2012 Toyota Highlander Review: One Of The Best Midsize SUVs That Outlasts The Competition

Alex Showalter

Apr 5, 2022

The 2012 Highlander can last over 300,000 miles with only minor steering and electrical complaints. At $11,294 – 18,436 it’s expensive, but worth it for the reliability.

The Good

The cabin is very quiet, seats are comfortable and the infotainment system is easy to use.

The Bad

The third row is cramped for adults, the 4-cylinder engine is weak and steering feel is clunky.

Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander a Good Used SUV?

Yes, 2012 is a good year. Owners have praised the smooth engine, spacious cabin, and affordable maintenance costs.
Reliability ratings are great. Highlanders from 2009–2014 are all good with some more interior complaints on the 2015 model.
Performance is weak from the 4-cylinder engine, but the V6 has great power.
The Highlander is a safe SUV earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick Award.
Fuel economy is okay, at up to 22 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

Aj G

It is a Toyota! Here for the long haul.

It is a Toyota! Very reliable, low maintenance, oil, gas and go. Base model is comfortable, love the third row enough room for two adults. Plenty of space when the third row is down, for groceries and other items. Mpg is ok, between 22-27 daily miles. Very smooth on long drives, middle rows reclines back for comfort.

John A

Safe to drive. Car weighs 6000 pounds. Able to sit comfortably.

Car weight helps me feel safe on road. Excellent mileage. Great acceleration. Fit comfortably.

ashley j

Trustworthiness and reliability! Super spacious without being a bulky SUV

I love the space without it being a huge SUV. I love the ability to open the back hatch with my keyless remote. I like the push button start. I love the ease of driving it. I love the ALL wheel drive. I enjoy the navigation system, even tho it's outdated.

Michelle S

Dependable and great looking SUV.

Very smooth ride. My highlander is 8 years old but still looks, rides and handles like a brand new car. When I am ready to purchase another car I will buy a highlander again. It is dependable and good on gas mileage as well. I highly recommend Toyota to everyone!

Claudia R

It is a very solid, reliable vehicle though it is an older model.

The car feels solid. It runs smooth and has lots of power. It has deluxe features. It has been in 2 major deer accidents, was repaired and runs like a charm. Sometimes there are rattle-type noises that are annoying.

Don Y

Reliable and fun to drive

No comment, haven't been a problem with it

Stephen S

It is good in all weathers and driving conditions

It is always dependable. It is a beautiful reach imperial blue , which makes it stand out, iit is roomy and comfortable

Angie M

It is a very reliable vehicle. It is a nice looking vehicle. Having navigation system is awesome.

I really like the navigation system. I enjoy how many passengers I can fit. I do not like that I can't update my maps for my navigation system. Silly but I like having cup holders in the very back.

Negative Owner Reviews

Susan Ahmed

Should have been put on the Lemon List

Purchased Certified pre-owned from the Toyota dealer 2.5 years ago.First item was cylinder head cover gasket and spark plug tube orings needed to be replaced at 30k!? The gasket was leaking and the dealer was telling me it was "just seepage" and brushed me off.So I let Toyota know, and then they agreed to fix it.$321,under the certified warranty.Next item at 84k :Exhaust cam oil control valve$609.No longer under warranty of course..The only reason I went with Toyota was because they USED to build quality cars..Now I'm not so sure??I still owe 10k on this car and have been maintaining it at the Toyota Dealer since I bought it with 30k on it.Not happy with this Toyota:-( Wondering what will be next?

John Harding

Used daily

No dipstick to check transmission fluid. Transmission designed to be non owner serviceable therefore expect transmission to go out after many miles. Toyota loosing long life ratings after such planned obsolescence.

Allison W

It has third row seating to fit 7 people.

The vehicle drives great. Not a lot of road noise. Good gas mileage. Has a third row so it fits 7 people comfortably. The middle seat folds down if you need more room for hauling. It also has a hitch on the back if you ever needed to hook a trailer to it.

Taylor K

Toyota highlander - olive green.

This car is very safe. It is great for families and lasts for a long time if you take care of it well. It drives extremely well and is very roomie. Again, perfect for families. It is very reliable and trustworthy, especially for new drivers. I highly recommend this car to you.

Jennifer W

Love it hate it relationship.

Bought used. Comfortable car with ample room for first row and second row, third not for people with long legs, no storage room if third row is up. Third row seats are easy to pull up and down. Recall on the back tailgate because of motor issue with door, replaced and working now. Door lock issues with driver door, remote key does not work and have to use valet key. Navigation is outdated. Car has been reliable on multiple long distance road trips and has hauled a small U-Haul unit. Have not been able to connect by Bluetooth between car and phone.

Audrey H

Used family vehicle in good condition.

Recently bought this car for my expanding family. It drives well but I wish it had more room in the back for luggage, etc. My kids left lights on and ran the battery down. Currently it is in the shop. It has also been leaking oil or something in my garage. When it is started, it takes a little longer to start than it should.

Hedi H

Spacious vehicle. Rides smooth.

Radio does not work properly. Srs bag alert light stays on. Not enough horsepower. Oil change light is too difficult to turn off. Windows need to be darker without having to be customized. Sun visors need to be horizontally longer or at least able to pull more visor from the bottom out if needed like it already has longitudinally.

Boi T

Decent durability, low cost service.

It was not as smooth as I expected as I got it second handed. Overall it was a pretty good car to buy. Durability is pretty decent, and the repair fee is good enough to not break your pocket out. I haven't had any issues since I bought this car and it is only a second hand car. Japan cars always been my top-notch when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. I think it is a good investment.

What Do Critics Say About the Highlander?

Consumer Reports finds the Highlander to be refined and quiet, with high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Highlander 4.5/5, enjoying the powerful V6, but has less cargo space than rivals.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Highlander a 4.6/5 applauding the high resale value, but off-road performance is poor.

What Common Problems Does the 2012 Toyota Highlander Have?

Problems with the 2012 Highlander are relatively minor and include a clunking noise while turning, liftgate motor issues, and the air conditioning system turning off.

A clunking noise while turning is the most common complaint showing up at around 60,000 miles. The intermediate steering shaft is the source of the problem, costing $600 to replace.

Liftgate motor failures are mentioned by owners at around 55,000 miles. The motor wears out over time with excessive use, and costs about $900 to replace.

Air conditioning issues are relatively rare but happen to some vehicles at around 12,000 miles. Usually, it’s an electrical issue and turning the system off and back on fixes it.

There are 2 minor recalls for the occupant sensing system calibration and load-carrying labels, which are not concerns once they’ve been addressed.

How Long Will the 2012 Toyota Highlander Last?

A well-maintained 2012 Highlander can last over 300,000 miles, which is over 100,000 miles longer than top competitors including the Grand Cherokee. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than rivals according to Repair Pal, at $502 per year.

As a Highlander reaches 100,000 miles owners should be prepared to replace spark plugs for $450, window switches costing $475, and the air bag control module, which costs $625.

Alexis S

No it is extremely reliable. I have had no problems with it at all during the 4 years I have owned it.

Monica C

It is very reliable. I have never had any major issues. I have replaced tires, brakes and the battery. Other than that, it is been predictable and consistent.

Nikki D

No. I do not think there are any problems with my Toyota highlander. I am looking forward to get a newer one in 5 years.

Anjali H

No, we have had to replace the engine. It gives ok gas mileage, and drives like a truck. I would not purchase this vehicle again.

Courtney S

It is a very reliable car. The technology is a great asset to helping foresee any troubles or will alert me if something needs to be addressed. I have hardly had any issues with it minus the general maintenance and the repairs for the wear and tear of driving long distances and varying weather conditions.

Carene D

Very reliable. No problems in 3 years. I believe I will have this car for at least 10 more years. The breaks work well, steering, back-up camera.

How Much Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander Worth?

Blue book values range from $11,294 – 18,436, making the Highlander about $4,000 more expensive than a Pilot or Pathfinder. When new, the price range was $28,240 to $37,195. 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 2010, with a complete redesign coming in 2014 with all new navigation and entertainment features.

Base is the entry-level model with:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Seating
Folding Rear Seats
6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Jack

SE is a good choice in the middle of the lineup, adding:

Leather Seating
Heated Front Seats
Sunroof
Power Liftgate
Rearview Camera
Premium Stereo System With Satellite Radio, USB, And Bluetooth

Limited is the flagship luxury model and has:

19-inch Alloy Wheels
Premium Leather Seating
Wood-Grain Interior Trim
Three-Zone Climate Control
10-Way Power Driver’s Seat
JBL Stereo System

Base

270 HP 19 MPG

View Details

270 HP 19 MPG

View Details

Limited

270 HP 19 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Highlander?

The base engine is a weak 2.7L 4-cylinder with 187 horsepower which gets 22 MPG combined.
Optional is the more powerful 3.5L V6 which has 270 horsepower, and gets 20 MPG combined. Performance is good, only taking 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60.

What Colors Does the Highlander Come In?

How Big Is the Highlander?

The 2012 Highlander is an average-sized midsize SUV similar to the Edge and Sorento. Passenger room is good in the first and second rows, but the third row has limited legroom and is best suited to younger children.

Cargo space is good with 10.3 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 42.3 behind the second, and up to 95.4 with all seats folded flat.

How Does the Highlander Compare to the Competition?

The Honda Pilot is one of its closest competitors costing about $4,000 less. Passenger room is better in the Pilot, but the Highlander offers more technology. We recommend the Highlander with lower ownership costs, but both are great SUVs.

The Toyota 4Runner is another rival costing $7,000 more. Where the 4Runner stands out is with better off-road capabilities, but the Highlander has more passenger room. We recommend the 4Runner since it’s more capable, but the Highlander is good if you don’t need to go off-road.

Ranks #5 Midsize SUV by Owners

2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser

4.88

2012 Toyota 4Runner

4.69

Tie

2012 Toyota Highlander

4.57

Do Owners Recommend the Toyota Highlander?

Alexis S

Yes. It is very comfortable with lots of room for my family. It drives well and I have had virtually no problems with it at all.

Monica C

Yes. It has 150,000 miles. No major issues ever. I have replaced brakes and tires and had oil changes. Perfect for someone who wants low maintenance.

Nikki D

Yes. I love my highlander. It is great in the snow. It fits my whole family and dogs. It is good on gas and very comfortable on long drives.

Anjali H

No, it has had engine trouble. We have had to replace the engine. I would not buy this vehicle again.

Courtney S

It is a great vehicle! It is a hybrid so has great mileage. It has three rows id necessary and comfortably seats 7. The trunk space is perfect for large luggage to basic groceries. I really enjoy how smooth of a drive it is and how the technology will let me know if I need an oil change or anything that needs to be looked into. Great ac and love the recline on the front two seats. The seat warmer is great for the colder days! It is a great car!

Taylor W

I love it. It's spacious and great for road trips. It has a camera for backing up. I have had it for 3 years with no problems. It is easy to drive.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Belisa L on June 17, 2021

Toyota highlanders are the best.

Love this vehicle, comfortable and sporty perfect for a mom and entrepreneur that is always on the go. The back window opens up when I need to transport things for home and the trunk auto opens and closes! The leather and heated seats are perfect for winter.

Marlise T on June 1, 2021

My Toyota experience: the highlander perspective.

I really like my vehicle for the most part. It is not too big, but big enough for my family. The gas mileage is pretty good for a SUV, and it is comfortable. I wish that it had a Bluetooth included, but as it is I use an aux cord. The ride is a little noisy and that is probably my biggest complaint. It is very noisy to start and then stays pretty noisy. Other than that, I do like it and would probably get another highlander in the future.

Hedi H on May 28, 2021

Spacious vehicle. Rides smooth.

Mikayla H on May 22, 2021

Toyota highlander: a great starter car!

I inherited this car from my father and it has been with me ever since. It is a dependable vehicle that will help you drive with ease and comfort. It is not a fancy car but it is mileage is great and I have not had any major problems with it. The most I have had to get replaced were the tires and even then it was not that expensive. I love the Bluetooth feature and ability to change the ac or heat with ease.

Tami K on May 15, 2021

The spacious reliable SUV that drives like a sedan.

The Toyota highlander is a very reliable spacious car, it has the extra 3rd row seat, however rarely used it because there was not space for luggage with the 3rd row set up. I like how the highlander sits up higher than a sedan but driver like a Camry. So far all of the components still work but I have the base model due to trying to stay within a certain payment range.

Camille S on May 11, 2021

Safe and still running after over 300,000 miles.

My car is really safe and easy to drive in all kinds of weather. I got a used highlander after moving to a place with a lot of snow and it has been incredible. The heating features are great and it never gives me trouble. The only issue I have noticed is that the oil filter requires a key which makes oil changes more difficult and expensive but that is the only thing I have noticed that is a negative aspect of the car.

Audrey H on April 24, 2021

Used family vehicle in good condition.

Ally C on April 22, 2021

Highlander: for some, not for all.

This car is a great size for storage and fairly spacious with seating. There is a pop-up back row that helps to fit seven, but when put up leaves little trunk space. The gas mileage is okay, but not great. Runs smoothly with little problems. Turning radius not great. Speakers have great sound.

Michelle B on April 10, 2021

Best travel vehicle and super comfy.

Great vehicle. Runs like a top never lets me down. Minor problem with the windows coming out of alignment and a few bulbs burnt out but no major issues. Bought it used and has run great ever since. Great travel vehicle, comfortable, roomy with all the bells and whistles.

Candy B on April 4, 2021

Comfortable smooth riding SUV.

Small 3rd row vehicle but is plenty of room for my family. Very reliable and comfortable. Rides and drives good. If you are in the market for a small, comfortable and reliable SUV this is the one to buy. Plenty of room for a family and if you put the back seats down, it has cargo room.

Chris F on April 3, 2021

Keep routine maintenance schedule then you will be fine.

Sturdy in most condition. No break down and it has reached 112K for now. Engine runs smoothly.

Justina L on April 2, 2021

Reliable and safe Toyota Highlander.

I love the interior and perks of having the limites version. I live in a snowy climate and the snow button really helps me from sliding out at corners. This vehicle is almost impossible to fishtail. I feel safe and secure when I'm driving long distances over varied terrain.

David M on April 1, 2021

This care has the space and comfort you need.

It has a very smooth ride. There is plenty of run from hauling items. It is fairly fuel efficient.

Patricia H on April 1, 2021

Love my Toyota highlander -great fun ride.

I love my highlander because it is roomy and 7 people can ride in the car. It drives great and good on gas mileage. Seats are comfortable and easy to clean. Toyota’s are built to last many years and not too expensive to keep up with maintenance. Air conditioning is wonderful and works great.

Susan B on March 25, 2021

The Toyota Highlander is a very nice and smooth ride with plenty of room for everyone.

I mostly really like my Highlander. It has a smooth ride and plenty of seating and windows. I wish there was a little bit more storage room available and I wish I had gotten a better sound system because this one isn't too great. All in all though, I have been very happy with my SUV.

Signe E on March 21, 2021

Very nice heating/cooling controls.

I like our car. It is very comfortable and easy to position seats, amenities as you like them. I do not like the rear camera and lighting for it. It is hard to see when backing up at night. Large back area to put things in. A lot of room in back seat area also. Has separate heat/ac controls in the back seat area. Separate heating/cooling for front, rear, and back areas.

Laraine A on March 20, 2021

The highlander is a very reliable car.

The highlander is a very comfortable car. My passengers say that the back seat is very roomy. I really have no complaints with the car. I love it.

Emily S on March 18, 2021

Comfortable Toyota highlander.

I love the comfort of this vehicle - it has leather seats, which I prefer. I like how it sits further off the ground compared to the Toyota matrix we had before. It gets good gas mileage for an SUV, which is important for us as we travel to see family often. I like the seating arrangement in the back - bucket seats in the middle row (optional middle seat that we currently use for cup holders) which are perfect for our kids’ car seats, and the anchors behind the seats for their car seats are in a good spot, easily accessible. I appreciate having a button on the back door that allows us to close it easily even if we have our hands full. The only complaint I have with the vehicle is the design in the back allowing for cup holders makes it hard to fit things horizontally in the back if you are laying the seats down for cargo space.

Jonathan T on March 13, 2021

Everyday vehicle that feels like an adventure everyday.

Great ride, very comfortable, very spacious, very reliable and dependable. There is a third row that allows for more people and cargo, as well as the middle seat of the middle row comes out to make it 2 captains chairs.

T. J. S on March 5, 2021

It runs fine as long as you keep it well maintained.

Good gas mileage. Smooth ride. Not too expensive to maintain.

Sarah S on March 4, 2021

A cool detail is that it has pretty fast ac system.

It is a really comfortable vehicle. There are adjustable seats, manual in the back and automatic in the front. Lots of trunk space for groceries and it includes extra row of seats. With all the seats up there are a total of 7 seats. The very back isn't the most comfortable for taller people but it gets the job done. Up front there is good storage for your must needs like sunglasses cup holders and enough room from extra things. I personally put a full bottle of sunscreen and gloves.

Ariel D on March 3, 2021

Good, reliable 3 row suv.

Good, reliable. Roomy. 3rd row chairs help a lot. Decent power, decent mileage, no major issues. Easy to drive, comfortable with a decent stereo system. Runs smoother on premium gas. Good handling, good power on the engine — even up hills. Tire sensor is broken.

David P on March 1, 2021

It is a quality vehicle the best I have ever owned and will not switch from Toyota .

It is quality vehicle that has a ride that most people who ride with me comment on how smooth ride it is. It all so has a great appearance inside and out and very versatile with great gas mileage.

Aaron L on March 1, 2021

Value for the money and a repeat purchase type of vehicle.

None. It handles good and good gas mileage. Car made to last. Great towing and good resale value. Large enough for the whole family. I would recommend it for anyone asking about what car they should get next. The prices are well worth it. I will be getting another for sure.

Valerie F on February 27, 2021

Toyota Highlander is very dependable and family friendly, including the third row seating for friends

Love the third row of seats! Very comfortable and family friendly! Runs smoothly and hope to purchase another one when this one dies. Haven't had to put much work into it after having it over 6 years

Steph R on February 27, 2021

2012 highlander still going.

I drive at least 80-100 miles a day. I get great mileage. Drives well. Good room for 3 teenage kids for long 12 hour vacation drive. I have 150,000 miles on my vehicle and plan to drive it for another 150,000. I will buy another highlander when I pass this one down to my kids.

sheila c on February 24, 2021

Very reliable brand and model.

Horrible blind spots. Males in family say it rides better than minivan. I miss sliding doors that open with a button.

Ellie P on February 24, 2021

My Toyota highlander is visually appealing, sleek and easy to drive.

I have never been happier than I have been with my Toyota highlander. I love that the height of the vehicle gives me a perfect 360 degree view of the highway and cars in front and back of me. I have had no major issues with my vehicle other than routine care and maintenance in the pat 5 years.

Christopher S on February 21, 2021

Highlander highs and lows.

No real problems, there is an air conditioning problem with this vehicle. The performance of this vehicle is really good. It is the our most dependable car that we own. There is a lot of room/ space in this car. The car is really comfortable, when you hit a bump in the road you do not feel it.

Taylor K on February 20, 2021

Toyota highlander - olive green.

Aurora J on February 20, 2021

Great for families, road trips and every day use!

Spacious, easy to get children in and out of vehicle. Have not had any issues besides routine maintenance. Easy to drive, good on highways and in the city. I like the sleek design. Kids love moon roof. Automatic locks and extra hidden seating. Back door automatically opens and closes with a button.

Diana L on February 19, 2021

Toyota customer for life!

I love Toyota vehicles and you cannot go wrong with any of them. I was looking for something reliable and long lasting which I found in my highlander. I did get the limited edition which I am so glad I did because the interior is beautiful. It also included the back up camera and heated seats which I didn't think I would use but I turn them on more than the heater.

Frannie S on February 19, 2021

The sleek, black Toyota highlander limited is a smooth ride.

My 2012 Toyota highlander is a limited edition and is still a very current and good looking car. My black highlander has a sleek look and has a sporty feel. It is smooth driving and a good car for long drives. The midsize SUV does not look huge on the outside, but it has plenty of room to sit 4 adults. It also has a third row, so total is could sit up to eight people. On average, it gets about 18 miles to the gallon. It is a very quiet car, which allows a comfortable ride. This car has been driven most days since 2012, when it was bought, and has not had many issues. It is still in great condition and I plan to keep driving it for the next several years. The black leather interior also helps to keep it looking new and current. It is overall a very good car.

Jasmine G on February 17, 2021

Comfy seats and trunk space.

Good gas mileage, good leg space in the back seats. Lots of trunk space when you put the third row of seats down. However, very little leg space in the third row of seats and almost no trunk space when third row is up. Seats are very comfy but they do not recline enough.

Kristen H on February 7, 2021

Mom's review of 2012 highlander.

I find my car to be comfortable and reliable. I wish it had more storage space. The shifting is currently a little less smooth than I would like it to be. As a 2012 car, some of the features are becoming outdated. I also wish it had built-in car seats.

Aaryaman B on February 7, 2021

Highlander, can it get better?

The highlander is a really good car with a lot of space inside for trips with your family and your friends, with a total of 7 seats in the car there is plenty of room for everyone. The car ride is always smooth and the radio is good quality with the installed speakers.

Tee L on February 4, 2021

Smooth ride and great sound system.

Outside is too big and could have better gas mileage. Not enough usb ports. Cannot play music on the one port. Love the ride, sound system, leather.

Donna S on February 2, 2021

People should know about my car is that it is reliable.

This is the best car I have ever owned. It is comfortable, it is easy to drive, and it has great accessories to make driving long distance driving quite nice.

Alyssa M on January 27, 2021

An interesting detail about my vehicle is that there is a lot of space.

My Toyota highlander is a really nice SUV. It is a limited edition and gets pretty good gas mileage. My favorite thing about my vehicle is that it is very practical. There is three rows for setting, four cup holders in the front seat and TV screens in the backseat.

Jessica B on January 27, 2021

Happy with highlander as a family car.

The car drives very well, has a terrific turning radius for its size, and has good visibility from the driver's seat. The interior is easy to maintain. The car drives very well in the snow and heavy rain, and the gas mileage is adequate for a car of its size. The entertainment system is good quality.

Ron R on January 23, 2021

Toyota highlander - a winner.

Bought this vehicle in 2015 and have not experienced any issues with performance or maintenance. Its v6 automatic gets about 17mpg. It is easy to get in and out of and is quite comfortable overall. Owner maintenance is easy. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable midsize SUV.

Ron S on January 23, 2021

It is a safe car. The ratings as well as the sturdy construction have been one of the best features.

It is very roomy! It has a decent technology package. Fuel economy rocks!

Teal N on January 23, 2021

It has a lot of great space!

I love the space it provides when using the first two rows. When adding the third row there is very limited trunk space. As for performance it has been great. Gas mileage is roughly around 18 mile per gallon. Wish it would be a four wheel drive option rather than all wheel drive.

Gail W on January 19, 2021

My car is very reliable, comfortable, and performs pretty well.

My car is reliable. It holds value very well. Dislike that it is just a car, it is not that appealing to me.

Arlene A on January 14, 2021

Affordable and reliable mid size SUV.

The Toyota highlander offers good fuel economy estimates, balanced handling, a smooth and comfortable ride, and a capable engine. It rides smoothly in most roads. It has standard seating for seven in three rows. The cabin is both comfortable and spacious, with a good amount of quality materials throughout. The third row is cramped but easily accessible thanks to the highlander’s sliding and folding second-row bench seat. Cloth upholstery comes standard, and leather upholstery is available in the higher trims.

Nancy n on January 13, 2021

It is reliable and a safe vehicle.

It is comfortable and reliable. I feel it keeps me safe while driving it as well.

Mary H on January 12, 2021

2012 Toyota highlander as family vehicle

Love all the extras and space in the vehicle. Would prefer a bigger engine, but overall great family vehicle

Jane W on January 10, 2021

Toyota Highlander Get Yours Today As You Will Love Every Minute That You Are In It!

I really like my Highlander as it is very comfortable on long trips. The front and the back seats are very roomy. I never feel like I am crammed in my seat. One of my concerns is that you are only able to unlock the Highlander on the driver's side. So if you are a passenger waiting for the driver to get to the vehicle you have to wait until the driver gets to the car. I always found that quite odd and didn't even notice it until we accidentally locked the keys in the car. The other thing that concerns me is the paint job has the hazing over it and makes it look really unkempt. Good gas mileage and a comfortable vehicle to own

Catherine G on January 5, 2021

The gas mileage is not fantastic, but it is very roomy and comfortable to drive!

I like the ability to have multiple passengers in the car or fold down the third row for extra storage space. The car has plenty of space for my family and I, it is my "mom car" and I love it. If there were one thing I had to dislike about my highlander, it would be that, at the time we purchased it, they were not selling any highlanders in the Arizona/southwest region without a sunroof.

Dan K on January 4, 2021

My Toyota fits my lifestyle.

Never needed maintenance in over eight years and 60,000 miles. Performs well, regularly used for towing toys. Comfortable in every way, this is my third highlander. I use it for 1000 mile trips, and for toms of weekend road adventures, and take it off road into the woods and lakes for camping.

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.