2006 Toyota Highlander Review: An SUV Buyers Can Count On With A Dependable Engine

Alex Showalter
Jul 5, 2022

The 2006 Highlander lasts over 300,000 miles with only some rare engine and paint issues. At $6,764 to $9,881, it’s a decent value for one of the most reliable midsize SUVs.

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likeFilled The Good
Handling is very car-like, the V6 engine offers decent power and interior materials are good for the price.
dislikeFilled The Bad
It’s difficult to get into the third row, cargo space is lower than rivals and the suspension is overly smooth.

Is the 2006 Toyota Highlander a Good Used SUV?

  • Yes, 2006 is a good year for the Highlander. Owner reviews enjoy the dependable engine, comfortable suspension, and safety features.
  • Reliability ratings are very good. Models from 2006-2007 are good, with more complaints on the 2008 model.
  • Performance is okay from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 offers better power.
  • The Highlander is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is okay for an SUV at up to 22 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Dawn G
Must have family vehicle!
We did not get the third row seating option (because we would likely not need it) and we love all the space we have in the back. Our dog, groceries, bags for trips, and my husband's music equipment go back there with ease. This vehicle is easy to maneuver, is reliable, provides us with the space we need, and isn't to big for me to drive!
accountCircle Bella C
Has a CD player, cars these days do not have one.
Since its old there is a few problems sometimes with the engine, or my car somethings make weird noises. The performance is excellent still run smoothly, nothing wrong with it. Reliability and comfort is a 10/10. Features, it does not have a aux cord but it has a CD player which I love.
accountCircle Karen N
My Highlander has 203,000 miles on it and I had it in for non-scheduled maintenance for the first time just a few weeks ago. I love that it is a hybrid and easier on the environment. The size fits my needs perfectly and it knows how to handle Minnesota winter roads.
The Toyota Highlander is a dependable car for many miles
accountCircle Vanessa S
I love the structure body, good gas mileage and it hugs the curves while driving. I have over 170, 000 miles had my inspection, my SUV can go another 100,000. Yes. Great suv.
It's dependable, in any type of weather, it won't let you down. I won't trade it.
accountCircle Deborah S
It's lasted forever and is in great shape. I'm hoping I can get to 1,000,000 miles.
I love my SUV. I've owned it since 2006 and have over 300,000 miles.
accountCircle Heather D
Why I would choose this vehicle 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
accountCircle Deb E
AWD, third-row seats, good gas mileage, a real workhorse for an SUV.
The Highlander is the perfect car. It is reliable, comfortable, flexible. It has third row seats, AWD, cover to hide what is in the boot, moonroof. The car is old so much as been rebuilt on it. Will probably go for at least another 100,000 miles. Great for suburban living, and also out on the ranch. This car has done it all. Low maintenance considering its age.
accountCircle Casey C
I love my vehicle for many ready. Mainly because it is a very practical family vehicle. It serves all the purposes it works for my family.
My favorite thing is Gas mileage. It's just a good family car.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tina A
It's bad on gas but has been very reliable. Parts for repairs are expensive though.
My suv is old and the interior is in poor condition. Also gets very poor gas mileage.
accountCircle Lily H
Very reliable and long-lasting.
It is a really big car, lots of seating and a third row. The third row has its own a/c controls. There are two car charging ports. There is am/FM radio and a CD and tape player. It is a little big and kind of hard to turn when learning how to drive. But it is held up for over 10 years.
accountCircle Jojo C
It's Gold and It Is Mine. Period.
I've had no major problems. Maintenance is pretty cheap if you stay on top of things. It's an older model but it still has its charm. There's a sunroof, cassette/CD player. 4 wheel drive. Downfall, does have a V6 engine so gas is always a concern. Other than that, it's great
accountCircle Fred R
Benefit of a older car or SUV
SUV/Transportation/Cargo capability/Gas mileage not a concern, rive under 5k yearly/not cost effective to buy an expensive new vehicle to depreciate in my driveway/ Another issue is that I do not like the design of newer vehicles/The specific issue with newer cars or SUVS is that the gap between the hood and fender can be seen from the side, I prefer the OLD SCHOOL design with the gap on the top.
accountCircle Julie M
Terrible support by Toyota for a wonderful auto.
My daughter totaled my vehicle and I was treated so badly at Toyota's repair shop that I hate Toyota now. My auto had damage to the upholstery and was filthy when it was returned. A portable charger was gone from my car and Toyota took no responsibility for any of the above. The highlander itself has been a wonderful ride - dependable and lovely to drive.
accountCircle Aaron L
I put an aftermarket tow package on the vehicle and it performs excellently.
It is very comfortable vehicle leather seats it tows a trailer really well but it does not get the best gas mileage. It does not have any blind spots. Very comfortable climate control sunroof power mirrors power windows power door locks I would highly recommend it to anybody looking to buy one.
accountCircle Sue P
Not nearly as comfortable as earlier models and hard to figure out (and inconvenient) how to get "warning" symbol to turn off. I.e.: oil change is done, but light remains on until you fumble through and the book or research how to turn it off.
Decent gas mileage for an SUV. Doesn't have heated seats or steering wheel. Recirculation for vents does not stay on when pushed. Have to continually push it.
accountCircle Fritz L
Great gas mileage gets almost 400 miles per tank.
I like how it drives but when there's a problem with the engine, it is very difficult to find new parts.

What Do Critics Say About the Highlander?

  • Consumer Reports says the Highlander is one of their top-rated SUVs, with very high owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds gives the 2006 Highlander a 4.7/5 and likes the smooth ride, but dislikes the bland styling.
  • Kelley Blue Book users rate the Highlander 4.7/5 and enjoy the long-lasting engines, but don’t like the lower fuel economy.

What Common Problems Does the 2006 Toyota Highlander Have?

Problems found in the 2006 Toyota Highlander are not widespread and include loose engine bolts, clear coat failures, and window clip issues.

Loose engine bolts show up on some Highlanders at around 100,000 miles, but the issue is not widespread. The bolts stretch out as they age, and replacing them costs about $1,800.

Peeling clear coat is another problem that shows up in the first 150,000 miles. The only solution is to repaint the affected areas, at a cost of around $1,000 per panel.

Broken window clips are a problem reported by some owners at roughly 70,000 miles. Some owners replace the clips for about $100, and others simply glue them in place for under $10.

There are 7 recalls, with the most serious being for the brake master cylinder which can lead to a reduction in brake force, increasing the risk of an accident.

How Long Will the 2006 Toyota Highlander Last?

A properly maintained 2006 Highlander should last over 300,000 miles, which is almost twice as long as competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than rivals at $375 per year, according to Repair Pal.

Buyers looking to get a 2006 Highlander should be prepared to replace the fuel pump for $300, the timing belt costing $250, and the hood latch which costs $150.

accountCircle Patricia R

No everything is running smoothly. Keeping oil changes and keep up maintenance it purrs like a kitten. Rides smoothly no abnormal noises.

accountCircle Alex C

One problem in my car is that the tire sensor is faulty to check low tire pressure but other than that there are no problems.

accountCircle Gregg C

This car has been incredibly reliable. I have had work done on it, but with 149,000 miles, that is not unexpected. Many Toyota’s make it to 250,000 and up.

accountCircle Linda Y

The only main problems I have had with the Highlander is it goes through batteries fast and stalls randomly. The factory alarm had issues so I had it disabled as due to the issue my car wouldn't start.

accountCircle Jake S

It is very reliable. I have not had any mechanical issues or otherwise maintenance issues aside from required and typical tune ups.

How Much Is the 2006 Toyota Highlander Worth?

Blue book values range from $6,764 to $9,881, making the Highlander around $1,500 more than a Nissan Pathfinder or GMC Envoy. When new, the price range was $24,530 to $31,860. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 7% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Highlander?

There are three models of the Highlander available. Technology was last updated in 2005, with a complete redesign for the 2008 model year.

Base is the entry-level model with:

  • 16-Inch Wheels
  • Cloth Seating
  • Power Windows & Locks
  • Keyless Entry
  • AM/FM/CD Stereo With 6 Speakers

Sport is a step up and adds:

  • 17-Inch Polished Alloy Wheels
  • Sport Suspension
  • Fog lights
  • Leather Steering Wheel

Limited is the flagship version adding:

  • 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Leather Seating
  • 8-Speaker JBL Premium Stereo
  • HomeLink Garage Opener
car
car
w/3rd Row
215 HP 21-21 MPG
car
car
Sport w/3rd Row
215 HP 21-21 MPG
car
Limited w/3rd Row
215 HP 21-21 MPG

What Engines Come In the Highlander?

  • The base engine is an average 2.4L-4-cylinder with 155 horsepower, which gets up to 22 MPG combined.
  • An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.3L V6, which makes 215 horsepower and gets up to 19 MPG combined. Performance is okay, taking 8.2 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Highlander Come In?

How Big Is the Highlander?

The 2006 Highlander is a bit smaller than some other midsize SUVs including the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet Trailblazer. Passenger room is good in the first two rows, but legroom is very cramped in the third.

The cargo space is a bit lower than rivals, with 10.5 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 39.7 cubic feet behind the second, and up to 80.6 with both rows folded flat. There’s enough space for 2 suitcases behind the third row at an average size of 4 cubic feet per suitcase.

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How Does the Highlander Compare to the Competition?

The Toyota 4Runner is another rival from Toyota costing about $3,500 more. Off-road performance is better in the 4Runner, but the Highlander has a more luxurious interior. We recommend the 4Runner since they hold their value better, but both are great choices.

The Honda Pilot is another competitor which starts at $1,000 less. Passenger room is better in the Pilot, but the Highlander has a higher quality interior. We recommend the Highlander since it’s a bit more affordable to own, but they both are very dependable choices.

Ranks #4 Midsize SUV by Owners

1
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4.74
2
car
4.68
3
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4.49
4
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4.47

Do Owners Recommend the Toyota Highlander?

accountCircle Patricia R

Yes it runs really well with little maintenance good on gas. Has great features. You can charge your phone. You can play music from your phone over the radio.

accountCircle Alex C

The Toyota highlander is a good vehicle. It is very reliable and have not had any problems at all with the car.

accountCircle Charles A

Yes, the Highlander is a great car. It is dependable, fuel-efficient, comfortable and it hauls anything I need, goes anywhere I need to go in any kind of weather.

accountCircle Russell M

The Toyota Highlander is a good vehicle, built to last and has a great amount of space. It does decent on gas, but needs frequent maintenance.

accountCircle Natasha S

Yes! It is very dependable, easy to maintain and looks great. It’s the perfect size for running around town but also for long-haul, car-packed trips.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Julie M on March 28, 2021
Terrible support by Toyota for a wonderful auto.
My daughter totaled my vehicle and I was treated so badly at Toyota's repair shop that I hate Toyota now. My auto had damage to the upholstery and was filthy when it was returned. A portable charger was gone from my car and Toyota took no responsibility for any of the above. The highlander itself has been a wonderful ride - dependable and lovely to drive.
accountCircle Eric B on March 22, 2021
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....
accountCircle Brenda D on February 19, 2021
It gets really good gas mileage And has never really had to be in the shop for repairs
It is reliable and has a small engine so it gets great gas mileage. The interior has stood up well considering the age of the car.
accountCircle Heather D on February 8, 2021
Why I would choose this vehicle 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
accountCircle Deborah B on January 29, 2021
It has 302,000 miles on it and is 12 years old.
My 2006 hybrid Toyota Highlander has 302,000 miles on it. It is an amazing SUV.
accountCircle Robert G on January 27, 2021
I feel that everyone should have a cadillac ifs it is sporty and fun to drive.
Beautiful styling and color has AWD. Six-cylinder (good mileage). Third bench seat. No complaints.
accountCircle William M on January 25, 2021
The great thing about the 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.
accountCircle Carl L on January 22, 2021
It 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.
accountCircle Doane B on January 13, 2021
It was one of the first hybrid SUVs made and is a solid car that needs little fuss
I like that my car is a hybrid. That it is reliable and hasn't given me any hassle over the years. I like that is was able to transport my family to all their activities throughout the years.
accountCircle Nathan T on January 9, 2021
Good and bad reviews of the Toyota highlander hybrid.
It didn't have back up camera and handsfree when the Prius did so they had the capability. There also was not a USB port. They had a outdated radio that had a tape player so that was useless. Other then these things I loved the vehicle. The room was great the third row of seats was great for carpooling. It was a hybrid so the gas was good. Very quiet and driving was a pleasure.
accountCircle Lauren M on January 7, 2021
208k miles and still riding hard!!
I love my highlander. It drives so well, I have a v6 model so it really has that power behind it to do whatever I need it to do. It is very reliable and is still in great shape at 208k miles, I wouldn't be surprised if I made it to 250k. It is really comfortable and spacious inside, with a 3rd row of seats. I've gone through several moves fitting all of my furniture, beds, couches, in the back of that truck! I really haven't had any major problems with it, aside from routine maintenance. I will definitely be looking at getting another highlander for my next car, and I love that they are available in hybrid now for better gas mileage.
accountCircle Daniel P on January 6, 2021
Sturdy and reliable big back storage space
No major issues. Little wear and tear. Not so good gas mileage. Drives smoothly and radio is decent. Good car for getting to and from where you need to be or 2 to 8 hour drives. Overall not a bad car at all and very reliable for me to drive on a regular basis
accountCircle Aaron L on January 6, 2021
Outfitted vehicle with a receiver tows a trailer well plenty of power stability.
It is extremely reliable always starts and runs the heater in the air-conditioner work excellent the ride is smooth the visibility is excellent. It is very comfortable and roomy. It has excellent cargo carrying capacity. I will definitely buy another one.
accountCircle Josh d on January 3, 2021
Fuel efficient people hauling machine. Gets lots of people and their stuff from point a to point b
It's an hybrid that has pretty good gas mileage for the size of the vehicle. It has a third row of seating when you need it, and can haul a decent amount of stuff for the 2 kids. The older body style also was 1.5 feet shorter than current models and that helps with parking in urban garages. I dislike that it's electronics are dated, but they are also very reliable.
accountCircle Karen N on January 3, 2021
My Highlander has 203,000 miles on it and I had it in for non-scheduled maintenance for the first time just a few weeks ago. I love that it is a hybrid and easier on the environment. The size fits my needs perfectly and it knows how to handle Minnesota winter roads.
The Toyota Highlander is a dependable car for many miles
accountCircle Vanessa B on January 2, 2021
Toyota highlander review so comfortable and great space.
The Toyota highlander is a wonderful car and feels very safe. I love how you feel like you are sitting up high and not low to the ground like when driving a car. It is a very spacious car that allows me to get my two kids in and out very easily. It fits their car seats in perfectly and they hook into the built in car seat hooks in the seats. The third row is a tight fit if you are an adult but for children it is just the right size. For the most part I keep that third row down so I can utilize the trunk space. I love how it drives because it is a smooth ride especially for a larger vehicle.
accountCircle CATHERINE T on December 31, 2020
TOYOTAS MAY BE COSTLY BUT THEY WILL LAST YOU IF YOU TAKE CARE OF THEM.
LOVE IT! NEVER ANY PROBLEMS. JUST PERFORMED REGULAR MAINTENANCE.
accountCircle Helene E on December 27, 2020
It is a hybrid which gets better gas mileage which is better for the environment.
I like that my car is a hybrid. It is easy to drive and very comfortable. It is roomy and can hold 7 people with the fold up seat in the back. I really do not dislike anything but I do wish it had a built in gps and a back up mirror..
accountCircle DD H on December 25, 2020
This Toyota Highlander has been a trouble free car for 12 years.
Great car. Gets good mileage. Perfect size for my needs. Has had no mechanical problems, just regular service. My only complaint is that there are no rear air vents and front vents do not have great adjustments.
accountCircle rm e on December 25, 2020
Great reliability, comfort and lots of space to take kids and all their sports equipment with us
Car is well built, performs well and has provided years of service with a minimal amount of major repairs
accountCircle Amira E on December 19, 2020
It has seating for 8 people if the trunk seats are utilized.
It lasts quite a long time, however now it has car window issues such as loose glass and leaking water from rain. It drives smoothly and is durable in tough terrain; such as snow, rain, sleet, dirt, rocks etc. It seats a lot of people and the trunk has extra seating that can be brought down to add more space for the trunk space.
accountCircle Kim M on December 15, 2020
Great to travel in, hold a lot, no blind spots, lay-down seats, automatic.
This older Highlander is very comfortable riding. There are no blind spots, it has been very reliable and always ready to go. The only problems that I have, as with an older model, the vehicle shakes when going over 70mph. Although this could be that my vehicle has 255,000 miles on it and something needs replacing or fixed. I believe this vehicle can still be driven until the wheels fall off... Very reliable and not a gas guzzler.
accountCircle Cori W on December 14, 2020
Great family car. Plenty of room
Very dependable care. Normal wear and tear. Ours is a hybrid which really does help on gas prices but does make maintenance a little more expensive. Over 200,000 miles and still runs great!
accountCircle Mark G on December 11, 2020
Toyota Highlander - there can be only one!
This is the second Highlander I have owned and I love everything about them. It drives like a car but has the room inside to do so much more. Extremely reliable and fairly good on gas for being an SUV. Would definitely buy another one, donated my last Highlander to a friend with 250,000 miles on it and it still runs like a dream for her.
accountCircle James J on December 10, 2020
Best handling vehicle I've ever driven.
Love all the features, easily accessible, seats fold and are removable. Child safety locks, am/fm stereo with CD player. Rides like a dream.
accountCircle Rebecca L on December 7, 2020
Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2006 Honest Review
This car has had issues with braking. When the brake is pressed, sometimes it lags or sometimes it accelerates the car a bit. The car itself is quite comfortable and spacious. It can handle a good amount of terrain. It's nice that it's not huge and hefty, it's a good medium size SUV. I feel like the hybrid does not do much for it however. My gas mileage isn't as great as I would have hoped for. It shows when the engine is using the battery and it does not utilize it as frequently as I would've thought. This may be because it's an older hybrid.
accountCircle Kate T on December 7, 2020
Reliable, safe, plenty of seating and storage. Saves on gas!
The highlander hybrid performs mostly beautifully. The city gas mileage is better than highway gas mileage as the engine actually shuts off when stopped and runs off of battery. It drives very quietly. Interior is leather with heated front seats. It also offers the option of adding two additional seats in the very back. The back seats can scoot forwards or backwards and can offer the option of putting one, two, or all three seats down for more trunk space. Brakes are extremely sensitive. Battery lasts forever (haven't had to replace it at all). Downsides: no USB port for plugging in iPhones, no in-car navigation system, the maintenance light does not indicate what needs to be looked at.
accountCircle Ron P on November 29, 2020
Great car for long road trips!
No service issues with the car. Handles great. Comfortable to drive. Easy to enter/exit. Receive excellent service for maintenance. Good sound system. Tire warning light does not work properly and can't be reset to function correctly. Love the interior layout. Like the fold down seat and cargo room this creates.
accountCircle Roland M on November 21, 2020
Really thankful with my Toyota highlander.
My Toyota highlander is really reliable. I have never had a problem during on the road drive. You can really rely on this brand. Really trustworthy. Very comfortable to drive. You do not have to worry even if you drive in a long trip. We always use it to drop and pick up my son in school for about 400 miles drive 4 times a year (he is a college student). So far until now I never spend too much money for repair, I was so happy with this car. I highly recommend this brand.
accountCircle Robin H on November 12, 2020
Overall a good SUV. Lots of room for passengers
Trac system goes out suspension is bad. Fuel economy is not go. Overall it is a very nice vehicle. Nice for off road. Good in winter driving snow ice and rain. Jas a lot of power for mountain driving. Lot of room for passengers a cargo rack to tie stuff down a tow hitch to pull trailers high clearance. A good radio. Leather seats
accountCircle Ashley B on November 11, 2020
2006 Toyota Highlander w/ third row seats
This car has been extremely reliable. The seats are very comfortable and the third row really comes in handy when traveling with a group of people. There is a button labeled 'SNOW ETC' and for driving in the winter at slow speeds when the roads get really icy is such a help. The only problems I've ever had with this car are with the brakes and alignment. Obviously it is getting pretty old in age (13 years) so I'm surprised I haven't run into more issues.
accountCircle Susie K on November 7, 2020
Sporty, fun, dependable, affordable
There have been no real issues with my highlander. It's been a reliable car. I would prefer better gas mileage but overall it's a good car.
accountCircle Dorothy M on November 6, 2020
Many trips with the highlander to take my daughter to. College.
My highlander has just what I need. This car has good service. Easy driving. Has made some long distance travel. Love the car. Hope it lasts some. More years for service.
accountCircle Shelly B on October 25, 2020
It's reliable, has lots of features, good gas mileage
Wish it was bigger. Higher up. More suv like. Needs bigger tires.
accountCircle kim y on October 6, 2020
I love it and when it's time to get a newer vehicle it will most likely be another Highlander
I feel Toyota's keep their value and are dependable
accountCircle Rachel H on October 1, 2020
This car is extremely reliable. We've had it since, well, 2006, and it's in very good shape
I love the size, for starters. It's not too big or too small. It has run smoothly for many years. I like that it still has old fashioned buttons rather than everything being on a touch screen
accountCircle Manuel B on September 18, 2020
It is dependable and runs when you need it to.
Like the mileage and energy saving. Like the color. Dislike the limited space. Do not like the very small 3rd seat.
accountCircle Kathleen T on September 10, 2020
When I bought it, it had the most safety features of any mid-size SUV. Twelve years later, I am most impressed with its durability. It has needed tires, oil changes, a battery, one belt and headlight bulbs. For 12 years, that is very minimal maintenance.
It is 12 years old and has only needed minimal maintenance. When I bought it, I was frequently transporting elderly, ill family members who lived in remote areas. The all-wheel drive allowed me to access their homes. This vehicle replaced a Toyota Rav-4, my relatives all felt it was too small and cramped. They all loved the space they had in the Highlander. After they were gone and as my husband aged and became ill, the Highlander could hold my walker, my husband's wheelchair and groceries! Now that it is just me, I do not need all-wheel drive or as much space, so I will replace it with something smaller, better gas mileage.
accountCircle Wendy P on September 9, 2020
TOYOTA HYBRID The great gas mileage is about the only interesting thing. This is our first hybrid and I don't think it will be our last.
Love the gas mileage this vehicle gets. It is a Hybrid and having this type saves a lot on gas. We live in the country and it is a least 20 miles to the closest store. We have had a problem with the paint chipping in the front part of the hood. Really is about the only drawback on this SUV.
accountCircle Christian Gulizia on September 8, 2020
Great Quality and Durability
2006 Highlander Hybrid. Great vehicle. I bought it salvaged in 2009, repaired it myself and so I have been driving it for 11 years now. It has 132,000 miles on it now and I had the hybrid batterey replaced 2 yrs ago with a rebuilt battery. Cost was $1,600 at Green TEC Auto with an 18 month warranty. So that was reasonable. Also had the A/C compressor replaced with a rebuilt one $500 versus $2,600 at Toyota. Bought it at Ranshu (see website for details). So having driven it in the snow with its AWD I can say it's a very safe vehicle- never slipped -. VERY VERY well made vehicle, from design to manufacturing. I plan to make it last at least another 6 years. It will be 20 yrs old by then. It's a dependable and great car to drive.
accountCircle Amber M on September 2, 2020
The mpg is fantastic and it runs smoothly.
I love the mpg. The size is perfect. It's a hybrid. Only downfall is when batteries go out it's expensive replacing them.
accountCircle Casey C on September 1, 2020
I love my vehicle for many ready. Mainly because it is a very practical family vehicle. It serves all the purposes it works for my family.
My favorite thing is Gas mileage. It's just a good family car.
accountCircle Heidi K on August 26, 2020
2006 Toyota Highlander - 3rd row
The comfort and reliability are awesome. I have 179,000 miles on this vehicle and only recently replaced rear wheel bearings. I do follow the recommended every 5000 miles service. The only issue I have had is the handling in snow. I was assured by the dealer that all wheel drive will get me anywhere I need to go. I said I go to construction sites weekly. Unfortunately this vehicle does not go through snow like my jeep used to with 4x4. I do not like or appreciate all wheel drive. Even my husband agrees.
accountCircle David G on August 24, 2020
It's paid for and looks good despite its age.
Good size to park and get through traffic. Good interior room. Very reliable. Good mileage for an SUV. Has aged well.
accountCircle Kat B on August 20, 2020
Highlander: going to the dogs.
My Toyota highlander SUV has six cylinders, and has lots of pep. It saves me money because it gets great mileage for commuting in stop and go traffic. It is great for camping, hauling wood, and giving rides to two 60 plus pound dogs. It is been extremely reliable and safe. I would highly consider making a more recent model of this very same vehicle.
accountCircle Ian H on August 17, 2020
Car review for Toyota highlander.
It is a great car. Hardly know its running because its so quiet. Has excellent brakes and great stopping power. Would absolutely buy this vehicle again and again. Started out as a vehicle for my wife but found that I enjoyed driving it just as much.
accountCircle Jenny T on August 11, 2020
Although it's been used for more than 5 years now, it still runs pretty good, in my opinion. I like how roomy it is and gives me enough control when I'm driving, parking, turning, and etc.
The toyota highlander is a pretty reliable car and should make anyone feel comfortable to drive.
accountCircle JENNIFER K on August 7, 2020
My Reliable Highlander (with the stinky A/C)
Don't like the cloth seats and wish we had gotten the third row seating, but it's been incredibly reliable. However, I do not like the amount of road noise that we have to endure, regardless of the brand of tires we have put on it over the years. The air conditioning has also developed a bad smell that is difficult to get rid of.
accountCircle benny c on August 6, 2020
It's a hybrid, seats 7 passengers, gas saver
Saves gas, dependable, reliable roomy sporty luxurious
accountCircle Karen M on August 3, 2020
A reliable family work horse.
This has been a very reliable vehicle. Great for hauling kids and stuff. It is comfortable for long road trips. As long as you do regular maintenance, it will run for a long time. We haven't had any major repairs or problems. It has proven to be a real work horse for us.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.