What year is the Toyota Highlander best?
There isn’t a single “best” model year for the Toyota Highlander. For most buyers, the latest generations offer the strongest overall package, while well-maintained late-model used examples provide solid reliability and value. In short, the best year depends on what you value most—the newest safety tech and comfort, or a balance of reliability and cost of ownership.
To understand why, this guide walks through how the Highlander has evolved, what to expect from different generations, and which model years are commonly recommended for reliability, safety tech, and resale value. It aims to help shoppers weigh trade-offs like upfront price, depreciation, maintenance costs, and feature sets.
Reliability and ownership costs: which model years stand out
Years with proven long-term reliability and lower maintenance risk tend to attract buyers who want trouble-free ownership and better resale. The following years are frequently cited as solid used picks.
- 2017 Highlander
- 2018 Highlander
- 2019 Highlander
Prices and condition vary, but these late-model third-generation examples typically offer a good balance of modern safety features, reliable powertrains, and reasonable depreciation.
Hybrid models in this range
Within the reliability window, the Highlander Hybrid variants from the late 2010s can add fuel economy benefits with similar reliability to their gasoline siblings. Check battery condition, warranty coverage, and maintenance records when buying used.
Latest technology and safety: best current-year picks
For buyers prioritizing the newest safety features, driver-assistance tech, and modern infotainment, the 2020–2024 Highlanders are the best picks. This generation moved to the TNGA-K platform, improving ride quality, interior space, and overall refinement, with significant safety updates across trims.
- 2020 Highlander
- 2021 Highlander
- 2022 Highlander
- 2023 Highlander
- 2024 Highlander
Note: Availability of trims and features varies; higher trims offer more advanced driver aids, larger screens, and hybrid options. Warranty coverage and maintenance costs may differ by year and market.
Hybrid and all-wheel-drive considerations
Across the 2020–2024 range, the hybrid powertrain offers a compelling mix of efficiency and capability, while all-wheel drive is available on most trims. Prospective buyers should weigh fuel savings against potential maintenance costs for hybrid systems over time, and check how the AWD setup affects tire wear and warranty terms.
Bottom line for buyers
In practice, the best Highlander year depends on your priorities. If you want the newest tech and strongest safety suite, target 2020–2024. If you want a lower purchase price and solid reliability with modern features, 2017–2019 are excellent used options. For many shoppers, a well-kept 2018 or 2019 Highlander (gas or hybrid) also represents a strong balance of efficiency and dependability.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander remains a durable, family-friendly SUV across generations. There isn’t a universally “best” year; the right choice depends on whether you prioritize the latest safety tech and comfort (2020–present) or a balance of reliability and value (2017–2019). With careful inspection and a clear sense of budget and needs, both paths can yield a dependable, well-equipped Highlander.
Which one is the best Toyota Highlander?
The "best" Toyota Highlander depends on your priorities, as different model years excel in different areas. For reliability, the 2007 and 2008 models are top contenders, while the 2019 model is highly regarded for its well-rounded package and awards for resale value and family-friendliness. For the most features, the Platinum trim is the top-level choice, offering a panoramic glass roof and other upgrades.
By reliability
- 2007 Highlander: Often cited for its great reliability and safety features, making it a strong choice.
- 2008 Highlander: Rated as one of the most reliable years and the first to offer a hybrid option.
- 2018 Highlander: A fine-tuned version of the 2017 model, known for its consistent performance.
By features and value
- 2019 Highlander: Won awards for Best Resale Value and Best Family Cars, and offered a well-rounded package with a powerful V6 engine.
- 2017 Highlander: Kicked off a third-generation update with a new engine and updated styling.
- Platinum Trim: For the newest models, the Platinum trim is the highest level and includes premium features like the Panoramic View Monitor and a panoramic glass roof.
Considerations for a new or used purchase
- Used: Look for model years with a good reliability record like the 2007, 2008, or 2019 model years.
- New: The 2021 model year introduced a new generation with a bolder design and more refined interior.
- Avoid: Some years have known issues; for example, the 2008-2010 models had some problems, and the 2014-2015 and 2017-2019 models are also on some lists to avoid due to issues like transmission failures.
Best trim for features
- Platinum: If you want the most features, the Platinum is the top trim level, offering premium options like a panoramic glass roof and advanced driver-aid features.
What is the most reliable year of the Toyota Highlander?
The most reliable Toyota Highlander years include 2006, the late third-generation models (2017-2019), and certain fourth-generation models (2021-2022). Older models like 2008 and some from the 2012-2014 range also stand out as being particularly reliable. The most reliable years are often those that benefited from engineering improvements or were late in a generation's cycle, avoiding early bugs.
Best years for reliability
- 2006: Considered the pinnacle of the first generation, with straightforward engineering and high owner satisfaction.
- 2008: The first year of the second generation, it earned a high reliability score and featured a V6 engine.
- 2017-2019: These years represent the latter part of the third generation after significant updates were made, resulting in a strong and reliable model.
- 2021-2022: These models are part of the fourth generation and have been rated highly for reliability, with many of the initial launch year issues resolved.
Reliable older and newer options
- 2012-2014: These years are noted for being complaint-free.
- 2018: This model year continued the successes of the 2017 refresh, offering a refined package.
- 2023-Present: Newer models are generally reliable, but some initial glitches were reported and fixed with software updates.
Which Toyota Highlander to stay away from?
You should avoid the 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2015 model years of the Toyota Highlander due to common issues like engine problems in the 2003, and transmission glitches in the 2008 and 2015 models. Other years to be cautious with are 2009, 2010, and 2020, which had a higher number of recalls or transmission and software issues.
This video discusses common problems with Toyota Highlanders from 2020 to 2025: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Years to avoid
- 2003: Engine overheating and the possibility of needing a costly engine block swap.
- 2008: Significant issues with the braking system and a high number of recalls and complaints.
- 2009 and 2010: A high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning the braking system.
- 2014 and 2015: These years had early issues with transmission glitches and technology problems.
- 2020: This model year experienced some transmission and software problems.
Other considerations
- 2021: Reports of transmission failures.
- 2023: In the non-hybrid, the turbocharged engine had issues with acceleration and the infotainment system could be unreliable.
- 2024: Reports of issues with the infotainment system, a noisy engine, and hesitation.
Is a used Highlander a good buy?
When looking for a used Toyota Highlander, you are considering a vehicle that offers excellent resale value and a strong reputation for longevity. The Highlander is equipped with many features that families appreciate, such as ample seating, user-friendly technology, and a comfortable ride.
