Was 2008 a good year for Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander has long been a popular choice among midsize SUVs, known for its reliability, comfort, and versatility. The 2008 model year marked the debut of the second-generation Highlander, bringing significant updates and improvements. But was it truly a standout year for this vehicle? Let’s dive into the details to find out.
Key Features of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
The 2008 Toyota Highlander introduced a complete redesign, offering a more refined driving experience and a host of new features. Here are some highlights:
- Engine and Performance: The 2008 Highlander came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. This provided a smooth and powerful ride, making it a great choice for families and commuters alike.
- Interior Comfort: The cabin was spacious, with seating for up to seven passengers thanks to an optional third row. High-quality materials and thoughtful design made the interior feel upscale for its class.
- Safety Features: Toyota prioritized safety with standard features like stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a full suite of airbags. The Highlander also earned high marks in crash tests, adding to its appeal for safety-conscious buyers.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its size and power, the 2008 Highlander offered respectable fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models.
Pros of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
The 2008 Highlander had several strengths that made it a popular choice among SUV buyers:
- Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for building dependable vehicles carried over to the Highlander, making it a low-maintenance option for long-term ownership.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a smooth ride even on rough roads.
- Family-Friendly Features: With options like a rear-seat entertainment system and a removable second-row center seat, the Highlander catered to families with diverse needs.
Cons of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
While the 2008 Highlander was well-received, it wasn’t without its drawbacks:
- Limited Off-Road Capability: Unlike some competitors, the Highlander was not designed for serious off-road adventures, focusing instead on on-road comfort.
- Third-Row Space: The optional third row was best suited for children, as it lacked the legroom and comfort needed for adults on longer trips.
- Price: The Highlander’s starting price was higher than some rivals, which may have deterred budget-conscious buyers.
Conclusion: Was 2008 a Good Year for the Toyota Highlander?
Overall, 2008 was indeed a strong year for the Toyota Highlander. The redesign brought significant improvements in performance, comfort, and safety, making it a top contender in the midsize SUV segment. While it wasn’t perfect, its reliability and family-friendly features made it a solid choice for many buyers. If you’re considering a used 2008 Highlander today, it remains a dependable and versatile option, provided it has been well-maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many miles does a Toyota Highlander 2008 get?
Fuel & MPG
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 345.6/460.8 mi. |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity | 19.2 gal. |
How long should a 2008 Toyota Highlander last?
How Long Does a Toyota Highlander Last? The Toyota Highlander is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs available, with the ability to continue running up to 300,000 miles after your drive it off the lot.
How long will a Toyota Highlander transmission last?
For many car owners, the transmission may last the entire life of the vehicle, considering it can be about 200,000 miles before it needs to be replaced. However, factors can impact this like neglecting regular service. Toyota recommends that vehicles change their fluid between 60, 000 to 100,000 miles.
Is the 2008 Highlander a good year?
Among the 468 owners who provided feedback on the 2008 Toyota Highlander for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 90% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
Is 2008 Highlander a good year?
Among the 468 owners who provided feedback on the 2008 Toyota Highlander for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 90% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
Does a 2008 Toyota Highlander have a belt or chain?
| Model | Year | Belt / Chain / Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Highlander | 2001-2007, 2009-2014 | Chain |
| 2001-2007 | Belt | |
| 2008-2019 | Chain | |
| Highlander Hybrid | 2006-2010 | Belt |
What year did the Highlander have transmission problems?
Frequent Issues Associated with Toyota Highlander Years
| Model Year | Common Problems | Repair Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Overheating due to coolant leak | $3,200 |
| 2008 | Transmission failure and recalls | Varies |
| 2010 | Oil consumption issues | Varies |
| 2014 | Engine performance problems | Varies |
How long will a 2008 Toyota Highlander last?
How Long Does a Toyota Highlander Last? The Toyota Highlander is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs available, with the ability to continue running up to 300,000 miles after your drive it off the lot.
What is the major problem of Toyota Highlander?
Ignition coil failure is also a point of concern in highlanders as it is faced mostly by first-generation highland users. Before buying a first-generation Highlander, check its coils because changing them can be very expensive since there are six in total. Three of the coils are located upfront and three at the back.
Are there any recalls on a 2008 Toyota Highlander?
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE.
