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Is the Toyota Highlander made in Japan?


The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. Many potential buyers often wonder about the origin of this vehicle, particularly whether it is manufactured in Japan or elsewhere. In this article, we will explore the production locations of the Toyota Highlander and what that means for consumers.


Manufacturing Locations of the Toyota Highlander


The Toyota Highlander is primarily manufactured in the United States, specifically in Indiana. The Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) plant in Princeton is responsible for producing the Highlander for the North American market. This facility has been operational since 1998 and has played a significant role in Toyota's commitment to local manufacturing.


Global Production Strategy


While the Highlander is made in the U.S., Toyota has a global production strategy that includes various manufacturing plants around the world. Here are some key points regarding the Highlander's production:



  • North America: The majority of Highlanders sold in the U.S. are produced in Indiana.

  • Japan: Some models and trims may be produced in Japan, but this is less common for the Highlander.

  • Other Markets: Toyota may produce the Highlander in other countries for specific markets, but the U.S. remains the primary production hub.


Implications for Consumers


Understanding where the Toyota Highlander is made can influence consumer decisions for several reasons:



  • Quality Assurance: Vehicles manufactured in the U.S. are subject to stringent quality control standards, ensuring reliability.

  • Support for Local Economy: Purchasing a vehicle made in the U.S. supports local jobs and the economy.

  • Availability of Parts: Locally manufactured vehicles often have better access to parts and service, which can be beneficial for maintenance.


Conclusion


In summary, while the Toyota Highlander may have some components sourced from Japan, the vehicle itself is primarily manufactured in the United States, specifically in Indiana. This local production not only supports the economy but also ensures that the Highlander meets the high standards expected by consumers. If you're considering purchasing a Highlander, rest assured that you're choosing a vehicle built with quality and reliability in mind.


Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Toyota Highlanders manufactured?


Princeton, Indiana
Designed by Calty Design Studios and exclusively assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, the 2024 Grand Highlander will have a starting MSRP of $43,070 for the gas engine models, $44,670 for the hybrid and $54,040 for the Hybrid MAX powertrain when it hits dealerships this Summer.



Which Highlander is made in Japan?


First generation (XU20; 2000)

First generation
Model years2001–2007
AssemblyJapan: Miyawaka, Fukuoka (Toyota Motor Kyushu)
Body and chassis
PlatformToyota K platform



When did Highlanders stop being made in Japan?


2011 is the first year where production of the Highlander was moved entirely to Indiana. There are no more Highlanders heading to North America that were made in Japan.



How do I know if my car is made in Japan?


Check the Window Sticker
For the first category, a typical car might say “50%,” meaning that half of its components come from the U.S. For the second, a car may say “Japan: 20%,” which reveals that Japan is a significant source of around a fifth of the car's parts.



Are Toyota Highlanders made in Japan?


However, the Corolla was built there instead, and the Highlander is being built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of North America, replacing Tundra production.



How do I know if my Toyota is made in Japan or USA?


Toyota VINs starting with "1", "4", or "5" represent vehicles assembled in the United States, VINs beginning with "2" indicate vehicles assembled in Canada, and vehicles with VINs beginning with "3" were assembled in Mexico. Vehicles with VINs that start with "J" were produced in Japan.



How long do Toyota Highlanders last?


The answer to how long a Toyota Highlander will last really depends on how well it's cared for. With proper maintenance, a Highlander can easily last over 200,000 miles or the equivalent to over 15 years of use. However, if it's not properly cared for, it could start having problems much sooner.



When did Toyota stop manufacturing in Japan?


The Japanese carmaker said the stoppage on 29 August at all 14 of its domestic plants occurred after servers that process orders for vehicle parts broke down following a maintenance procedure carried out the previous day.



Which Toyota is made in USA?


American-Made Index – Cars.com

  • Toyota Tundra.
  • Toyota Sequoia.
  • Toyota Highlander.
  • Toyota Camry.



Which Toyota models are built in Japan?


Several Toyota models are produced in Japan, including the Land Cruiser, Prius, Supra, Crown, 86 and Alphard.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.