The Best Years For Toyota Highlander And Some To Avoid

The Toyota Highlander is a mainstay in the mid-size SUV market, known for its reliability, practicality, and family-friendly features. Choosing the right year model can make all the difference, ensuring you get the best value and minimize potential issues. This guide will help you navigate the Highlander's history, highlighting the best years and those to potentially avoid.

Toyota Highlander: Year-by-Year Breakdown

Detailed Explanations

1st Generation (2001-2007):

• Pioneering crossover SUV: The first-generation Highlander was a groundbreaking vehicle, blending the practicality of an SUV with the comfort and handling of a car. It was one of the first mainstream crossovers, paving the way for many models to follow.
• Good reliability for its age: While older vehicles require more maintenance, the first-generation Highlander is known for its relatively robust mechanical components, making it a decent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
• Available V6 engine: The V6 engine provided ample power and smooth performance, making it a desirable option for those who needed extra towing capability or simply preferred a more responsive driving experience.
• Older technology: Being an older vehicle, the first-generation Highlander lacks many of the modern safety and infotainment features found in newer models.
• Potential for age-related wear and tear: As with any vehicle of this age, potential buyers should be prepared for age-related issues such as worn suspension components, leaky seals, and other common problems.
• Rust concerns in some regions: Depending on the climate and maintenance history, rust can be a concern, especially in areas with heavy salt usage during winter.
• Facelifted design (2004-2007): The facelifted models received updated styling, both inside and out, giving them a more modern appearance.
• Improved safety features (2004-2007): The facelifted models also benefited from improved safety features, such as enhanced airbags and stability control systems.
• Available hybrid model (2006-2007): The hybrid version offered improved fuel economy, making it a good choice for environmentally conscious buyers.
• Increased repair costs due to age: Repair costs tend to increase as vehicles age, so potential buyers should factor this into their budget.
• Potential for high mileage: Many first-generation Highlanders have accumulated high mileage, which can increase the risk of mechanical problems.
• Hybrid battery life in early models: The lifespan of the hybrid battery in early models can be a concern, and replacement can be expensive.

2nd Generation (2008-2013):

• Larger size: The second-generation Highlander was significantly larger than its predecessor, offering more interior space and cargo capacity.
• More comfortable ride: The redesigned suspension and chassis provided a more comfortable and refined ride.
• Available third-row seating: The third-row seating made the Highlander a more versatile option for families with children.
• Strong V6 engine: The V6 engine continued to be a strong performer, providing ample power for everyday driving and towing.
• Some reports of oil consumption in early models: Some owners reported excessive oil consumption in the early years of the second generation, which should be investigated before purchasing.
• Potential for higher repair costs as they age: As with any older vehicle, repair costs can increase with age.
• Refreshed styling (2011-2013): The refreshed models received updated styling, both inside and out, giving them a more modern appearance.
• Improved fuel economy (2011-2013): The refreshed models also benefited from improved fuel economy, thanks to engine and transmission enhancements.
• Enhanced safety features (2011-2013): The refreshed models included enhanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
• Potential for higher price compared to earlier models: The refreshed models typically command a higher price on the used market.
• Some reports of transmission issues (though less frequent): While not as common as oil consumption, some owners reported transmission issues with the second-generation Highlander.

3rd Generation (2014-2019):

• Modern design: The third-generation Highlander featured a more modern and stylish design, both inside and out.
• Improved interior quality: The interior materials and build quality were significantly improved compared to previous generations.
• Better handling: The redesigned suspension and chassis provided improved handling and driving dynamics.
• Available Driver Easy Speak system: The Driver Easy Speak system allowed the driver to amplify their voice through the rear speakers, making it easier to communicate with passengers in the back.
• Some reports of infotainment system glitches: Some owners reported occasional glitches with the infotainment system, such as screen freezes and connectivity issues.
• Potential for wind noise at higher speeds: Some owners reported excessive wind noise at higher speeds, which could be a nuisance on long trips.
• Facelifted design (2017-2019): The facelifted models received updated styling, a more powerful V6 engine, and added safety features.
• More powerful V6 engine (2017-2019): The updated V6 engine offered increased horsepower and torque, improving performance.
• Added safety features (Toyota Safety Sense P standard): The facelifted models came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, a suite of advanced safety features including pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
• Higher price point compared to earlier years: The facelifted models command a higher price on the used market due to their updated features and styling.
• Some reports of transmission issues in the 2017 model year: While generally reliable, some owners reported transmission issues specifically with the 2017 model year. Thorough inspection and test driving are recommended.

4th Generation (2020-Present):

• Completely redesigned: The fourth-generation Highlander was completely redesigned, featuring a new platform, updated styling, and improved technology.
• More fuel-efficient engine options: The fourth-generation Highlander offered more fuel-efficient engine options, including a hybrid model.
• Improved safety features: The fourth-generation Highlander came standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
• Modern technology: The fourth-generation Highlander featured the latest technology, including a large touchscreen infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance systems.
• Some reports of infotainment system issues: Some owners reported occasional glitches with the infotainment system, such as screen freezes and connectivity issues.
• Smaller third-row seating compared to previous generations: The third-row seating in the fourth-generation Highlander is smaller than in previous generations, making it less suitable for adults.
• Turbocharged engine replaces V6 (2023-2024): Toyota replaced the V6 engine with a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
• Updated technology (2023-2024): The latest models feature even more updated technology and features.
• Continued focus on safety and fuel efficiency (2023-2024): The latest models continue to prioritize safety and fuel efficiency.
• Long-term reliability of the new turbocharged engine is still being assessed: The long-term reliability of the new turbocharged engine is still unknown.
• Potential for higher repair costs with newer technology: Newer technology can be more complex and expensive to repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which Toyota Highlander year is the most reliable? The 2018 and 2019 models are often cited as the most reliable, offering a good balance of features, performance, and dependability.
• Are there any Highlander years I should avoid? The early years of each generation (e.g., 2008-2010, 2014-2016) may have some initial issues that were later resolved.
• How long do Toyota Highlanders typically last? With proper maintenance, a Toyota Highlander can easily last 200,000 miles or more.
• What is Toyota Safety Sense? Toyota Safety Sense is a suite of active safety features designed to help prevent accidents, including pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
• Is the Highlander a good family vehicle? Yes, the Highlander is an excellent family vehicle due to its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong safety ratings.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for a Toyota Highlander depends on your individual needs and budget. The 2018 and 2019 models are considered highly reliable, while the newer generations offer more modern features and technology. Always conduct thorough research and inspection before making a purchase to ensure you get the best value and minimize potential issues.