The Toyota Highlander, a mid-size SUV, has been a standout in its class since its debut in 2001, offering a blend of functionality, comfort, and reliability. Over the years, the Highlander has evolved, incorporating modern design, cutting-edge technology, and advanced safety features, all while maintaining the quality and dependability that Toyota is known for. Its appeal spans a broad demographic—families who need extra space, professionals seeking a comfortable daily driver, and eco-conscious individuals looking for hybrid options. The Highlander stands out for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and family-friendly features, making it a top contender for anyone in the market for a mid-size SUV.
The Toyota Highlander offers a range of options, from a traditional gasoline-powered model to a fuel-efficient hybrid variant. It’s known for its well-rounded attributes, including its ample cargo space, an extensive suite of safety features, and a reputation for reliability. However, the Highlander isn’t without its limitations. Some critics point to its cramped third-row seating, higher price tag compared to competitors, and a somewhat bland driving experience, especially for those who prioritize performance over comfort.
This article will delve deeply into the pros and cons of the Toyota Highlander, providing a comprehensive guide for prospective buyers. We will explore 11 key benefits that the Highlander offers, from its spacious interior to its hybrid model’s fuel efficiency, as well as 10 drawbacks, such as its limited off-road capabilities and higher cost of ownership. This detailed breakdown will help you assess whether the Highlander aligns with your needs and lifestyle.
Pros Of Toyota Highlander
1. Spacious And Comfortable Interior
The Toyota Highlander offers a roomy and comfortable interior, making it ideal for families and long road trips. The first two rows of seating are particularly spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for adults. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, offering excellent support for extended drives. In higher trims, the interior is outfitted with premium materials like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and even a panoramic sunroof, providing an upscale feel that rivals some luxury SUVs. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Highlander ensures that large families or groups can travel in comfort.
The second-row captain’s chairs (available on higher trims) further enhance passenger comfort, creating more space and easier access to the third row. Overall, the Highlander’s interior design focuses on providing a pleasant experience for both the driver and passengers, with plenty of storage compartments for personal items, and thoughtful touches like multiple USB ports for charging devices.
2. Excellent Safety Features
Toyota is known for prioritizing safety, and the Highlander exemplifies this commitment. Every Highlander model comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect both drivers and passengers. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and pre-collision detection with pedestrian and cyclist detection. These tools not only help prevent accidents but also make driving less stressful, especially in urban environments or on long trips.
In addition to these driver-assist technologies, the Highlander has earned high safety ratings from organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This strong focus on safety makes the Highlander an excellent choice for families who prioritize keeping their loved ones safe on the road.
3. Smooth And Comfortable Ride
The Toyota Highlander is designed to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride, whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating through city streets. Its suspension system is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections, ensuring a comfortable experience for passengers even on rough surfaces. The ride quality is further enhanced by the vehicle’s quiet cabin, which effectively blocks out road noise and creates a serene environment. The Highlander’s overall refinement in ride quality makes it an ideal vehicle for long drives, daily commutes, or family vacations, where comfort is paramount.
While it’s not a sporty SUV by any means, the Highlander provides a solid and composed ride. The steering is light and responsive, making the vehicle easy to maneuver, especially in tighter spaces like parking lots or city streets. For most drivers, the Highlander strikes an excellent balance between comfort and capability.
4. Hybrid Option For Fuel Efficiency
One of the standout features of the Toyota Highlander is the availability of a hybrid model, which combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors to deliver up to 243 horsepower. The hybrid version of the Highlander offers impressive fuel efficiency, particularly for a mid-size SUV, achieving up to 36 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. This makes it an appealing option for eco-conscious drivers or anyone looking to reduce fuel costs.
The hybrid model doesn’t sacrifice performance for fuel efficiency. It provides smooth acceleration and responsive handling, making it a viable option for those who want to save on fuel without compromising the driving experience. The Highlander Hybrid also has the advantage of Toyota’s reputation for hybrid reliability, which adds peace of mind for those considering this more environmentally friendly option.
5. Strong Resale Value
Toyota vehicles, in general, are known for their excellent resale value, and the Highlander is no exception. Due to its reputation for reliability, low maintenance costs, and durability, the Highlander tends to hold its value better than many competitors. This strong resale value makes the Highlander a smart investment for buyers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicle after several years. Whether you keep it for a few years or a decade, you’re likely to get a good return on your investment when it comes time to sell.
This is especially important for buyers who consider total cost of ownership when purchasing a vehicle. The Highlander’s strong resale value means that even though the initial price may be higher, the long-term financial benefits can make up for the upfront cost.
6. Flexible Cargo Space
The Toyota Highlander offers plenty of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who frequently carries large loads. With all three rows in use, the Highlander provides about 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. However, when you fold down the third and second rows, the cargo capacity expands to a generous 84 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or home improvement materials.
This flexibility is one of the Highlander’s key advantages over some smaller SUVs. Whether you’re going on a long road trip or need to haul large items, the Highlander’s cargo area can accommodate a variety of needs. The power liftgate (available on higher trims) also makes it easier to load and unload items, adding to the vehicle’s convenience.
7. User-Friendly Infotainment System
The Highlander comes equipped with Toyota’s Entune infotainment system, which is designed to be both intuitive and feature-rich. The base model includes an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offer a larger 12.3-inch display. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, making it easy to connect your smartphone for music, navigation, and hands-free calls.
The interface is user-friendly, with responsive controls and a straightforward menu system. Physical buttons and knobs for commonly used functions like climate control and volume make it easy to adjust settings without being distracted while driving. The infotainment system also includes built-in navigation on higher trims, as well as an available premium JBL sound system for those who value high-quality audio.
8. Impressive Fuel Economy For A Mid-Size SUV
Even if you opt for the non-hybrid version, the Highlander offers competitive fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. The standard V6 engine delivers around 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway, which is above average for the mid-size SUV segment. This makes the Highlander a good choice for drivers who want the space and capability of an SUV without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel efficiency.
The fuel efficiency, combined with the vehicle’s large fuel tank, gives the Highlander an impressive driving range, making it a practical choice for long trips or daily commuting without frequent stops at the gas station.
9. All-Wheel Drive Option
The Highlander is available with all-wheel drive (AWD), making it a versatile option for drivers who frequently face adverse weather conditions or rugged terrain. The AWD system improves traction and stability on slippery roads, whether you’re dealing with rain, snow, or ice. It also provides better off-road capability than the standard front-wheel-drive model, although the Highlander is not designed for serious off-roading.
The AWD option is particularly beneficial for drivers in regions with harsh winters, as it enhances control and confidence in challenging driving conditions. The system also features a Multi-Terrain Select mode, which allows drivers to choose between different traction settings based on the road surface, further improving performance in various conditions.
10. Family-Friendly Features
The Toyota Highlander is designed with families in mind, offering a range of features that make it an excellent choice for parents and children alike. Multiple USB ports, tri-zone climate control, and second-row sunshades are just a few of the amenities that make the Highlander a practical option for family use. The available second-row captain’s chairs make it easier to access the third row, while rear-seat entertainment options can keep children occupied on long trips.
In terms of safety, the Highlander’s standard Toyota Safety Sense features provide an extra layer of protection for families, with advanced driver-assist systems designed to prevent accidents. Child seat anchor points are conveniently located, and the Highlander’s high safety ratings make it a top pick for families looking for peace of mind on the road.
11. Toyota Reliability And Durability
Toyota’s reputation for building reliable and durable vehicles extends to the Highlander, making it a dependable choice for long-term ownership. The Highlander requires fewer repairs and less maintenance compared to many of its competitors, which can save owners time and money over the life of the vehicle. Whether you plan to keep the Highlander for a few years or a decade, you can trust that it will remain reliable and perform well throughout its lifespan.
Cons Of Toyota Highlander
1. Cramped Third-Row Seating
While the Toyota Highlander can seat up to eight passengers, the third-row seats are best suited for children or shorter adults. The legroom and headroom in the third row are relatively limited compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot, making it uncomfortable for adults on long trips. This can be a drawback for families who regularly need to transport more than five passengers.
If you frequently need full use of the third row, you might want to consider alternatives with more spacious seating configurations.
2. Higher Starting Price
The Toyota Highlander tends to have a higher starting price than some of its direct competitors in the mid-size SUV segment. While the base model comes with a solid list of standard features, buyers looking for more luxury or advanced technology options will need to pay a premium. This higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers who are comparing multiple options in the same category.
Although the Highlander’s strong resale value can offset some of the higher upfront costs, it’s still worth considering whether the additional expense is justified based on your needs.
3. Uninspiring Driving Experience
While the Toyota Highlander excels in comfort and practicality, it is not known for offering an exhilarating driving experience. The handling is competent but not particularly sporty, and the steering can feel somewhat vague at times. For drivers who prioritize a more engaging or dynamic driving experience, the Highlander may feel lackluster compared to sportier mid-size SUVs like the Mazda CX-9.
If you’re looking for an SUV that provides sharp handling and a more exciting driving dynamic, the Highlander may not be the best fit.
4. Limited Off-Road Capabilities
Although the Highlander is available with all-wheel drive and has a Multi-Terrain Select system, it is not built for serious off-road adventures. Its ground clearance and suspension are more suited for urban driving and light off-roading, such as dirt roads or gravel paths. For drivers who need a vehicle capable of handling rugged terrain or extreme off-road conditions, there are better options in the SUV market, such as the Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The Highlander is designed more for comfort and family-friendly driving than for tackling harsh off-road environments.
5. Small Cargo Space Behind The Third Row
With all three rows of seats in use, the cargo space behind the third row is limited to about 16 cubic feet, which is smaller than some competitors. This limited space may be inconvenient for families who need to transport luggage, groceries, or large items while still using all the seating capacity. For those who frequently need a lot of cargo room with all seats occupied, this could be a drawback.
However, folding down the third row provides significantly more cargo space, making it more suitable for carrying larger loads when fewer passengers are on board.
6. Interior Design Feels Dated In Lower Trims
While the higher trims of the Highlander offer luxurious interior materials and finishes, the lower trims can feel somewhat dated in terms of design. The materials used in the base models, while durable, lack the premium feel found in some of the Highlander’s competitors, such as the Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride. For buyers seeking a more modern or upscale interior, the Highlander’s lower trims may fall short.
However, upgrading to higher trims significantly enhances the cabin’s look and feel, offering leather upholstery, wood accents, and more advanced technology.
7. Touchscreen Can Be Slow To Respond
While the Highlander’s infotainment system is generally user-friendly, some users have reported that the touchscreen can be slow to respond, particularly in models equipped with the larger 12.3-inch display. Lagging or delayed touch responses can be frustrating, especially when trying to access navigation or adjust settings while driving.
This issue may not be a dealbreaker, but it’s worth considering if you value seamless tech integration in your vehicle.
8. No Standard Third-Row Seating On All Models
Unlike some of its competitors, the Toyota Highlander does not come standard with third-row seating on all models. Some lower trims feature five-passenger seating, which may require buyers to upgrade to higher trims to gain access to the third row. This can increase the overall cost for families who need the extra seating capacity but want to stick to a lower budget.
If third-row seating is a priority, be sure to check the trim levels carefully to ensure the model you’re considering includes this feature.
9. Heavier Than Some Competitors
The Highlander is heavier than many of its direct competitors, which can impact both fuel efficiency and handling. The additional weight can make the vehicle feel less nimble, particularly when navigating tight turns or accelerating quickly. Drivers who prioritize lightweight and agile performance may find the Highlander less responsive compared to lighter SUVs in the same class.
10. Limited Customization Options
While the Toyota Highlander comes with a solid list of standard features, it offers fewer customization options compared to some of its rivals. Competitors like the Kia Telluride or Ford Explorer offer more opportunities for personalization, whether it’s through interior color schemes, exterior paint options, or package upgrades. For buyers who want a more tailored vehicle, the Highlander’s limited customization options may be a drawback.
Conclusion
The Toyota Highlander stands out in the mid-size SUV market for its reliability, safety, and family-friendly features. Its spacious interior, strong resale value, and hybrid option make it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable family vehicle or a dependable daily driver, the Highlander delivers a well-rounded experience.
However, it’s essential to consider the Highlander’s limitations. The cramped third-row seating, higher base price, and somewhat uninspiring driving dynamics may not meet everyone’s needs. For those who prioritize a more engaging driving experience, more off-road capability, or greater cargo space with all seats in use, alternatives may offer a better fit.
Ultimately, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice for buyers seeking a reliable, safe, and spacious SUV. By weighing the pros and cons, you can determine if the Highlander aligns with your lifestyle and expectations, ensuring a satisfying vehicle ownership experience.