires are inflated correctly, I was told its a bad sensor. Paint job looks great. Starting to get chips in the hood due to rocks hitting hood while driving. Burns a lot of oil, but does not leak oil. Interior material is holding up good. The heat knob is a little sensitive as to where it will blow heat.

Katie M on June 28, 2021

2002 Toyota Highlander is an overall reliable, comfortable vehicle.

I love the interior color and comfort of my car. My driver's seat is fully adjustable and that is a huge help with me and my boyfriend, since he is much taller than me. I also love the sunroof, it has multiple settings, and it automatically shuts itself when I turn off the car. It is very reliable, I haven't had any issues with the way it drives. It handles great on ice and snow.

Carl L on June 25, 2021

2006 Toyota Highlander is a good all-around vehicle.

It has run well for almost 200,000 miles. Has only needed routine maintenance so far. It is easy to drive. It is the four wheel drive version and it handles well in bad weather. The gas mileage is decent for an SUV. It runs on regular grade gasoline. It also has decent size inside. Those three combined plus it is a comfortable ride, make it a good vehicle to take on long trips.

Cece A on June 27, 2021

Great Vehicle for Young Drivers: 2002 Toyota Highlander

The vehicle runs really well in the winter, especially throughout the snow. The seats are comfortable and the blind spots are minimal. The gas mileage is fairly decent and there are hardly ever problems in the engine compartment. I love all of the space in the back of the car and especially when the seats can be folded down. It makes moving much easier.

Karen L on June 29, 2021

2001 Toyota Highlander, reliable and dependable.

I've had no major problems with my highlander. Have had to fix driver window. The power window became loose. Have also had to fix spring on button for heated seat. There have been no major problems. It had been very reliable. Gas mileage runs 18 to 24 mph in city and highway. Leather seats are standard. Very comfortable drive with plenty of legroom.

Kimberly I on June 27, 2021

2001 Toyota Highlander, great everything car.

T is great, reliable and can handle anything thrown at it. Very comfortable for long drives and can handle any weather being an SUV. Its big enough that it makes it easy to get car seats in and out as well as young children. Has a lot of trunk and storage space makes is easy for moving and camping with. Can handle well with tow capability.

Dianne M on June 25, 2021

Love my 2004 Toyota Highlander for too many reasons to count!

Top of the line vehicle when it was new. Has held up super well. Living in northwest pa is not easy on any vehicle but this has zero rust and absolutely no mechanical issues at all. Change the oil regularly but new tires every couple of years and you are all set! 166, 000 miles and still a dream to drive! I love this SUV!

Jessica P on June 28, 2021

2002 Toyota Highlander is longevity at it's finest!

Mileage is currently at 226k. Other than a few windows not working, and needing coolant every few months, as long as the oil is changed when it's supposed to, the car runs great. Drives very smooth. We did have to have the AC unit sent out to get rebuilt, but that was just last year (2018) and the car is a 2002.

Kari M on June 25, 2021

2005 Toyota Highlander is still dependable even after being 13 years old!

I believe that my vehicle is dependable. I like it because it can seat seven people giving me plenty of room for my children and their friends. It is also very easy for me to put the back two rows of seats down making extra room when I need to transport large items, or go grocery shopping.

Daniel H on June 26, 2021

Reflections of a 2003 Toyota Highlander. I love the skylight. It is great.

I have a used 2003 Toyota highlander. I bought it in 2016. For an older car, it has been very reliable. Regular oil changes keeps it going. It is a very comfortable car and it rides very well. Mechanical problems have been very minimal. I have had a water pump replaced. It has been great.

Carl H on June 28, 2021

2001 Toyota Highlander: Toyota reliability - classic reputation.

Great reliability. I have had this vehicle for 16 years and no major mechanical problems. General maintenance, oil changed, etc. And this vehicle will last to antique status. This is a limited model, leather seats, loaded electronics. Back seats fold down for extra storage space.

Flora L on June 27, 2021

2004 Toyota Highlander is a good running used car, drives as good as a new one.

No problems, runs well and drives good. Put new tires on it and it drives as smooth as a new auto. The seats are cloth but are soft and easy to clean. Gets 20 mpg on highway and about 16 mpg in town. We change the oil about every 3000 miles, and brake pads when necessary.

Margaret T o on June 25, 2021

Great interior spaces do accessibility in the 2003 Toyota Highlander.

Love ease of getting in and out. Reliable. Good on gas. Roomy but not too large. Comfortable back seat. No issues with frequent trips to dealer. No rust after 14 years. Great in snow and ice. Great wear on upholstery. Easy steerability. Good visibility with rear mirrors.

Sheri M on June 29, 2021

My workhorse, best car ever owned: 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited

No problems. Best car I have ever bought. It has 290,000 miles. I drive it 75 miles round trip to work still and my new BMW rests in the garage. It's awesome. I have replaced the air conditioning and the transmission. All of the rest of the work has been maintenance.

Nicky C on June 28, 2021

2003 Toyota Highlander, the large midsize SUV of your dreams.

No problems. Large sized, rides smoothly. Easy to maintain, durable interior. This vehicle is also kid and pet friendly and stands up to spills and roughness. My car has leather beige interior. This vehicle also has a sun roof and racks on top to load large items.

Alexa H on June 28, 2021

Reliable for years, basic model 2004 Toyota Highlander.

Very reliable, had almost 200, 000 miles and still going strong with normal maintenance. Cloth seats are difficult to keep clean. It is comfortable and fits 2 car seats easily. It has basic features - automatic locks, manual seat adjustments, cruise control.

Eric B on June 24, 2021

2006 Toyota Highlander is my vehicle and I recommend it to anyone looking to buy.

Truck is just what I need. Runs great and good on gas. Has power and has the room I need for kids and groceries. Never really had any major problems with it. Has been a great and reliable vehicle since I have owned it. Has air, CD changer, sunroof etc....

Tom E on January 31, 2022

2015 Highlander Limited

Best vehicle we’ve owned in 50 years. Great looking in and out, drives super smooth and powerful, lots of space, and many features like heated seats we enjoy having. No issues. Now at 130k, will we find as good a new vehicle when we get to 160k miles?

John A on June 25, 2021

2005 Toyota Highlander is a fantastic and reliable vehicle.

The performance and reliability are fantastic. I have the 4WD version which get about 17mpg which is not great but not bad either. Other than normal maintenance I have had no issues which the key to that is regular oil change and servicing.

Robin S on June 27, 2021

The 2007 Toyota Highlander has a lot of space for passengers, elbow room, foot room, and room for packages.

I really like my car. I especially like the third road seating providing 7 seats. I like how the third row seats fold down for more trunk room.

Austin Kinney

Austin M. Kinney’s auto coverage can be found on popular sites like DriveTribe and Vehicle History. When he’s not busy writing about cars, he can be found hosting videos on his popular automotive YouTube channel, Kinney’s Reviews, which has grown to garner over 4,000 monthly views, and his writings have been viewed over 200,000 times.