Is Toyota Highlander A Good Car

When you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle your family’s needs, one question often comes to mind: is toyota highlander a good car? As a three-row family hauler, the Toyota Highlander promises the brand’s renowned reliability applied to the challenges of passenger and cargo space. This article will give you a clear, detailed look at its strengths and weaknesses.

We will examine its performance, safety, comfort, and value. By the end, you’ll have the information you need to decide if it’s the right SUV for your lifestyle.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a very good car, especially for families prioritizing reliability, safety, and comfort. It consistently earns top marks from reviewers and owners alike. Its reputation is built on a foundation of durable engineering and practical design.

It may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, but it excels at its core mission. It gets you and your passengers where you need to go, comfortably and without fuss. For many buyers, that is the definition of a good vehicle.

Key Strengths Of The Toyota Highlander

Outstanding predicted reliability and strong resale value.
Top-tier safety scores and a comprehensive suite of standard driver aids.
Smooth, comfortable ride quality for daily commuting and long trips.
Spacious, well-built interior with user-friendly technology.
Available fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.

Potential Considerations

Third-row seating is best suited for children or short trips.
Less cargo space behind the third row than some rivals.
Base engine can feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded.
Infotainment system, while improved, isn’t the most cutting-edge.

Reliability And Ownership Costs

Toyota’s reputation for reliability is a major draw, and the Highlander upholds this legacy. It consistently receives high marks from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. This long-term dependability translates directly into peace of mind and lower cost of ownership.

You can expect fewer unexpected repairs compared to many competitors. Toyota’s widespread dealership network also makes routine maintenance straightforward. These factors contribute to the Highlander’s exceptional resale value, which is among the best in its class.

Maintenance And Repair Expectations

Toyota’s recommended maintenance schedule is clear and manageable. The costs for routine services like oil changes and tire rotations are competitive. Because of its reliable components, major repairs are less frequent, helping you save money over the years you own it.

Warranty Coverage

Every new Highlander comes with Toyota’s standard warranty package. This includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The hybrid components on the Highlander Hybrid have even longer coverage, typically 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Safety Features And Ratings

Safety is a paramount concern for families, and the Highlander delivers. It has earned top ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Its robust structure and advanced safety systems provide excellent protection.

Every Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. This proactive approach to safety helps prevent accidents before they happen, adding an extra layer of security for you and your loved ones.

Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Can automatically apply the brakes if a potential frontal collision is detected.
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns you if you unintentionally drift from your lane and can provide gentle steering correction.
Automatic High Beams: Switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic.
Road Sign Assist: Displays recognized road signs on the instrument cluster.

Performance And Driving Experience

The Highlander focuses on comfort and composure over sporty handling. The ride is smooth and insulated, absorbing bumps effectively to keep passengers comfortable. The cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, making conversations easy.

Two powertrains are available. The standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most situations, though it can feel strained with a full load. The available hybrid powertrain pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for more responsive low-end torque and superior fuel economy.

Engine Options And Fuel Economy

Gasoline (L4 Turbo): 265 horsepower. EPA-estimated 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (FWD).
Hybrid: 243 net horsepower. EPA-estimated 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway (AWD models).

The hybrid model is a standout, offering the best fuel efficiency in the class for a three-row SUV. Its seamless transition between gas and electric power is impressive. For many buyers, the hybrid’s extra efficiency makes it the smarter choice, especially with fluctuating fuel prices.

Interior Comfort, Space, And Technology

Step inside the Highlander, and you’ll find a cabin that feels solid and well-assembled. Materials are generally good for the class, with soft-touch surfaces where they matter most. The layout is logical, with physical knobs for climate control alongside the touchscreen.

Front and second-row seats offer plenty of space and support for adults. The second-row captain’s chairs available on higher trims add a touch of luxury and easier access to the third row. However, like most midsize SUVs, the third row is best left for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys.

Infotainment And Connectivity

An 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen sits in the center of the dash. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a major convenience. It also includes multiple USB ports to keep everyone’s devices charged.

Cargo Practicality

With all seats in use, cargo space behind the third row is limited to about 16 cubic feet—enough for a few grocery bags or backpacks. Folding the third-row seats flat opens up 48 cubic feet, and folding both the second and third rows creates a generous 84 cubic feet of space. The power liftgate is standard, making loading easier.

Trim Levels And Value

The Highlander is offered in several trim levels, from the well-equipped base L to the luxurious Platinum. Even the base model comes with a impressive list of standard features, including the full Toyota Safety Sense suite, three-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen.

Moving up through the trims adds amenities like leather upholstery, a larger screen, a panoramic sunroof, a digital rearview mirror, and a premium JBL audio system. The hybrid model is available across most trim levels, giving you the choice of efficiency without sacrificing features.

Which Trim Offers The Best Value?

For many shoppers, the mid-range XLE trim hits the sweet spot. It adds desirable features like softex-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring. The XLE provides a significant upgrade in comfort and convenience over the base L without reaching the price point of the higher trims.

Comparison With Key Competitors

How does the Highlander stack up against other popular three-row SUVs? It holds its own by emphasizing different strengths.

Honda Pilot: The Pilot often has a more spacious third row and cargo area. The Highlander typically counters with better fuel economy (especially as a hybrid) and higher predicted reliability ratings.
Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers more powerful engine options and sportier handling. The Highlander provides a smoother, quieter ride and a more straightforward, user-friendly interior layout.
Kia Telluride/Hyundai Palisade: These twins are praised for their upscale interiors and generous feature lists. The Highlander fights back with its stronger reputation for long-term reliability and better resale value.
Mazda CX-90: The CX-90 prioritizes driving dynamics and a premium feel. The Highlander focuses on family-friendly practicality and its proven hybrid system.

Common Criticisms From Owners

No vehicle is perfect, and the Highlander has a few common points of feedback from owners. Acknowledging these helps give a balanced perspective.

Some drivers wish for more power from the base turbo engine, especially when passing or merging on the highway with a full load. The infotainment system, while functional, can sometimes feel a step behind in speed and graphics compared to some rivals. The third-row seat, as mentioned, is quite cramped for adult-sized passengers.

A minor but noted point is that some interior storage bins could be more usefully sized. Also, the wireless phone charger can be slow and phones may overheat if not positioned perfectly. These are small trade-offs in an otherwise highly capable vehicle.

Who Is The Highlander Best Suited For?

The Toyota Highlander is an ideal choice for a specific set of buyers. If your priorities align with its strengths, it could be the perfect fit for your family.

The Ideal Highlander Buyer

Families who value safety and reliability above all else.
Those who plan to keep their vehicle for many years and want minimal hassle.
Drivers who prefer a comfortable, easygoing ride over sporty performance.
Shoppers who want the option of exceptional fuel economy from the hybrid model.
Buyers who appreciate straightforward technology and intuitive controls.

If you frequently need to carry more than five adults or require maximum cargo space with all seats up, you might want to look at a minivan or a larger SUV like the Chevrolet Suburban. But for the vast majority of family needs, the Highlander’s package is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Toyota Highlander Reliable?

Yes, the Toyota Highlander is considered one of the most reliable three-row SUVs on the market. It consistently receives high scores from reliability experts like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, contributing to its excellent resale value.

What Are The Main Problems With The Toyota Highlander?

While generally very reliable, some model years have had minor issues. These can include complaints about the infotainment system, occasional wind noise, or the feel of the base engine. It’s always wise to check reviews for the specific model year you’re considering.

Is The Highlander Or The Honda Pilot Better?

This depends on your priorities. The Pilot often has more interior space, while the Highlander typically offers better fuel economy (especially as a hybrid) and stronger predicted reliability. Test driving both is the best way to decide which suits you better.

How Many Miles Will A Toyota Highlander Last?

With proper maintenance, a Toyota Highlander can easily last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. There are many reports of Highlanders reaching these high mileage marks with routine care, thanks to Toyota’s durable engineering.

Is The Highlander Worth The Money?

For buyers seeking a dependable, safe, and comfortable family SUV with low long-term costs, the Highlander is absolutely worth the money. Its strong resale value and reputation for reliability help offset its initial purchase price over time.