Is the Toyota Highlander worth buying?

Yes for many buyers. The Toyota Highlander remains a solid pick in the midsize three-row SUV segment thanks to reliability, practicality, and strong resale value. However, price increases, cabin space in the third row, and competing models can influence whether it’s the best fit for you.

What to know about the Highlander in 2025

The Highlander has evolved into a well-rounded family SUV with two main powertrain options, a comfortable ride, and a suite of safety and technology features. Toyota continues to emphasize practicality, interior quality, and long-term reliability, even as rivals push more premium amenities and sharper styling.

Powertrains and efficiency

The lineup generally centers on two setups: a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder for non-hybrid models and a hybrid 2.5-liter system. The turbo engine delivers brisk acceleration for a family SUV, while the hybrid pair emphasizes efficiency. Expect around the low 20s mpg in city driving and high 20s to near 30 mpg on the highway for the turbo, with hybrid models typically in the mid-30s mpg combined. All-wheel drive is available or standard on various trims, depending on configuration.

Below is a concise look at the Highlander’s key strengths and trade-offs as of the 2024–2025 model years:

Before listing, here is a quick overview of the main advantages and drawbacks you’ll typically encounter when evaluating the Highlander.

Pros and cons in brief:

• Pros: proven reliability and strong resale value


• Pros: three-row seating with usable cargo space


• Pros: solid safety features and driver-assistance tech


• Pros: efficient hybrid option with competitive mpg


• Cons: third-row space can be tight for adults


• Cons: price climbs on higher trims and hybrids


• Cons: some rivals offer more upscale interiors or more engaging driving dynamics

In summary, the Highlander combines dependability with practical ownership costs, making it a compelling choice for families or buyers needing versatile space without jumping to a premium brand.

Interior, space, and daily usability

The Highlander’s interior is designed to handle family life: easy-to-clean surfaces, ample cupholders, and a straightforward layout for controls. Cargo space is generous behind the second row, and the third row is usable for kids and occasional adults on short trips. Taller drivers will appreciate the seating position and visibility, while the rear cargo area improves with the second row folded flat.

Before you consider the list below, keep in mind how important cabin practicality is for your needs.

Key interior and practicality notes:

• Spacious three-row format with flexible seating configurations


• Goods and passengers continue to be well-supported for family use


• Infotainment and controls have improved in recent refreshes, with larger screens on higher trims


• Interior materials and quiet ride contribute to a comfortable daily experience

When you weigh interior space against rivals, the Highlander remains competitive, especially for buyers prioritizing proven reliability and a roomy second row.

Technology, safety, and driving experience

Toyota’s Safety Sense suite is a hallmark of modern Highlanders, and the latest refreshes bring updated driver-assistance features, improved screen interfaces, and better smartphone integration. The driving experience varies by powertrain: the turbo engine offers confident acceleration for merging and highway passing, while the hybrid emphasizes smoother, quieter operation and better fuel economy. Ride comfort is generally smooth, though some trims with larger wheels can feel a bit busier over rough pavement.

Before diving into the results, consider how much you value safety features, screen size, and overall ride quality when selecting a trim level.

Key safety and tech considerations:

• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes active safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist


• Infotainment has improved, with easier smartphone integration on newer trims


• Higher trims offer more premium amenities, larger displays, and upgraded audio systems


• Hybrid models deliver the best overall fuel economy in daily use

Overall, the Highlander’s tech and safety package is competitive in its class, with a strong emphasis on reliability and ease of use rather than flashy styling or cutting-edge luxury.

Pricing, value, and ownership costs

Pricing for the Highlander has risen in line with industry trends, but it remains a reasonable choice within the three-row SUV segment. Starting prices sit above non-luxury compact SUVs, and higher trims or hybrid variants push well into premium territory. Long-term ownership costs—thanks to Toyota’s reputation for reliability and cost-effective maintenance—remain favorable compared with many rivals.

Before you assess value, weigh the total cost of ownership, including fuel, insurance, and potential depreciation.

Pricing considerations and ownership notes:

• MSRP typically starts in the low-to-mid $40,000s for well-equipped trims


• Hybrid variants add efficiency and can raise the initial price


• Maintenance and repair costs are generally predictable and moderate for this class


• Resale value is strong, contributing to lower total ownership cost over time

For buyers who prioritize reliability and practicality over premium features, the Highlander’s value proposition remains compelling, particularly if you opt for a hybrid to maximize fuel savings.

Is it worth buying compared to rivals?

When stacked against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder, the Highlander’s standout strengths are reliability, resale value, and a calm, comfortable ride. If you want the best blend of interior space and long-term ownership costs with a proven track record, the Highlander is hard to beat in its price tier. If you prioritize sportier handling, a more upscale interior feel, or aggressively low fuel economy numbers, you might prefer some rivals.

Comparison highlights in brief:

• Telluride and Palisade often edge out in interior refinement and ride feel


• Honda Pilot offers strong practicality but can lag in efficiency and resale value


• Ford Explorer provides more engine variety but varies in reliability and resale


• Nissan Pathfinder competes on price but may not match Toyota’s long-term reliability

In short, for families prioritizing dependable operation, ample space, and strong resale, the Highlander remains worth considering. For buyers chasing the absolute best in luxury feel or cutting-edge tech, some rivals warrant a closer look.

Summary

The Toyota Highlander continues to be a prudent choice in 2025 for many buyers, especially those who value reliability, practicality, and strong resale value. It offers two solid powertrain options, a comfortable interior, and robust safety tech, though it can be pricier in higher trims and the third row may feel snug for adults. If these trade-offs align with your needs, the Highlander remains worth buying. If you crave more premium interiors, sportier handling, or the absolute best in passenger space, consider nearby rivals and test-drive to decide which SUV best fits your lifestyle.

Bottom line: the Highlander is a dependable, well-rounded family SUV that continues to earn its keep in a crowded segment. A test drive and a careful scan of trims and total cost of ownership will help confirm whether it’s the right pick for you.

What are the negatives of the Toyota Highlander?

Common cons for the Toyota Highlander include a tight third-row seat and limited cargo space behind it, an underpowered base hybrid engine that can feel strained, a coarse engine sound during acceleration, and interior materials that may not feel premium compared to some rivals. Older models may have issues with transmissions or power liftgates, and some owners report concerns with handling or specific technology features like the infotainment system. 
This video discusses some cons of the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander: 55sMotorNationYouTube · Jul 13, 2025
Space and utility

• Tight third row: The third-row seat is best suited for children, with limited legroom and difficult access. 
• Limited cargo space: The area behind the third row is small, and it may be a challenge to haul many items. 
• Poor off-road capability: It is not designed for rugged off-roading and has limited ground clearance. 

Performance

• Underpowered base hybrid: The base hybrid powertrain, prioritizing fuel efficiency, can feel sluggish, especially when fully loaded or on the highway. 
• Coarse engine noise: The engine can sound loud and unrefined when accelerating hard. 
• Sloppy handling: Some owners describe the rear as feeling sloppy, especially when the vehicle is not carrying weight. 
• Transmission issues: Certain older model years (e.g., 2017-2020) have been reported to have transmission problems. 

Interior and technology

• Interior quality: Higher trims may still feature noticeable hard plastics, and the overall interior feel may not be as upscale as some competitors at a similar price point. 
• Infotainment issues: Some owners report problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or connectivity issues with Bluetooth. 

Other potential drawbacks

• High price: Some models, particularly the gas-only version, have a high base price compared to competitors. 
• Power liftgate problems: A specific defect involving the rear power liftgate has been reported in several model years. 
• Visibility issues: Some owners report that the side mirrors create blind spots. 

This video shares some of the things the creator dislikes about the Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 1mMotorNationYouTube · Oct 27, 2025

Which year of Highlander is the best?

The best years for the Toyota Highlander are generally considered to be 2006-2007, 2009-2013, 2017-2019, and 2020-present, as these generations are praised for reliability and features. Specific standout model years include 2007, 2016, and 2018-2019 due to high reliability scores and positive consumer reviews. 
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Highlander models based on their generation: 59sCar MavenYouTube · Feb 16, 2025
Best model years by generation 

• 1st Generation (2001-2007): The 2006-2007 models are often cited as the best years. The 2007 model is specifically recognized for its high reliability score. 
• 2nd Generation (2008-2013): The 2009-2013 range is frequently recommended for its reliability and value. 
• 3rd Generation (2014-2019): This generation is highly regarded, with 2017-2019 being a strong recommendation. The 2016 model is noted for receiving awards for value and ownership costs, while the 2018 model is praised for reliability and safety features. 
• 4th Generation (2020-present): The models from 2020 onwards are also considered reliable. However, some 2020 and later models may have a delayed throttle response that can be improved with a software update from the dealer, notes this YouTube video. 

What to consider when buying a used Highlander

• Reliability: Toyota Highlanders are known for long-term reliability, so even models outside the top recommended years can be good choices if well-maintained. 
• Cost: While reliable, they can sometimes cost more than rival SUVs. 
• Common issues: Some years have specific issues to be aware of, such as potential transmission problems in older models and software-related acceleration delays in some newer models. 
• Maintenance: A well-maintained Highlander can last for over 200,000 miles. 

What is the best Toyota SUV to buy?

The "best" Toyota SUV depends on your needs, but the RAV4 Hybrid is a top choice for balancing efficiency, practicality, and value for most drivers. For larger families or those needing more space, the Grand Highlander offers three rows of seating and comfort. For off-road capability, the 4Runner is the most rugged, with a body-on-frame construction ready for adventure. 
Best overall/most efficient 

• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Consistently ranked as a top choice due to its outstanding fuel economy (around 404040 mpg combined) and standard all-wheel drive. It offers a great balance of efficiency, practicality, and reliability for city and suburban use. 
• Also consider: The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offers even more electric-only range, while the standard RAV4 is a solid, reliable, and budget-friendly option. 

Best for families/space

• Toyota Grand Highlander: This mid-size SUV is built for larger families, comfortably seating up to eight passengers with a spacious third row and ample cargo room. It offers a smooth ride and a towing capacity of up to 5,0005 comma 0005,000 lbs.
• Toyota Highlander: A slightly smaller option than the Grand Highlander, it comfortably seats seven or eight and is a reliable choice for larger families needing more space than a compact SUV. 

Best for off-road/rugged use 

• Toyota 4Runner: If you need a durable, off-road-capable SUV, the 4Runner is the top contender. Its body-on-frame construction makes it rugged, while its advanced features are designed to tackle rough terrain. 

Best for luxury

• Toyota Crown Signia: For drivers who prioritize comfort and style, the new Crown Signia offers a more premium experience with a refined interior and advanced technology. 

Is the Toyota Highlander a reliable car?

Yes, the Toyota Highlander is generally considered a reliable vehicle with a strong reputation for durability and a low cost of ownership. It consistently ranks well for reliability, though specific model years and certain components have had notable issues, such as some older models' fuel pumps and the 2020 redesign's A/C condensers and fuel tanks. Overall, with proper maintenance, it can last for many years and miles, often exceeding 200,000 miles.
 
Reasons for its reliability

• Strong reputation: Toyota is known for building reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. 
• Above-average scores: It ranks well for reliability among mid-size SUVs, with one source giving it a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability score. 
• Longevity: A well-maintained Highlander can last for over 200,000 to 300,000 miles. 
• Low cost of ownership: The estimated annual ownership cost for a used Highlander is below the industry average. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Fuel pump recalls: Some models, particularly around 2018, experienced fuel pump issues, though this was a problem across multiple Toyota vehicles at the time. 
• 2020 redesign problems: Some owners of the 2020 model have reported issues with the A/C condenser and the fuel tank not filling to its full capacity. 
• Engine bolt stripping: A significant problem in some models is stripped engine bolts, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. This issue is most common around 130,000 miles but can be a severe problem if not addressed early. 
• Brake rotor warping: The premature warping of brake rotors has been reported in some Highlanders, causing a vibrating or pulsing sensation during braking. 
• Airbag issues: Certain model years, such as 2013 and 2016, had issues with defective airbags not deploying properly, leading to recalls. 

Recommendations for buying

• For newer models: The 2020 through current model years are generally considered the most reliable, with fewer reported problems. 
• For older models: The 2008-2013 models are also praised for their space and features, though it's best to thoroughly check for any history of the issues mentioned above. 
• Check maintenance records: Regardless of the year, ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained, especially for models with higher mileage.