Is a Toyota Highlander considered a small SUV?
Yes and no. The Toyota Highlander is not considered a small SUV; it is classified as a midsize SUV. It is designed as a three-row family crossover that sits above Toyota’s compact models in the lineup, with a larger footprint than the RAV4. A larger variant, the Grand Highlander, expands its footprint further while remaining in the midsize category.
The Highlander is Toyota’s main three-row midsize SUV, offering versatile seating and cargo options for families. It sits between the compact RAV4 and the larger Sequoia in Toyota’s SUV lineup, and its design emphasizes comfort, practicality, and safety. The Grand Highlander, introduced to broaden choice in the lineup, increases space and seating capacity but is still categorized within the midsize segment.
Where the Highlander fits in the SUV ladder
These points explain why the Highlander is grouped as a midsize SUV rather than a small or compact crossover.
- Seating and interior space: The Highlander typically offers three-row seating (seven or eight passengers), providing more interior room than compact crossovers.
- Dimensions relative to class: It is larger than the compact RAV4 and other compact crossovers, placing it in the midsize category.
- Market positioning: It is marketed as a family-oriented midsize SUV with a focus on practicality, safety, and versatility rather than the city-dwelling footprint of small SUVs.
Taken together, these attributes position the Highlander clearly in the midsize SUV category rather than the small/SUV class.
Variants to watch: Highlander vs Grand Highlander
A larger variant, the Grand Highlander, was introduced to offer more cabin and cargo space while remaining within the midsize SUV family. The Grand Highlander is bigger than the standard Highlander and targets buyers who want extra third-row space or a roomier interior, but it is not classified as a full-size SUV. The standard Highlander remains the smaller option for those who prefer a more compact footprint within the midsize segment.
How the Highlander compares to smaller SUV options
These points describe how the Highlander stacks up against smaller, compact crossovers and why classification matters for buyers.
- Compared with small/ccompact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, the Highlander is larger, offers three-row seating in most configurations, and provides greater cargo capacity.
- Within the midsize segment, the Highlander competes with rivals such as the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer, which offer similar seating and space characteristics.
- Industry and consumer perception generally label the Highlander as a midsize, three-row SUV rather than a small or compact model, though some listings may describe it loosely as a “two- to three-row” crossover depending on trim and configuration.
In summary, the Highlander is not a small SUV by standard classifications; it sits squarely in the midsize category, with the Grand Highlander offering a larger footprint within that same segment.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander is best described as a midsize SUV, typically offered with three-row seating and a footprint larger than compact crossovers. It is designed for families and prioritizes interior space, comfort, and practicality. The Grand Highlander expands the size further but remains within the midsize segment, while Toyota’s smaller RAV4 remains the brand’s compact option. For shoppers seeking a true small SUV, a model like the RAV4 would be the closer match.
