What are the downfalls of the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability, spaciousness, and family-friendly features. However, like any vehicle, the Highlander has its fair share of downsides that potential buyers should be aware of.
Limited Cargo Space
One of the main drawbacks of the Toyota Highlander is its relatively limited cargo space, especially when all three rows of seating are in use. The Highlander offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which is on the smaller side for a midsize SUV. This can be a significant issue for families who need to transport large items or bulky gear.
Uninspiring Performance
The Highlander's powertrain options, while adequate for daily driving, are not particularly powerful or exciting. The base four-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration, but the available V6 engine, while more powerful, still falls short of the performance offered by some competitors. This can be a disappointment for drivers who value a more engaging driving experience.p>
Dated Infotainment System
The Highlander's infotainment system, while functional, is starting to feel outdated compared to the more modern and feature-rich systems found in some rival SUVs. The user interface can be clunky, and the lack of advanced connectivity features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto may be a drawback for some buyers.
Subpar Fuel Economy
Despite its size and weight, the Highlander's fuel economy is not as impressive as some of its competitors. The four-cylinder model achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the V6 model manages 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. These figures are on the lower end for a midsize SUV, which can be a concern for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
While the Toyota Highlander remains a solid choice in the midsize SUV segment, it's important for potential buyers to be aware of its limitations. The Highlander's limited cargo space, uninspiring performance, dated infotainment system, and subpar fuel economy may be dealbreakers for some shoppers. Ultimately, it's essential to carefully consider your specific needs and priorities when evaluating the Highlander against its competitors.
What is the best year for Highlander?
A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation. These years have shown high reliability, minimal complaints, and good owner satisfaction ratings.
What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?
Identifying Unreliable Toyota Highlander Model Years
Years such as 2001, 2002, and 2005 often come up as troublesome, based on customer reviews. They are known for engine issues and using too much oil, mainly in the first models. The 2020 model also has its problems, like fuel tank and AC condenser issues.
What is the life expectancy for Toyota Highlander?
300,000 miles
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.
Which years Highlander is the best?
Toyota Highlander's Highlights
Particularly, the 2006-2007 and 2016–2019 models are known for their reliability and value. Some Toyota Highlander model years to avoid due to known issues are the early 2001–2002 models with mechanical problems and the 2008 models, which faced numerous recalls and complaints.
What is the best year for a Highlander?
A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation. These years have shown high reliability, minimal complaints, and good owner satisfaction ratings.
Which year is the Toyota Highlander best?
Toyota Highlander's Highlights
Particularly, the 2006-2007 and 2016–2019 models are known for their reliability and value. Some Toyota Highlander model years to avoid due to known issues are the early 2001–2002 models with mechanical problems and the 2008 models, which faced numerous recalls and complaints.
What are the negatives on a Toyota Highlander?
2025 Toyota Highlander
- Highs Strong fuel economy estimates, comprehensive list of safety features, quiet and comfortable cabin.
- Lows Limited third-row space, small cargo capacity behind third row, yawn-inducing driving dynamics.
Is the Toyota Highlander a reliable car?
The Toyota Highlander Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $489 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both fairly average when compared with all other vehicles.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?
If you are Highlander owner now, or are thinking of becoming one, these are the common issues you should know about.
- Oil Leaks And Loss Of Oil Pressure.
- Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor.
- Air Filter Housing Hose Disconnect.
- Ignition Coil Failure.
- Airbag Warning Light Due To Problematic Airbag Sensor.
What is the most reliable car model?
Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models
- Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
- Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
- BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.
