Verdict
A
Mid-size SUV · Japan · 2001-present
Toyota Highlander
Three-row family SUV. Hybrid is the smart used buy.
Years
2001-present
Generations
1
Segment
Mid-size SUV
The Highlander is Toyota's three-row crossover SUV — unibody, V6 or hybrid, the kind of car people buy when they have three kids and don't want a Suburban. The 4th-gen (2020-) is built on the TNGA-K platform shared with the Camry and RAV4. The hybrid powertrain (2.5 + electric) is the smart pick — 36mpg combined and the same 243bhp combined output as the gas V6 used to make. Reliability is segment-leading. The XSE trim adds sporty body kit but doesn't change anything mechanical.
Generations
Click any generation for the deep dive
2020-present
4th Gen · XU70
Hybrid is the smart buy. 36mpg in a three-row SUV is segment-leading.
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Known issues by generation
Common faults reported on each generation — useful when shopping the used market.
2020-present · 4th Gen · XU70
- Hybrid 12V auxiliary battery wear
- Infotainment freezes (early cars)
- Cabin air filter housing rattle
- Brake hold software glitches
Rivals
Honda Pilot · Ford Explorer · Mazda CX-9 · Kia Telluride