Suppose you're looking for a solid family SUV with good fuel economy, a roomy cabin, and a reputation for years of trouble-free service and exceptional resale value. In that case, the Toyota Highlander deserves your full attention. Over its many generations, the Highlander has changed to accommodate the needs of growing families, both in size and number. Commonalities over the years include a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, 4- and 6-cylinder engine options, the latest in-cabin technology, and excellent safety and crash-test scores. Those needing better fuel economy should look to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, while buyers searching for more interior space should check out the Toyota Grand Highlander, both reviewed separately.
Toyota Highlander Generations
Toyota Highlander (4th Generation: 2020 - Current)
Key Improvements: The fourth-generation Highlander makes a number of improvements over the model it replaces. There's more interior space and a better infotainment setup featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Larger touchscreen options, an available digital rearview mirror camera, and more places to recharge devices are also here. You’ll find more standard safety systems, part of the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite that includes adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety systems like a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic assist make their way to more trims, and the standard content improves across six possible trim choices: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. The 2020 model debuts with a 295-horsepower V6, dropped in 2023 and replaced by a turbocharged 4-cylinder with less horsepower but more torque.
Model Updates: For 2021, the Highlander gains an upgraded TSS 2.5+ driver-assist suite with more features like intersection assist and emergency steering assist. LED headlights become standard, and the XSE trim is added. The 2023 Highlander gets a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, a hands-free liftgate for XLE/XSE trims, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen on Limited and Platinum trims. 2024 sees the base L trim removed from the lineup.
Toyota Highlander (3rd Generation: 2014 - 2019)
Key Improvements: The third-generation Highlander increases in size, offering accommodations for up to eight passengers vs. the previous generation’s limit of seven. The styling is more dynamic, and more options are added, but the 4- and 6-cylinder engine choices carry over without much change until 2017 when the V6 gets about 25 more horsepower. There are more driver-assists, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, automatic high-beams, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic detection. The Entune infotainment system has a more extensive touchscreen interface but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. New features include heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic moonroof, a 120-volt A/C outlet, Driver Easy-Speak intercom, a memory driver’s seat, and a heated steering wheel.
Model Updates: The 2017 Highlander gets a major refresh. Its new face features a larger grille, a more powerful V6 engine, and an 8-speed automatic transmission (replacing the previous 6-speed). The Toyota Safety Sense driver-assist suite is made standard.
Toyota Highlander (2nd Generation: 2008 - 2013)
Key Improvements: The second-generation Highlander is much larger than the original, offering more interior space with a standard third-row seat. During this time, Toyota offers two engine choices: a 187-hp 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6. It has a more modern infotainment system, with some trims providing a touchscreen interface. The second row features a clever interchangeable middle seat or center console. New features include a flip-up rear liftgate window, a power liftgate, three-zone automatic air conditioning, proximity key fob entry and start, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
Model Updates: For 2009, a 4-cylinder 2.7-liter engine joins the lineup. The 2010 Highlander offers more base trim features and a rear backup camera on V6 models. 2011 sees a revised front end and standard 3-row seating with rear climate controls.
Toyota Highlander (1st Generation: 2001 - 2007)
The original Highlander offers three-row seating but in a smaller package than the generations that followed. Based on the Toyota Camry platform, the Highlander provides a more car-like ride and handling. Four- and 6-cylinder engine choices can be paired with AWD. Highlights for the original Highlander include an optional third-row seat, heated front seats, JBL audio, touchscreen DVD navigation, two-row side curtain airbags, and leather upholstery.
Toyota Highlander Buying Tips
Do you need help choosing the right Toyota Highlander? Autotrader provides expert automotive advice to ensure you purchase the perfect vehicle.