How much cargo space does a 2013 Toyota Highlander have with seats folded down?

With both second- and third-row seats folded flat, the 2013 Highlander offers about 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space.

That capacity varies with seating configuration. Below are the standard cargo volumes for the 2013 model year, as published by Toyota and used by dealerships and reviewers.

Cargo space configurations

Before listing the figures, note that these measurements refer to factory-specified cargo volumes and can vary slightly with trim, optional equipment, and whether a floorconsole or spare tire storage alters space.

• Behind the third row (seats up): 10.3 cubic feet


• With the third row folded (second row up): 42.3 cubic feet


• With both second and third rows folded flat: 95.4 cubic feet

Taken together, these figures illustrate how the Highlander shifts from a compact-vehicle footprint with all seats in use to a full-length cargo hauler when you fold the rows flat.

Notes on measurements

Numbers come from Toyota's official cargo-volume specs for the 2013 Highlander. Cargo space can vary by feature options and interior configuration, and using roof racks or aftermarket storage may affect the available space.

Bottom line

For planning purposes, expect roughly 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear rows folded, about 42.3 cubic feet with just the third row folded, and around 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row when all rear seating is in use.

Summary: The 2013 Highlander remains a flexible seven- or eight-seat SUV with substantial cargo capacity when you fold down the rear seats, making it suitable for family trips, gear transport, and weekend projects.

How big is the cargo space on a Toyota Highlander with seats down?

The Highlander can give you up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third-row seats are folded down. If just the third-row seats are folded down, the Highlander gives you 48.4 cubic feet to work with, and you'll get 16 cubic feet if all the seats are upright.

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. 

What is the cargo space in a 2013 Toyota Highlander?

The 2013 Highlander can carry 95.3 cubic feet of cargo with the second and third rows folded. This figure is okay, but one rival notes that it trails the maximum capacity of rivals like the Chevrolet Traverse. Behind the second row, there are 42.3 cubic feet of cargo space, and 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row.

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