Will the 2023 Highlander be redesigned?

No — the 2023 Highlander did not debut a full redesign. It carried forward the current generation with a mid-cycle refresh that refreshed styling and updated features, rather than launching a new generation. Toyota has not announced a specific date for a next-generation Highlander, and industry observers expect any redesign to come in the next generation cycle, likely in the mid-2020s, once the current lifecycle concludes.

What changed with the 2023 Highlander

The 2023 model year introduced several updates aimed at keeping the Highlander competitive without a complete redesign. The following points summarize the notable changes.

• Exterior styling updates to refreshed front and rear visuals, aligning with Toyota’s current design language.


• Upgraded interior and infotainment options, including improved materials and technology features on more trims.


• Expanded safety and driver-assistance features as part of the Toyota Safety Sense suite, increasing standard protection across the lineup.


• Powertrain options remained consistent with the prior year, continuing to offer both gasoline and hybrid variants without a new engine introduction.

These changes illustrate a typical mid-cycle refresh: cosmetic updates and enhanced technology, rather than a wholesale redesign of the platform.

Next-generation timing and what to expect

Toyota has not released a formal timetable for a next-generation Highlander. In general, the Highlander’s lifecycle has spanned several years per generation, followed by a subsequent redesign. Current industry expectations place a future redesign in the mid-2020s, but no official date has been confirmed by Toyota. Market demand, product strategy, and broader SUV trends can influence timing.

What to watch for in a future redesign

When a new generation arrives, observers anticipate a combination of design evolution and technology upgrades. Potential areas of focus could include more advanced electrification options, updated drivetrain efficiency, revised safety systems, and interior improvements that reflect Toyota’s evolving cabin tech and user experience standards.

Summary

In summary, the 2023 Highlander is not a redesigned model but a refreshed variant within the current generation. A future redesign is not yet dated or officially announced by Toyota, though industry expectations point to a new generation in the mid-2020s. For the latest information, keep an eye on official Toyota announcements and model-year updates as they are released.

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?

Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders. 
Current and recent lawsuits

• Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items. 
• Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org. 
• Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity. 
• Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning. 
• Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org. 

How to proceed

• Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
• Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
• Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement. 
• Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants. 

What are the expected changes in the 2026 Highlander?

For 2026, Highlander makes All Wheel Drive standard on gas models and a simplified grade structure, with feature-packed models available in four gas and three hybrid grades.

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

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.