How high does a Toyota Highlander sit off the ground?
The Toyota Highlander sits about 8 inches off the ground (roughly 203 millimeters). This typical figure can vary slightly by trim, tire size, and load.
Ground clearance influences entry height, approach angles, and how the vehicle handles rough roads or speed bumps. This article examines the official specs, how trims and tires can shift the actual height, and what that means for everyday driving.
What determines the Highlander's ground clearance
The Highlander's ride height is a fixed measurement from the ground to the lowest point on the undercarriage under standard operating conditions. It can vary slightly with load (passengers and cargo), tire size, and suspension wear. Toyota's official spec lists a uniform clearance for the current model year across most trims.
Current model figures and how they stack up
Here are the typical clearance figures for current Highlander models. Note: these values assume standard tires and typical loads; real-world figures may vary slightly.
- Standard gasoline Highlander: 8.0 inches (203 mm) ground clearance.
- Hybrid Highlander: 8.0 inches (203 mm).
- Wheel and tire variations: With common options (18–20 inch wheels), ride height remains about 8.0 inches; very large or aftermarket tires can shift height by a few millimeters.
- Drivetrain configuration: Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models share the same approximate ground clearance.
Conclusion: For most buyers, the Highlander maintains an 8-inch clearance, with minor variations based on tires and load.
Practical implications for buyers and drivers
Knowing the ground clearance helps when planning parking garage use, entering driveways, and negotiating speed bumps. It also informs decisions about tire upgrades, wheel sizes, and any aftermarket suspension components tied to off-road use.
Off-road capability considerations
Although the Highlander is a family SUV rather than a dedicated off-roader, its 8.0-inch clearance provides adequate capability for light off-roading and rough paved surfaces. Drivers should observe the approach/departure angles and avoid steep obstacles that could scrape the undercarriage.
Shopping notes: what to measure
When shopping used Highlanders, check the suspension and wheel-tire package, as worn shocks or oversized tires can alter ride height. If you require precise clearance for a garage or driveway, measure with the current tires installed and the vehicle unloaded.
Historical context and quick reference
Across generations, the Highlander has maintained a similar ground clearance profile around 8.0 inches, with small variations by model year and configuration. This consistency reflects its unibody construction and design focus on family comfort rather than extreme off-road capability.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander sits roughly 8 inches off the ground, with minor variations by trim, tire size, and load. The figure is consistent across current gasoline and hybrid models, making it straightforward for buyers to gauge ride height for garage access, speed bumps, and light-duty terrain.
Is 11 inches of ground clearance good?
Challenging terrain, such as rock climbing, would require at least 11 inches of clearance from the differential housing. Sedans and hatchbacks generally have better fuel efficiency and handling characteristics due to how far they are from the ground.
Which Toyota car has the highest ground clearance?
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro has the highest ground clearance at 11.1 inches. Other models with high ground clearance include the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 and the Toyota Fortuner, which have 9.26 and 8.86 inches, respectively. The Toyota Tacoma with the double cab also offers up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance.
Highest ground clearance Toyota models
- Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro: 11.1 inches
- Toyota Tacoma (Double Cab): 11.5 inches
- Toyota Land Cruiser LC300: 9.26 inches
- Toyota Fortuner: 8.86 inches
What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?
Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders.
Current and recent lawsuits
- Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items.
- Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org.
- Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity.
- Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning.
- Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org.
How to proceed
- Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
- Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
- Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement.
- Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants.
How high does a Highlander sit off the ground?
The Toyota Highlander's ground clearance (height from the ground) is approximately 8 inches. This measurement applies to recent model years, including the 2024, 2025, and 2026 versions of the standard Highlander and Highlander Hybrid.
- Ground Clearance: 8.0 inches
- Note: This figure is consistent across recent model years, such as the 2024, 2025, and 2026 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid.
- Comparison: While its ground clearance is considered moderate for an SUV, it is designed more for on-road family use rather than extreme off-road terrain.
