What year did they redesign the Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander, a popular midsize SUV, has undergone a redesign, with the latest model debuting in 2023. This comprehensive article delves into the details of the Highlander's redesign, exploring the key changes and improvements that have been made to this versatile vehicle.

Exterior Design Updates

The 2023 Toyota Highlander features a refreshed exterior design that builds upon the model's established reputation for a bold and modern appearance. The front grille has been reshaped, with a more prominent and angular design that gives the Highlander a more aggressive stance. Additionally, the headlight and taillight designs have been updated, incorporating sleeker and more streamlined elements. The overall silhouette of the Highlander remains largely unchanged, maintaining the SUV's signature look and proportions.

Interior Enhancements

Inside the 2023 Toyota Highlander, drivers and passengers will find a host of improvements to the cabin. The dashboard has been redesigned, with a more intuitive and user-friendly layout that incorporates a larger infotainment display. The seating has also been updated, offering enhanced comfort and support for all occupants. Additionally, the Highlander's cargo space has been slightly expanded, providing more versatility for families and adventurers alike.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the 2023 Toyota Highlander continues to offer a range of powertrain options, including a hybrid variant. The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers a robust 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking improved fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid model combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, resulting in an estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Safety and Technology Features

The 2023 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and technology features, further enhancing the vehicle's appeal. Standard driver-assist technologies include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Highlander also boasts a range of connectivity features, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging, and a premium audio system, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.

Conclusion

The redesign of the Toyota Highlander for the 2023 model year has brought about a host of improvements and refinements, solidifying the SUV's position as a top contender in the midsize segment. With its updated exterior design, enhanced interior features, and advanced powertrain and safety technologies, the 2023 Highlander is poised to continue its legacy of providing families and adventurers with a versatile and capable vehicle.

What year is the best year to buy a Toyota Highlander?

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 most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?

The most common problem with the Toyota Highlander is a major oil leak and loss of oil pressure caused by a faulty VVT-i oil line. Other frequent issues include infrequent but noticeable interior rattles, especially from the moonroof or dashboard, and problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2017-2019 models, leading to noises, delayed shifting, and failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Toyota Highlander, including the 8-speed transmission issue: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Most common problems

• VVT-i oil line rupture: This is the most frequent and serious issue, where the oil line bursts, causing a massive oil leak that can lead to complete engine failure if the vehicle is driven while the low oil pressure light is on. A revised part has been issued, but it has also been reported to have the same problem. 
• Interior rattles and noises: Many owners report various rattles and squeaks coming from the interior, such as the moonroof, dashboard, or infotainment screen, particularly on bumpy roads or in cold weather. 
• 8-speed automatic transmission: Specific models, particularly the 2017–2019 Highlanders, have been associated with issues such as a whining noise, delayed shifts, hard shifts, and even complete failure. 
• Airbag sensor failure: Some models have a faulty front passenger airbag sensor that can short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying correctly. 

Other potential issues

• Air and water leaks: Some model years have reported issues with plugged sunroof drain lines, leading to water leaks inside the vehicle. 
• Check engine light: This can be caused by various issues, such as the hose coming off the air filter housing or a failed oxygen sensor. 
• Brake issues: Some models have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, or a vibrating sensation when braking. 

This video discusses problems with the 8-speed transmission in the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 31, 2021

What year did Highlander change body style?

The Toyota Highlander has had several major body style changes, with the most significant generational redesigns occurring for the 2008 (second generation), 2014 (third generation), and 2020 (fourth generation) model years. A significant mid-cycle refresh also occurred for the 2017 model year, bringing updated styling and features to the third generation. 

• 2008: The second generation saw a significant redesign, with the vehicle growing larger in length, width, and wheelbase to provide more interior room, especially for a larger third-row seat. 
• 2014: The third generation debuted with a more adventurous exterior design, increased length and width, and an available 8-passenger configuration. 
• 2017: This was a mid-cycle refresh for the third generation, which included a restyled front end with a larger grille, updated headlights and taillights, and a more powerful V6 engine with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. 
• 2020: The fourth generation was a complete redesign from the ground up, with a new platform and a sleek, modern look. 

Is Highlander getting a redesign in 2025?

It's been five years since this latest Highlander generation debuted. For the 2025 model year little has changed, with just a minor tweak here and there to features and colors.