In the market for midsize crossover SUVs, the Toyota Highlander has proven itself a formidable contender.
It offers great reliability, comfort, and well-rounded features, but has seen years of highs and lows.
This manual aims to analyze the top and bottom Toyota Highlander years, offering a comprehensive assessment for possible purchasers.
Let us get started!
Table of ContentsShow
Toyota Highlander Generations
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander (XU20, 1st generation) | 2001-2007 |
| Toyota Highlander (XU40, 2nd generation) | 2008-2013 |
| Toyota Highlander (XU50, 3rd generation) | 2014-2019 |
| Toyota Highlander (XU70, 4th generation) | 2020-Present |
The table above, which shows Toyota Highlander generations, gives you a clear overview of the model’s evolution. Each generation represent key changes in design, functionality, and technology that may greatly influences a buying decision.
“Neutral Years” represent model years that do not significantly deviate from the established norm. These years neither surprise with exceptional features nor disappoint with pronounced issues.
You could call them average years.
Toyota Highlander Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (2001-2007) | 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 | 2002 | 2001, 2007 |
| 2nd (2008-2013) | 2009, 2011, 2012 | 2013 | 2008, 2010 |
| 3rd (2014-2019) | 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 | 2015 | 2019 |
| 4th (2020-Present) | 2020 | 2021 | 2022, 2023 |
These categorizations are are a result from a dozens of hours researcing a variety of factors, such as owner-reported reliability scores, annual maintenance costs, safety ratings, Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores, NHTSA recalls, investigations, complaints, and owner ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB), VehicleHistory, and Cars.com.
Some factors can negatively affect these rankings. For instance, a high number of NHTSA recalls can indicate lower reliability, thus bringing down a model year’s score.
Without further ado, here are the combined scores for each Toyota Highlander model year. With this in place, you can get a better overview of which Toyota Highlander years to avoid, and which to go for.
With the categorizations set, we will now explore each generation’s best and worst years.
Best & Worst Years For Toyota Highlander 1st Generation (2001-2007)
Toyota launched the first-generation Highlander in 2001, as a comfortable and reliable midsize SUV.
Best Years: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
These were the peak years of the first generation, displaying exceptional reliability, comfortable ride, and generous cargo space.
Notably, the 3.3-liter V6 engine introduced in 2004 provided a substantial boost in power, enhancing towing capacity while retaining fuel efficiency.
In addition, these years saw the implementation of improved safety features, including advanced airbag systems and optional stability control.
Neutral Year: 2002
The 2002 model offered decent reliability and performance. However, minor issues with the engine, specifically concerning coolant leaks and oxygen sensor failure, kept it from achieving the “best” ranking.
Its strengths, such as ample interior space and a comfortable ride, were counterbalanced by these minor drawbacks.
Worst Years: 2001, 2007
The debut year 2001 model faced several challenges including transmission problems and air conditioning system failures. These issues led to a spike in owner-reported problems, tarnishing its initial reputation.
The 2007 model, as the final year of this generation, was widely criticized for its uninspiring handling and subpar interior quality, a disappointing end to an otherwise strong generation.
Best & Worst Years For Toyota Highlander 2nd Generation (2008-2013)
The second-generation Highlander was larger and more family-friendly, launched in 2008 with an improved design.
Best Years: 2009, 2011, 2012
The 2009, 2011, and 2012 models boasted high reliability and offered spacious three-row seating, making them ideal for larger families.
The introduction of a more potent 3.5-liter V6 engine in these years provided an excellent balance of power and fuel efficiency. Enhanced safety features like traction control and an improved crash safety rating further boosted their appeal.
Neutral Year: 2013
While the 2013 model was generally reliable and offered a good amount of interior space, it didn’t stand out compared to other years in this generation.
Minor issues with the electric power steering and occasional transmission hiccups were the primary reasons this model year didn’t achieve a higher ranking.
Worst Years: 2008, 2010
The 2008 model, which kickstarted the second generation, suffered from engine issues such as excessive oil consumption.
Also, owners reported problems with the interior electronics, including malfunctioning navigation systems and climate control issues. The 2010 model had similar problems along with reported issues with premature brake wear and body integrity.
Best & Worst Years For Toyota Highlander 3rd Generation (2014-2019)
The third-generation Highlander, introduced in 2014, offered a more premium feel, increased power, and advanced safety features.
Best Years: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
These models excelled in reliability, performance, and boasted upscale interior quality. Fuel economy was improved due to the introduction of a more efficient transmission, and the Highlander’s tech features became more user-friendly.
Safety was another strong point, with Toyota’s Safety Sense package adding pre-collision warning and lane departure warning.
Neutral Year: 2015
The 2015 Highlander didn’t make significant advancements or display major issues. It maintained the high standard set by the 2014 model but didn’t exceed it.
Some reported infotainment system glitches and a slightly stiff ride quality detracted from its otherwise solid reputation.
Worst Year: 2019
The 2019 model faced some criticism due to a relatively less engaging driving experience and some reported issues with the transmission, including abrupt shifts and occasional delays in response.
Despite its premium interior and a host of standard safety features, these drawbacks led to a lower ranking.
Best & Worst Years For Toyota Highlander 4th Generation (2020-Present)
The fourth-generation Highlander, introduced in 2020, further refined the design and offered advanced tech features.
Best Year: 2020
The 2020 model set a high standard for the new generation, featuring a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, a spacious and upscale interior, and robust V6 engine.
The redesign also introduced a more stylish exterior and a quieter cabin, enhancing its overall appeal. However, it is the introduction of the Highlander Hybrid, offering impressive fuel economy, that truly set the 2020 model apart.
Neutral Year: 2021
While the 2021 Highlander remained a strong contender in the midsize SUV market, it didn’t bring substantial improvements over the 2020 model.
Despite its high safety scores and comfortable interior, some complaints about the finicky infotainment system and a relatively high base price made it fall into the neutral category.
Worst Years: 2022, 2023
Despite being recent, these model years have faced some criticism. Owners reported some issues with the infotainment system, including problems with the screen freezing or the system rebooting on its own.
Additionally, minor mechanical issues related to the braking system and transmission were reported, leading to their placement in the “worst” category.
Toyota Highlander Average Resale Values
We also analyzed the average resale value for each Toyota Highlander model year. It gives you a great overview of what you should expect to shell out to get an average Toyota Highlander of that year.
Conclusion
The Toyota Highlander, throughout its generations, has shown a complex but generally impressive evolution. Knowing the best and worst years of the model can significantly aid your purchasing decisions.
With a focus on reliability, maintenance, safety, and consumer satisfaction, this guide seeks to highlight the most and least favorable years of the Toyota Highlander.
What Toyota Highlander model year do you prefer? Comment your answer below as we’d love to hear your thoughts.
