2011 Toyota Highlander Review: A Midsize SUV That Outlasts The Competition

Alex Showalter
Oct 31, 2021

The 2011 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that can be found used from $12,534 to $18,135. It offers better reliability and a more luxurious interior than other SUVs in its price range.

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likeFilled The Good
  • Powerful V6 engine is quick and responsive to drive.
  • Interior materials are above average for its price.
  • Has a lower cost of ownership than other vehicles in its class.
dislikeFilled The Bad
  • Base four-cylinder engine feels underpowered.
  • Seats in the third row do not have enough room for adults.
  • Steering feels less responsive than other midsize SUVs.

2011 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview

  • New for the 2011 model year is a redesigned front bumper giving it a more modern appearance. Reliability scores are above average for its class.
  • Two engines are available. The V6 is more powerful, and is standard on the Limited model.
  • Highlander ranks 7th in its class for fuel economy, putting it in the bottom half of the pack with a combined rating of up to 22 miles per gallon.
  • Safety ratings are average for its class, with a four-star rating in government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives it a Top Safety Pick award.
  • The 2011 Highlander ranks high in the midsize SUV class offering more than its competitors. With a comfortable ride, long-lasting powertrain, and less problems than other SUVs, the Highlander is a great choice for shoppers searching for a three-row SUV.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tiffany D
2011 Toyota Highlander with beautiful tan leather interior!
I have not had any issues with my vehicle. It is a 2011 and seems brand new! Toyota are the most reliable cars. This SUV does not seem to eat gas up as other do either! Absolutely love my Highlander! They are quite expensive (even older models), but well worth the investment!
accountCircle adam a
Great car for the family.
No problems. Car is still running great after 7 years. The car performs well with the standard maintenance of oil changes .
accountCircle Whitney W
Highlander is a very good used midsize SUV, especially with its available v6.
I think the highlander is a very reliable vehicle. I love it. Very high quality, the only problem I have is the ac. It needs to be recharged often. Highlander is a very good used midsize SUV, especially with its available v6 engine. While the base four-cylinder engine is underpowered, it boasts great fuel economy for the class. The highlander offers a smooth ride, but its handling is not very lively.
accountCircle Rian W
Great family friendly vehicle with easy cleaning seats.
So far in a year and a half there have been zero problems. The vehicle rides really well and it is very easy to navigate. The car comes with a navigation system, sunroof, bucket seats with the option for bench seating and a third row. This is definitely a car you can have a family in as it has space. You can also travel with bikes in the trunk if necessary as you can let the seats down to accommodate space. Trunk opens at the push of a button which makes it convenient when bringing a heavier item to the car.
accountCircle Aimee J
Toyota highlander performs!
My highlander has been very reliable and comfortable. It is extremely comfortable with very few problems. We would be another one in a heartbeat. The only issue we have had is multiple rotor issues. We have almost 180-thousand miles on it and it has taken us a lot of places.
accountCircle Michele G
Fabulous vehicle!! Amazing and comfortable.
I love the vehicle. It is very reliability, drives great, very comfortable. The vehicle has great gas mileage. Drives well. Has a great performance. I would purchase this vehicle again. I look forward to a new vehicle purchase. The vehicle has great interior and lots of available seating.
accountCircle Cecelia S
Being a Hybrid I have not had any issues in 8 years.
I like that it is a Hybrid I like the room it has I like size
accountCircle Nicole R
This is a great vehicle for families and travel.
The car performs very well. I bought it used and have had no major problems. The check engine light comes on sometimes but may just need an oil change. It gets great gas mileage and is big and roomy. I love that the seats fold down to allow for more room in the trunk. It drives well, automatic windows and locks. I like the moon roof feature.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Xiu C
Must be has 6 seat got lot of room has GPS map has.
Front class is no good I already buy second one but same problem. But it comfortable when you drive it. I do not like small cars Toyota highlander is pretty size for me has enough room, it every good for when your household over 4 people. Also it do not use lot of gas is recommended for it if you're like Toyota car if you have more than one children.
accountCircle Dyann M
Review from a day to day driver.
No. Problems with the vehicle as far as mechanical. It has good gas mileage. Aux for the cord not a USB direct plug in. Has extra seat in back of car/trunk. Nice as all Honda’s usually are. Style is a little more middle aged mom. Looking vs some newer models. Overall good car.
accountCircle dhvani I
Good resale value, good and comfortable size for 7 people to sit.
Problems with back wheel, some recall on seats belt. Overall reliable and very comfortable. Even the third row it's very good size. Defrost after 8 years is not the best. Comfortable for long drive. I like the back seat feature such has charging. Car that has good resale value.
accountCircle Sierra B
This car is great and super pretty!
The car the I have is pretty great, it is the best car that I have ever owned and I really recommend it to you. I recommend getting the car in white it really pops and is really pretty once it is washed. Someone you need to get a repair here and there but it is not bad and the cost of it is not bad even if you do not have insurance so yes get this car!
accountCircle Sarah B
Highlander is a very dependable vehicle.
It has some power steering issues in the winter. And I had to get the pump replaced. I also had to replace the drive shaft as well. Otherwise it's a really good car. Pretty safe to drive and has a space in the back if you go somewhere. You can even take all the seats out with ease.
accountCircle Justin M
Toyota highlander summary.
It is fine. Sometimes the car makes weird noises when you back up or press the brakes. The car can go very far distances. The car can hold 7 people so you can take your whole family on road trips. The vehicle can go days without refilling the gas tank.
accountCircle Sarah P
2011 Toyota highlander car.
The car was fine the first few years of driving it. But about seven years later we've been having all sorts of problems with it. Starting with both the visors breaking then also having to replace the transmission. The air conditioning in the car has broke several times and the car when it is running does not always sound too good. We've had no problems with the car the first few years of buying it, but as of this year, a lot of things have gone wrong with it.
accountCircle Jay B
Highlander for families. Cargo space not adequate when all seats in use.
Some issues that I think should be recalled. Steering column clunking noise. When all seats are in use there is no trunk space for groceries or cargo. Recall on back door. Fixed but now back window has same issue. Won't stay open on it's own. Wish Toyota was faster to recall things.

What Problems Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Have?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander problems are few, with a clunky steering column the SUV’s biggest issue. The most frequently reported problems are not very serious. Issues include interior visors and noises from the dashboard. Owners have also mentioned excessive steering noise caused by a worn intermediate shaft. Overall, the Highlander is a mechanically sound SUV.

There are five recalls affecting the 2011 Highlander, average for a vehicle this age. Recalls include seat heater wires, power window switches, inaccurate labels, and an occupant sensing system calibration issue. Addressing electrical recalls is important since they increase the risk of a fire.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander’s Base, SE, and Limited trims make it a versatile and utilitarian family hauler. The 2011 Highlander is available used from $12,543 to $18,135 depending on the model and mileage. When it was new it had an original price of $28,090 to $37,045. The Highlander depreciates slower than other midsize SUVs, losing only 35% of its value in the first five years of ownership.

  • The entry-level Highlander is simply called the Base It includes a six-speaker stereo system, cloth seating, and tinted rear windows.
  • A step up is the SE Included is an upgraded stereo system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, leather seating, power front seats, and a moonroof.
  • The flagship model is the Limited. Upgrades include the V6 engine standard, keyless access, push-button ignition, and three-zone climate control.

How Long Will the 2011 Toyota Highlander Last?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander is a long-lasting midsize SUV, reaching over 250,000 miles with proper care. Maintenance costs are around $488 per year, according to Repair Pal. Making it more affordable to maintain than other vehicles in its class.

accountCircle Rachael D

Yes, the vehicle is reliable. I had problems with the battery. I had to replace it every year for about 3 years. Not sure of the reason. Each time the battery knobs were corroded. The visor also will not stay up on the driver side.

accountCircle Dakota B

I've experienced no problems so far with how often I drive it. Just the typical keeping up with normal maintenance is a must.

accountCircle S C

It is very reliable! I have not had any problems with this car. I have had it for over 2 1/2 years! With zero problems.

accountCircle Alexis J

This has been a very reliable car. I have only had to get routine oil changes and some new tires. The tire pressure gauge broke very early on but I never had It fixed since It wasn’t a vital part of my car.

accountCircle Kayla B

Very reliable, the paint quality could be better. Most maintenance is of the routine nature. Regular services and oil change is all I have needed.

accountCircle Kevin F

I purchased my pre-owned Highlander over 7 years ago and have had no problems with the car. I maintain the vehicle on a regular basis and have replaced only the wipers and tail light.

accountCircle Cathy C

The 2011 Toyota Highlander is very reliable. It is efficient on gas, and the mileage is great. The maintenance is cheap also.

accountCircle Kimberly J

Have only had this one for a week, but it is perfect. All systems have been checked out and are working properly.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Technology feels basic in the 2011 Highlander, it was average for its time, but is outdated now.

  • Base technology includes a relatively simple AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers and an auxiliary input.
  • Upgraded technology found in the SE and Limited models adds in navigation, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a higher fidelity sound system.
  • For safety, a backup camera is standard on the SE and Limited versions. All models have disc brakes, traction control, seven airbags, and hill-start assist.

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What Engine Options are Available?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander offers three reliable engine options: 2.7L four-cylinder, 3.5L V6, and a hybrid. With the optional V6 engine, the Highlander is a reasonably quick midsize SUV, going from 0 to 60 in 7.2 seconds. It is also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds with the upgraded engine.

  • The base engine is a 2.7L four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower.
  • An upgraded V6 with 270 horsepower is optional on the Base and SE models, and standard on the Limited.

What Colors Options are Available?

How Big is the Highlander?

The 2011 Highlander is similar in size to other midsize SUVs, but based on owner reviews it has a roomier cabin. Second-row seating is very comfortable for adults with plenty of legroom, but the third row is tight and best suited to younger passengers. Cargo space in the Highlander varies from 10.3 cu. ft. behind the third row, to 42.3 cu. ft. behind the second row, all the way up to 95.4 cu. ft. of room with all seats folded flat. More cargo room than most competitors, making it a great choice if you need to haul supplies and luggage.

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How Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other SUVs?

Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Highlander ranks 4th in the large group of 23 midsize SUVs. A close competitor is the Honda Pilot. Both are good SUVs offering three rows of seating, but the Honda is a bit more comfortable. The Honda also has higher-quality interior materials on the base model. On the other hand, the Toyota drives better, and is more reliable with fewer mechanical problems reported. Honda and Toyota compete closely with each other regularly, and the choice here comes down to which one you prefer to drive since they are both excellent.

Another competitor is the Subaru Outback, which offers all-wheel drive as standard and is more fuel-efficient. The Toyota is more comfortable though, since it has more front and rear legroom and can seat more passengers with the third row. Powertrains are similar between the two, but the Toyota has a lower overall cost of ownership. The Highlander wins out in this battle since it is a more versatile vehicle than the Subaru.

Ranks #4 Midsize SUV by Owners

1
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4.82
2
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4.71
3
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4.69
4
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4.62

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander a Good SUV?

Simply put, yes, the 2011 Toyota Highlander is a good SUV. Based on ownership data, it is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs on the market, and it offers a lot of comfort and luxury for the price. Some downsides include the lack of modern safety technology, and an uncomfortable third row. Overall, if you want a great midsize SUV, the Highlander is among the best in its class.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kris D on June 19, 2021
General review of Toyota highlander.
Solid performing car, routine maintenance allows most problems to be avoided or addressed before they become emergent, gas mileage is not the greatest but it is an SUV, sun/moon roof is great, opening the back is simple with the key fob or from inside the vehicle.
accountCircle Angel C on June 17, 2021
Leather seats. Very comfortable fits your shopping easy with fold it seats.
My highlander. Is a very comfortable car seats six people easy. Four wheel drive. I haven't got no problems had it or 5 years in The second owner. I always every six months gave it tune up. She is a very reliable SUV. I will recommend to anybody who looking for a beautiful SUV.
accountCircle Jen A on June 12, 2021
Comfortable and reliable!
I love the comfort of my vehicle and how it drives on the road. I have had zero surprise maintenance issues and it is very reliable. The added third row is a nice feature and the large trunk comes in handy. While I have FWD with snow tires the vehicle handles extremely well in all conditions. I’d recommend it to anyone and look forward to upgrading in the future!
accountCircle Kat O on May 29, 2021
Toyota highlander is a reliable comfortable SUV.
The Toyota highlander is a great vehicle. The SUV rides smoothly and has had no mechanical problems in the last 9 years. There is plenty of space with 3rd row seating for children including ample leg room. The truck space is large and can hold many items. The gas mileage is good and the SUV has a good ac system.
accountCircle Matt B on May 12, 2021
Solid vehicle but looking to update.
Overall it is extremely dependable and does what I need. However, it does not have a lot of power and no real luxuries. I wish both seats in the second row would fold down to provide more cargo space. A larger vehicle with more power, better handling and more bells and whistles is in my future.
accountCircle Ericka W on May 1, 2021
Roomy feel with lots of space for a small family of 4.
Perfect for small families. Roomy front and back seats. Great on gas mileage. Love the sunroof. I have put a lot of miles on it for my job and it still runs very well. Has an optional 3rd row which is nice but it leaves very little trunk space when up and the third row is not super accessible when you have two car seats in the 2nd row. You have to remove a car seat to slide the seat forward to get into 3rd row. Really wish I had newer model with second row captain's chairs.
accountCircle Mike L on April 30, 2021
The highest of reviews for the Toyota highlander.
We love our highlander. It is very spacious when you let the third row down or leave it up and get ready for a family trip. The gas mileage is very good. It came with a DVD player to keep the kids entertained as well as easy access for them to get to the third row without having to climb over seats.
accountCircle Tiffany D on March 30, 2021
2011 Toyota Highlander with beautiful tan leather interior!
I have not had any issues with my vehicle. It is a 2011 and seems brand new! Toyota are the most reliable cars. This SUV does not seem to eat gas up as other do either! Absolutely love my Highlander! They are quite expensive (even older models), but well worth the investment!
accountCircle Whitney W on March 21, 2021
Highlander is a very good used midsize SUV, especially with its available v6.
I think the highlander is a very reliable vehicle. I love it. Very high quality, the only problem I have is the ac. It needs to be recharged often. Highlander is a very good used midsize SUV, especially with its available v6 engine. While the base four-cylinder engine is underpowered, it boasts great fuel economy for the class. The highlander offers a smooth ride, but its handling is not very lively.
accountCircle Annie M on March 18, 2021
Basic, nothing exciting, good for large families.
It works pretty well for transporting large furniture items, large grocery trips, and other things the average car couldn't handle well. We do not find ourselves running out of space. It does however get hot in the summer really quick and it does not warm up well in the summer, the air filtration is not the best and the warning lights pop on for no reason. Wouldn't really recommend unless you do a lot of hauling.
accountCircle Cheryl W on March 16, 2021
Amazing vehicle that performs extremely well.
We have never had a problem with our Toyota highlander. We drove over 5000 miles and visited 17 states one summer with no problem. We had plenty of room, we were comfortable, the car ride smooth, and we made it all 5000 miles with no problem. We have seat warmers, automatic seat mover on the driver's side, rear air, and GPS.
accountCircle Katelyn C on March 14, 2021
Cruise in comfort, big or small.
Plenty of room as it seats 5 passengers comfortably. Can flatten the entire back seats for more space for storage or grocery shopping. Amazing gas mileage. Reliable, dependable, and a great car for a family big or small. If you lay all the seats in the back of car down, easily able to spend a night of camping. Plenty of charging spaces and rear air control.
accountCircle Shellie C on March 8, 2021
Toyota highlander - luxurious and comfortable.
My Toyota highlander is my favorite vehicle I have driven. The comfort level is exceptional and the features make the vehicle feel very luxurious. I love my sunroof and open it every chance I get. I will definitely consider purchasing another highlander when I am in the market for another vehicle.
accountCircle William P on March 6, 2021
The car's engine makes it my favorite to drive.
The vehicle performs very well with acceleration and braking but as a result the mpg is lower than other similar cars. The car was bought used but has no real issues despite having hundreds of thousands of miles. The only internal structures broken were by passengers.
accountCircle dhvani I on March 3, 2021
Good resale value, good and comfortable size for 7 people to sit.
Problems with back wheel, some recall on seats belt. Overall reliable and very comfortable. Even the third row it's very good size. Defrost after 8 years is not the best. Comfortable for long drive. I like the back seat feature such has charging. Car that has good resale value.
accountCircle Kristine P on March 1, 2021
It has a great sunroof on top.
The highlander is very reliable. The mileage is great and it's never broken down once. It is the vehicle at least I use the most. Worth the money for sure. It needs now tires in the winter, but that is expected. It is very affordable for us and has lasted years and years.
accountCircle Sarah P on March 1, 2021
2011 Toyota highlander car.
The car was fine the first few years of driving it. But about seven years later we've been having all sorts of problems with it. Starting with both the visors breaking then also having to replace the transmission. The air conditioning in the car has broke several times and the car when it is running does not always sound too good. We've had no problems with the car the first few years of buying it, but as of this year, a lot of things have gone wrong with it.
accountCircle Kelly G on February 26, 2021
Reliable, spacious, great value.
Has been a very reliable vehicle requiring minimum maintenance over the years. It is very roomy inside, lots of drink holders for the kids. Considering lots of wear and tear it is still in pretty good shape. , Car has great gas mileage as well and I would definitely buy another pilot.
accountCircle Kayte M on February 25, 2021
It's a dependable vehicle with plenty of room
I love the three rows. It fits my family of three plus our extended family or out of town guests. I enjoy the touch screen navigation and radio. I makes changes the stations and making choice easier.
accountCircle Pam R on February 21, 2021
Toyota repeat owner-will buy over and over.
No problems. I love my Toyota. I do routine maintenance and follow any and all recalls if applicable. I will buy another Toyota when and if that need arises. Very roomy, comfortable to drive. Does not feel like a SUV when driving. Rides like a comfy car.
accountCircle Luna A on February 14, 2021
The max speedy highlander.
I enjoy driving a 2011 Toyota highlander. It drives smoothly on roads. All of its function perform pretty well. I can rely on the in function GPA that is inside the vehicle because it help with traveling to any destination that I need to drive to. I cannot really think of any problems at the current moment.
accountCircle Cara P on February 13, 2021
It drives well and lasts a long time.
I like the size - I feel like it is big enough without being giant. It drives well and is good in the snow.
accountCircle Anna A on February 5, 2021
Tech savvy Toyota. USB and 12v port as well as Bluetooth and hands free access.
The highlander is very reliable, deceivingly spacious and comfortable back seat. Third row or giant trunk. Heated seats, Bluetooth, and hands free. I love that I can charge my phone as well. Ample cup holders. I really love the push start and backup camera. My next car will definitely be another highlander.
accountCircle Julia N on February 2, 2021
2011 Toyota highlander limited review.
My favorite feature of my highlander is the seats. They are super comfortable and make it easy to drive long distances. I also like how easy it is to connect my iPhone through either Bluetooth or just plugging it into the USB port. I wish my highlander had a better rear view backup feature. My screen is small, so I rarely use it. I like the first row of the backseat because of the captain's chairs, but it feels plastic-y because of the insert on the side doors and the plastic box between the two chairs. I do not like the back row seats. They are way too small and offer no space for knees. Plus, when the back row is up, there is very little space in the trunk of the car. This car works well for a family of up to four people, but, beyond that, it would be a tight squeeze. The only reason I prefer this car over a Sudan is that I often drive long distances and this car offers a lot of comfort in the driver's seat. Also, compared to a Sudan, the engine feels strong and I feel safe in this car.
accountCircle Jennifer P on February 1, 2021
I’d buy it again because it is dependable and gets good gas mileage for an SUV.
The highlander is very spacious and I have two children. It is an SUV but drives smoothly like a sedan. Beautiful.
accountCircle Nicole S on February 1, 2021
Everything is in reach and easier to access and allow focus to driving safely.
I love that seats adjust to up and down forward and back since I am short. It has many buttons for heating or air conditioners to adjust front and back. It has a CD player. Only part I miss having is the part where you can hook the phone into car to play music using a cord. The Bluetooth for music to link to my iPhone is confusing and cannot seem to figure it out. Love that I can answer phone calls directly from dash of car and have map view already in car. Could use extra trunk room for vacation traveling or carpooling.
accountCircle Christine T on January 28, 2021
My Toyota highlander is a great car that we have not had to constantly repair it.
Amazing. Minimal repairs. Very reliable and spacious. Drives well and safe. Had no issues with the vehicle. It is a great family car and has given our family the stability it needs. We have driven many miles in it and use it daily and have not had any issues with it.
accountCircle Rian W on January 23, 2021
Great family friendly vehicle with easy cleaning seats.
So far in a year and a half there have been zero problems. The vehicle rides really well and it is very easy to navigate. The car comes with a navigation system, sunroof, bucket seats with the option for bench seating and a third row. This is definitely a car you can have a family in as it has space. You can also travel with bikes in the trunk if necessary as you can let the seats down to accommodate space. Trunk opens at the push of a button which makes it convenient when bringing a heavier item to the car.
accountCircle Kimberley S on January 22, 2021
I feel safe in it because it's roomy and very comfortable.
I love the smooth ride and and that it's comfortable and very roomy.
accountCircle Luna M on January 20, 2021
Comfortable for everyone!
I enjoy driving this car. I have had it for about 6 or 7 years now and have never had to do any major maintenance on the car. I can maintain it simply through oil change and occasional tire rotations. The car has more than enough room for the family, with a three seater middle row and 2 seater back row. This extra room allows for about 7 people total to be in the car at any given time. My only complaint is that once the final row is up, there is no room left for luggage. However, I can understand the car is not intended for several passengers and luggage. The car continues to have very good responses. Braking is quick and does not require much power and neither does acceleration, compared to other, older, cars. The car is very enjoyable to drive in and offers comfort for everybody.
accountCircle Royce A on January 18, 2021
Wonderful Toyota highlander.
Have owned this highlander for 7 years. Bought it new. Have never had any problems with it. Only money I have spent on it is just for upkeep and general maintenance. I highly recommend Toyota highlander. I also own a newer Toyota highlander that my wife drives and it has been good also.
accountCircle Courtney F on January 15, 2021
How spacious it is, with the 3rd row especially. The trunk is a decent size too
It has a lot of room. Love the 3 rows. It is a very dependable car
accountCircle Apache B on January 10, 2021
Heated seats and reliable.
I haven't had any problems out of my highlander. I drive it daily and have regular oil changes and everything works great on it. I love the heated seats and the third row seating. It offers plenty of space for my family. My kids love it because they can be spread out in the car and my husband loves that he can lay the seats down and transport things when it is raining. It is been a real lifesaver.
accountCircle Laura Z on January 8, 2021
I love my Toyota highlander.
Favorite car I have driven so far! So much space for comfort. Great car for a family because the kids will have plenty of room in the back and there is a whole lot of packing room! Ride is incredibly smooth and has been running well for the two years I have had mine!
accountCircle Cecile L on December 30, 2020
Highlander will shows It's loyalty by it reliability.
My base model of the highlander did not disappoint in terms of comfortable ride and absolute reliability. In eight years of ownership maintenance has merely been routine oil changes, brakes and tires, windshield wipers. I appreciate the third seat for passengers and the room for hauling large cargo. Passengers in the second row enjoy comfortable seating and excellent leg room space. The features idid moss were the backup camera and the blind spot camera on the right side of the vehicle. I also find manually lowering the tailgate is cumbersome and would specify auto lowering in my next vehicle. The highlander also has a terrific value that holds for resale.
accountCircle Jay B on December 27, 2020
Highlander for families. Cargo space not adequate when all seats in use.
Some issues that I think should be recalled. Steering column clunking noise. When all seats are in use there is no trunk space for groceries or cargo. Recall on back door. Fixed but now back window has same issue. Won't stay open on it's own. Wish Toyota was faster to recall things.
accountCircle Joy B on December 26, 2020
It handles well in all types of weather including snow!
Love it - drives nice - very roomy inside - handles well in all weather. Definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone interested in a SUV
accountCircle Rachel S on December 17, 2020
The third-row SUV I was looking for.
My highlander has not had as much as a hiccup since I bought it. I am sitting at 65, 000 miles now and I am so incredibly pleased to have chosen to get a highlander. My one complaint is the gas mileage is killing me. It is marketed as 18 mpg city and I think 24 mpg highway? Anyway, I drive mostly highway on my commute, so I do hit traffic, but on average I get 20-21 mpg, closer to 20. If I could have afforded a hybrid highlander I would have gotten one of those instead. I really love the space in the third row of seating. Average sized adults fit comfortably, but my 6'3 husband hits his head on the ceiling. Just something to mention.
accountCircle Alyssa Z on December 16, 2020
This vehicle is big enough for a family and road trips and is reliable!
This car drives very smoothly and is absolutely reliable. It has had very few problems in the 7 years I have owned it. The only issue I have had is that the tire pressure light is broken so it is just always on. I love the v6 engine and how quick the pep is for a big car. I have two kids and love how much storage I have with two car seats and strollers! It has a good backup camera although I am sure the newer ones have better ones. I love this car and would buy another one.
accountCircle Clyde T on December 15, 2020
2011 Toyota highlander great family car.
I have a 2011 Toyota highlander se, 4 cylinder, automatic. I purchased this car in for its performance with a 4 cylinder engine, comfort of 3 rows of seating, large cargo capacity, and a few advanced features a that time. I have not had any major mechanical problems with my car so far. The only feature I would like improved upon would be the size of the backup monitor and brightness of the reverse lights. I am pleased with my car and looking to purchase a newer version of this SUV with all the newer safety features included. . This is a great car for growing families and active grandparents. I have enough room to transport my 4 grandchildren each with their own car seats safely in the back 2 rows. I can transport my son's family with wife and 2 kids with car seats plus my wife and myself in this car. Lowering the back 2 rows of seats creates enough room to load 2 new toilets in shipping boxes. Enough room to transport a lot of family things.
accountCircle Kathy M on December 9, 2020
Toyota highlander top ranked by consumer reports.
I bought the vehicle a year old and drive it daily to work and back. It handles freeways and mountain roads beautifully. The engine has enough power to not bind down. The third row of seats work wonderful for extra passengers. Driving this car is a dream with larger side mirrors and no blocked views. I have had no major fixes down on the vehicle which is important when buying. We have taken the vehicle on several road trips and are very satisfied with the vehicle.
accountCircle Michelle G on December 2, 2020
Great to drive in All types of weather.
My SUV is great in all types of weather. It's all wheel drive. The outside and inside colors and design are perfect for me. It has third row seating to hold my larger family. The price was not to high and my SUV holds its value over time. The engine is quiet and runs smooth.
accountCircle Aline S on December 1, 2020
Toyota highlander is a lifetime car.
I never had a big problem with my car, we love Toyota, especially highlander model, it is so comfortable and resistant. Its a lifetime car, of you are looking for something to stick with you for a long time you definitely have to buy the Toyota highlander.
accountCircle Aimee J on November 29, 2020
Toyota highlander performs!
My highlander has been very reliable and comfortable. It is extremely comfortable with very few problems. We would be another one in a heartbeat. The only issue we have had is multiple rotor issues. We have almost 180-thousand miles on it and it has taken us a lot of places.
accountCircle Heidi W on November 27, 2020
Unbelievable space onside. No real issues my favorite car I have ever owned.
Knock on wood no real issues just standard maintenance. This is the best car I have ever owned. Three rows of seats all comfortable easy in and out from all three rows. Lots of legroom and space for all. Only thing on this model is backup camera is small they have upgraded that on the newer models.
accountCircle Jacqueline R on November 18, 2020
Great SUV! Spacious and safe. Great for long road trips and carrying large loads.
Strong engine. Great performances. Never breaks down. Smooth. Everything fits inside 3 car seats plus strollers plus groceries. 7 passengers fit. Roof rack installed and has hitch for pulling heavy equipment. Love the feel of this SUV very safe. Tinted windows and has sunroof. GPS perfect for commuting long distance traveling makes this SUV the perfect fit. Not a gas hogger. Pretty good use of daily driver.
accountCircle Eddy T on November 17, 2020
Good car for family and work.
I have not experienced any mechanical problems and has been very dependable. It has a large trunk and interior space for passengers. Since it is an older model it does not have many of the current year's offerings which has added value to the newer models.
accountCircle Carri H on November 17, 2020
Toyota highlander makes busy mom happy.
We love our Toyota highlander. As a mom of three kids under age 6, it's the perfect vehicle for multiple car seats and has plenty of room for everyone. We have a third row available when needed, but can be tucked away for more cargo space. It drives smoothly, regular maintenance is a cinch, and it's easy to operate. The separate temperature controls for the back allow everyone to ride in comfort.
accountCircle Eddie T on November 13, 2020
Good family car. This car is a good family car that is reliable.
The performance and reliability has been great so far. No major repairs just basic maintenance, it fits 6 adults comfortably and able to fit 3 toddler seats in the second row of seats. Since this is an older car 2 things could be better; a larger reverse viewing screen and brighter backup lights.
accountCircle dayna C on November 10, 2020
The Toyota highlander is very spacious and comfortable.
I love my vehicle it is very spacious for both my kids and we have third row seating incase anyone needs to ride with us. It is full leather interior which is easy maintenance and very comfortable. Performance is great and the gas mileage is also good for my needs as a stay at home mom as we are always driving around.
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.