The midsize SUV is one of the most competitive in the automotive sector. The Toyota Highlander is one of the most popular cars for those customers who want long-term ownership. The Toyota Highlander was launched in 2001 and is based on the Camry platform.
The car’s success on the road did not translate into off-road capability as this vehicle had been based on the Camry platform. The Highlander was Toyota’s best-selling sport utility vehicle until the RAV4 stole that title in 2006.
Additionally, Toyota set a record in the United States for Highlander sales of more than 250,000 units during 2018. Though Highlander is one of the best, there are weaknesses as well. This car is specially designed to be a capable SUV on highways and also a good SUV for off-road trails. Per the previous owner’s review, this car can quickly reach 200k miles with the same powerful performance. This article will discuss the best and worst years of the Toyota Highlander.
The Best and Worst Year For Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Comparison
We’ll show you every generation of Highlander from 2001 to now, and then we’ll identify the best models for buying as used or avoided.
1) First-Generation Of Toyota Highlander (2001-2007)
- Best Year:- 2006-2007
- Worst Year:- 2003-2005
The first generation of this car was introduced in 2001. Unlike other SUVs, this car manufacturer focuses on on-road experience instead of off-road chops like other SUVs. This is because of its unibody construction design and four-wheel independent suspension.
The standard version of Highlander comes with a 2.4L I4 engine which produces 155 hp, 163 lb.-ft. Of torque, and had a max towing capacity of 3,000 lbs. A four-speed automatic transmission with “snow mode” was offered on the Highlander.
Also, they offer a 3.0L V6 engine that produces 220 hp, 222 lb.-ft. Of torque and increased the max towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. The larger V6 had three more mpg than the inline-four with a combined 18 and 22 mpg. The choice of standard FWD or optional AWD was also available to buyers.
The 2006-2007 models are best because of their reliability and some features like standard rollover sensors and side airbags. As per many customers’ reviews, 2003-2005 models are the worst for them because Overheating caused by a coolant leak was expected, which could call for a total engine replacement, costing buyers around $3,200.
2) Second-Generation Of Toyota Highlander (2008-2013)
- Best Year:- 2009-2013
- Worst Years:- 2008
In this generation Toyota developed a 3.5 liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 248 joules of torque standard for the Highlander. The new engine will have an automatic and 5 speed manual transmission with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. In combination, the two cars achieve 19 mpg.
The second generation of Highlander started in 2008. This Year is also the worst for customers because of the problems that customers face.
According to the NHTSA, the 2008 model was recalled 13 times and had over 300 complaints. The main reason for this recall is Three times for imperfect labels, twice for Airbags, twice for melting window switches, twice for the seat heater that could catch fire, twice for exhaust tips slipping off, and one time each for seatbelts and accelerators. Although Toyota learned from its mistakes and improved its services in upcoming models. If you are experiencing repeated issues with your Toyota Highlander not functioning as it should, Valerie Campbell can assist you in getting it repurchased, replaced, or repaired.
Highlander 2009, which was given positive feedback from both critics and owners. It’s been awarded the Car complaints Seal of Awesome, and its mechanical problems have been minor and easy to fix. Many journalists rated 2013 as a very reliable and dependable year.
CR claims that, in particular, because of its body integrity, the 2013 Highlander has a very low incidence of problems like roof trim and rubber moldings.
3) Third-generation Of Toyota Highlander (2014-2019)
- Best Year:- 2017-2019
- Average Year:- 2014-2016
In this third generation, unsurprisingly, Toyota increased its size and weight, and now eight passengers can sit in this new model. This new car has some similarities with the previous generation. Similarities included a standard six-speed automatic transmission, FWD, optional all-wheel drive, 2.7L I4 engine, 3.5L V6, max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, and exceptional safety. For 2014, Toyota found an additional 3 mpg for the Highlander, bringing the base FWD version to 22 mpg combined.
It’s reasonably reliable, in particular for a 3rd generation vehicle. NHTSA has received less than 100 complaints in the last few model years. That’s not to say that there were no problems with the Highlander. The tailgate is the most troublesome of all. If the owner tries to unlock it, it won’t open. The tailgates have generally proved to be the worst of them. If the owner attempts to unlock it, it won’t open.
Another frequent problem is a fuel pump, Toyota managed to resolve it with the recall. Owners don’t have much trouble with this generation. These are the best model years because of Toyota’s direct fuel injection system in 2017, 2018, and 2019 and a slightly better crash rating.
4) Fourth-Generation Of Toyota Highlander (2020- Present)
- Best Year:- 2020-Present
The present generation was launched in 2020 with the new GA-K platform. This new platform improves the ride and handling. Also, more features are added, like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, cargo space, and Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ standard on all models.
The engine introduced in this generation is a 3.5L V6 engine paired with an eight-speed transmission standard. This engine is rated at a combined mpg of 23 or 24 for the FWD and AWD variants, respectively.
This generation is more reliable than the previous generation because it gets very few complaints from the NHTSA. The only problem noticed in this generation was that the fuel tank would only fill up partially. But soon, Toyota will announce a fix for this issue shortly.
The new Highlander continues on a safety theme and has been awarded the IIHS’s Best Safety Pick of 2020 and its Top Safety Pick+ for 2021. It scored a “good” in every category except for the headlights.
Top 3 Reasons the Why Best Year for Toyota Highlander
1. Enhanced Performance
The Highlander has been equipped with a new 3.5 liter V6 engine delivering more power and torque than its predecessor. The new engine was also fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which enhanced fuel economy and enabled a smooth shift. The new Sport Tuned Suspension System was introduced, which allows the Highlander to be more agile and responsive on the road in 2017.
2. Redesigned Exterior
The Highlander was designed with a more aggressive and modern appearance to stand out from previous generations. Sharper lines, a bold front grille, LED headlights, and tail lamps enhanced the car’s premium look.
3. Roomy and Comfortable Interior
The interior of the Highlander had a large, comfortable cabin with ample room for passengers and cargo. Adjusting the 2nd and 3rd-row seats allowed you to select a suitable seat configuration. The place is made of good quality materials, and the seats are comfortable to drive.
Conclusion
Finally, the best Year to buy a Toyota Highlander can vary depending on personal preferences and needs. On the other hand, after analyzing a range of factors including reliability, safety, efficiency and affordability, Toyota Highlander in 2020 has been ranked as one of the best years for this popular midsize sport utility vehicle. It also has a pleasant ride and excellent handling, making it ideal for daily and long journeys with its powerful V6 engine.
Regarding affordability, the 2020-present Highlander comes at a reasonable starting price compared to its rivals in this segment. In addition, it has good resale value and is likely to retain its value over time. Overall, the 2020-present Toyota Highlander’s reliability, security, performance, and affordability combine to make it the best Year, this popular sport utility vehicle.
FAQ Regarding The Best Year for Toyota Highlander
Q.1) What makes a Toyota Highlander year the best?
The best Toyota Highlander year typically offers performance, reliability, safety, and value. Factors such as fuel efficiency, towing capacity, interior features, and advanced safety technology can also contribute to a year being considered the best.
Q.2) How can I find the best year for Toyota Highlander?
Research and comparison are to find the best year for Toyota Highlander. Look for reviews and ratings from reputable sources, and compare features and performance across multiple model years.
Q.3) What are some common issues to watch out for when shopping for a used Toyota Highlander?
One common issue is a failing transmission, which may result in jerky or delayed shifting. Additionally, some older model years may have issues with rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters or exposure to salt on the roads.
