How many generations of the Toyota Highlander are there?
There are four generations. This article outlines the timeline and the defining shifts for each generation from the Highlander’s debut to the current model year.
Generational timeline
The following list highlights each generation with the approximate production years and the core evolution that accompanied it.
- First generation (2001–2007): Introduced as Toyota's mid-size crossover SUV, sharing technology with the Camry, with both four-cylinder and V6 options and front- or all-wheel drive configurations.
- Second generation (2008–2013): A larger, more refined model that improved interior space, safety features, and ride quality while maintaining versatile seating arrangements.
- Third generation (2014–2019): A comprehensive redesign that moved the Highlander into a more upscale segment, offering enhanced efficiency, new safety tech, and the introduction of a hybrid variant later in the generation.
- Fourth generation (2020–present): Built on an all-new platform with modern styling, more tech, improved safety, and new engine options including a turbocharged four-cylinder and multiple hybrid variants.
Note: Production years are approximate and can vary by market. As of 2025, the Highlander is in its fourth generation.
Details by generation
First generation (2001–2007)
The first Highlander established the model as Toyota's family-friendly midsize crossover, combining SUV practicality with the front-wheel-drive bias and optional four-wheel drive of broader Toyota lineups.
Second generation (2008–2013)
Second-generation models grew in size, added interior refinements, and expanded safety and convenience features while maintaining the Highlander's signature versatility and seating options.
Third generation (2014–2019)
The third generation marked a shift toward a more premium cabin, improved efficiency, and the option of a dedicated hybrid powertrain as part of Toyota's broader electrification push.
Fourth generation (2020–present)
The current generation brought a radical redesign, updated technology suite, a choice of turbocharged gasoline engines and hybrids, and a more spacious, feature-rich interior.
Summary: The Toyota Highlander has evolved through four generations to date, reflecting shifts in design language, engineering, and technology from the early 2000s to today.
What is the most reliable year of the Toyota Highlander?
The most reliable Toyota Highlander years include 2006, the late third-generation models (2017-2019), and certain fourth-generation models (2021-2022). Older models like 2008 and some from the 2012-2014 range also stand out as being particularly reliable. The most reliable years are often those that benefited from engineering improvements or were late in a generation's cycle, avoiding early bugs.
Best years for reliability
- 2006: Considered the pinnacle of the first generation, with straightforward engineering and high owner satisfaction.
- 2008: The first year of the second generation, it earned a high reliability score and featured a V6 engine.
- 2017-2019: These years represent the latter part of the third generation after significant updates were made, resulting in a strong and reliable model.
- 2021-2022: These models are part of the fourth generation and have been rated highly for reliability, with many of the initial launch year issues resolved.
Reliable older and newer options
- 2012-2014: These years are noted for being complaint-free.
- 2018: This model year continued the successes of the 2017 refresh, offering a refined package.
- 2023-Present: Newer models are generally reliable, but some initial glitches were reported and fixed with software updates.
How many generations of Toyota Highlander are there?
The fourth-generation Highlander debuted as a 2020 model; for 2024, it was joined by a larger three-row SUV named the Grand Highlander.
What year did the Toyota Highlander change body styles?
The Toyota Highlander has been redesigned in major overhaul years like 2008, 2014, and 2020. The latest redesign is for the 2020 model year, which continues through the current 2025 model year, with the next significant redesign expected for the 2026 model year. Toyota also implemented significant mid-cycle refresh updates during other years, such as in 2017 and 2023 for the Grand Highlander.
This video discusses the upcoming 2026 Toyota Highlander redesign: 1mTheAutoReportYouTube · Jun 25, 2025
- Major redesigns:
- 2008: Second generation (XU40) received a completely new body, a larger footprint, and a more powerful V6 engine.
- 2014: Third generation (XU50) featured new styling, an updated interior, and became available as a hybrid.
- 2020: Fourth generation (XU70) was introduced with new styling and technology.
- Mid-cycle refreshes:
- 2017: The 2014-2019 generation received updates like a restyled front end and a more powerful V6 engine paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
- 2026: Toyota is implementing a major redesign for the 2026 model year, introducing a new look, updated technology, and standard all-wheel drive on gas models.
This video explains the changes for the 2025 Toyota Highlander: 57sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Sep 17, 2024
What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?
Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid
- 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems.
- 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
- 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components.
- 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users.
- 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
- 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users.
You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
