The Toyota Highlander has long stood as a benchmark in the midsize SUV category. Combining reliability, comfort, technology, and practicality, the Highlander appeals to a wide range of drivers—from growing families to solo commuters. First introduced in 2000, the Highlander was one of the original crossover SUVs that successfully blended the ride quality of a sedan with the utility of an SUV. Now in its fourth generation, the Toyota Highlander for Sale continues to evolve with hybrid technology, modern design, and advanced safety features.
This guide offers an in-depth look at the Toyota Highlander, covering its legacy, specs, trims, interior, performance, and how it compares to other popular SUVs on the market.
1. History and Evolution
First Generation (2001–2007)
The Highlander debuted in 2000 for the 2001 model year as one of the first midsize crossover SUVs. Built on the Camry platform, it featured a unibody construction that provided a smoother, more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Second Generation (2008–2013)
Toyota expanded the Highlander’s size in its second generation, offering more interior space and an optional third row. It became even more family-friendly, and Toyota introduced the Highlander Hybrid with improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
Third Generation (2014–2019)
With bolder styling and improved interior materials, the third-gen Highlander pushed toward the premium SUV segment. Safety features became more advanced, and Toyota’s Entune infotainment system was introduced. Powertrains became more refined, with a stronger V6 option and improved hybrid system.
Fourth Generation (2020–Present)
The current generation Highlander rides on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform, offering a sleeker design, better handling, and upgraded technology. The hybrid variant became a standout option with impressive fuel economy. In 2023, Toyota introduced the Highlander Hybrid MAX and began replacing the V6 engine with a more efficient turbocharged four-cylinder.
2. Performance and Powertrains
Gasoline Engine
Recent Highlanders have moved from the traditional V6 engine to a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving, highway cruising, and light towing. It’s mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
Hybrid Engine
The Highlander Hybrid features a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors to produce a total of 243 horsepower. It uses an eCVT (electronic continuously variable transmission), resulting in seamless acceleration and exceptional fuel efficiency. The hybrid model achieves up to 36 MPG combined, making it one of the most efficient three-row SUVs in the market.
Highlander Hybrid MAX
Introduced as a more performance-oriented hybrid, the Hybrid MAX pairs a 2.4L turbo engine with electric motors to deliver up to 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. It targets drivers who want both power and efficiency.
Towing Capacity
Gas engine: up to 5,000 lbs
Hybrid: up to 3,500 lbs
3. Trim Levels and Pricing (2025)
The Toyota Highlander is available in several trims, offering a wide range of features and prices:
L – Base model with essential features
LE – Adds more comfort and safety tech
XLE – Includes power moonroof, larger infotainment screen, and captain's chairs
XSE – Sporty trim with unique styling and sport-tuned suspension
Limited – Premium features such as ventilated front seats, JBL audio
Platinum – Top-tier trim with a panoramic sunroof, digital rearview mirror, and 360-degree camera
Hybrid MAX (Limited and Platinum) – High-performance hybrid with AWD
Estimated starting prices:
Gas: ~$39,000 to $52,000
Hybrid: ~$42,000 to $55,000
4. Interior and Comfort
Seating and Space
The Highlander can seat up to eight passengers in its standard configuration or seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom in the first two rows. The third row is best suited for children or shorter trips.
Cargo Capacity
Behind third row: 16.0 cubic feet
Behind second row: 48.4 cubic feet
Behind front seats: 84.3 cubic feet
Materials and Finishes
Toyota uses soft-touch materials, leather options on higher trims, and meticulous craftsmanship. The Limited and Platinum trims offer ambient lighting, perforated leather seats, and real wood or metallic accents.
5. Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment System
Standard 8-inch touchscreen (L, LE)
12.3-inch touchscreen (XLE and above)
Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Amazon Alexa
JBL Premium Audio with 11 speakers (Limited, Platinum)
Wi-Fi Hotspot and multiple USB-C ports
Digital Instrument Cluster
Higher trims include a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, customizable with navigation, driving data, and media.
Convenience Features
Wireless charging pad
Power liftgate (hands-free on higher trims)
Remote Connect app for locking/unlocking, starting the vehicle remotely
6. Safety Features
Toyota includes its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite standard across all trims. This includes:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Tracing Assist
Road Sign Assist
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Additional Safety Options
360-degree camera
Front and rear parking sensors
Automatic parking assist
Digital rearview mirror
The Highlander earns Top Safety Pick+ ratings from IIHS and 5-star crash ratings from NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation for family-friendly safety.
7. Driving Experience
Despite being a midsize SUV, the Highlander feels nimble for its size. The new TNGA platform provides improved structural rigidity, better suspension, and a lower center of gravity, making for a smoother and more composed ride. Steering is responsive, and AWD models provide extra confidence in inclement weather.
Ride and Noise
Cabin insulation is excellent. Road and wind noise are minimal, even at highway speeds. Higher trims include acoustic glass and extra sound-deadening materials.
8. Fuel Economy
| Powertrain | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Turbo (Gas) | 21 | 28 | 24 MPG |
| Hybrid (FWD) | 36 | 35 | 36 MPG |
| Hybrid (AWD) | 35 | 34 | 35 MPG |
| Hybrid MAX | 26 | 27 | 27 MPG |
The hybrid version is a standout in the segment, especially for buyers concerned with long-term fuel costs and emissions.
9. Reliability and Ownership
Toyota’s reputation for reliability is one of its strongest selling points. The Highlander regularly earns high marks in Consumer Reports and J.D. Power dependability rankings. Routine maintenance is simple, and parts are widely available.
Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
8-year/100,000-mile hybrid component warranty
Toyota also offers 2 years/25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance with roadside assistance.
10. Comparison with Competitors
| SUV | Highlander | Honda Pilot | Ford Explorer | Kia Telluride | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | ~$39,000 | ~$39,500 | ~$41,000 | ~$38,000 | ~$38,000 |
| Seats | 7–8 | 7–8 | 6–7 | 7–8 | 7–8 |
| Hybrid Option | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Max HP | 362 (Hybrid MAX) | 285 | 400 (ST model) | 291 | 291 |
| MPG (Best) | 36 MPG | 22 MPG | 27 MPG | 23 MPG | 23 MPG |
| Reliability Rating | Excellent | Good | Average | Very Good | Very Good |
The Highlander stands out for its hybrid efficiency, Toyota reliability, and wide range of trims. While the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade may offer slightly more luxurious interiors for the price, the Highlander’s fuel economy and advanced hybrid options give it a major edge in long-term ownership value.