Toyota Highlander research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Highlander is a comfortable, well-built family SUV with three rows and strong resale value. 2014 and later models are roomier; the 2017 refresh brought a 295-hp V6, an 8-speed and standard Toyota Safety Sense. The 2020 redesign added a hybrid rated about 36 mpg, and a 265-hp turbo four replaced the V6 for 2023. The third row is best for kids; the Grand Highlander offers more space.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. 2026 makes AWD standard and drops the LE; verify 2026 trims, hybrid specs and pricing against current Toyota data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Strong reliability reputation
- High resale value
- Efficient hybrid 2020 and later
- Standard toyota safety sense 2017 and later
- Smooth V6 through 2022
- 5000 lb towing on gas models
- Comfortable ride
Things to know before you buy
- Tight third row
- Used prices are high
- V6 replaced by turbo four from 2023
- Four cylinder 2011 2019 is FWD only
- Grand highlander is a separate model
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 2 (2008–2013)
The second generation offered a 187-hp 2.7L four (6-speed), a 270-hp 3.5L V6 (5-speed) and a 280-hp V6 Hybrid with electric AWD; the 2011 refresh made three rows standard.
Buyer takeaway: Affordable, durable family SUVs; buy on condition and records.
Generation 3 (2014–2019)
The third generation was larger, seating up to eight, with a 270-hp V6 and 6-speed (2014-2016), then a 295-hp V6 with an 8-speed, a 306-hp Hybrid and standard Toyota Safety Sense P from the 2017 refresh.
Buyer takeaway: 2017-2019 are the sweet spot for power and standard safety; check 8-speed behavior.
Generation 4 (2020–present)
The fourth generation brought a 295-hp V6 (through 2022), a 243-hp 2.5L hybrid rated about 36 mpg, standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and smartphone integration; a 265-hp 2.4L turbo four replaced the V6 for 2023, and AWD became standard for 2026.
Buyer takeaway: Choose a hybrid for mpg, a 2020-2022 V6 for a proven six, or 2023+ for the latest screens and turbo power.
Toyota Highlander by model year
2026 Toyota Highlander
For 2026 all-wheel drive is standard and the base LE is gone, so the lineup starts at XLE (XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum). The 265-hp 2.4L turbo four with an 8-speed automatic is rated about 21/28 mpg, and the Hybrid about 35 mpg combined. Verify 2026 trims, hybrid specs and pricing against current Toyota data.
- Engines: 2.4 liter turbo I4 265 hp 310 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- All wheel drive made standard
- Base le trim dropped xle is entry
- Trims xle xse limited platinum
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; Warranty status and in service date; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2025 Toyota Highlander
The 2025 Highlander continues with the 265-hp 2.4L turbo four and 8-speed automatic or the 243-hp Hybrid (about 35-36 mpg), FWD or AWD, and standard Toyota Safety Sense. Families needing a roomier third row can consider the separate, larger Grand Highlander introduced for 2024. Confirm warranty status and recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter turbo I4 265 hp 310 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Larger grand highlander sold separately
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; Turbo engine oil change records; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2024 Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Highlander continues with the 265-hp 2.4L turbo four and 8-speed automatic or the 243-hp Hybrid (about 35-36 mpg), FWD or AWD, and standard Toyota Safety Sense. Families needing a roomier third row can consider the separate, larger Grand Highlander introduced for 2024. Confirm warranty status and recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter turbo I4 265 hp 310 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Larger grand highlander sold separately
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; Turbo engine oil change records; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2023 Toyota Highlander
For 2023 a turbocharged 2.4L four (265 hp, 310 lb-ft) with an 8-speed automatic replaced the V6, with more low-end torque, slightly better mpg (about 22/29 FWD) and the same 5,000-lb towing rating. The 243-hp Hybrid continues. Limited and Platinum gain dual 12.3-inch screens, and lower trims get an 8-inch or 12.3-inch display.
- Engines: 2.4 liter turbo I4 265 hp 310 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Turbocharged 2.4 liter four replaces the V6
- More torque and better mpg same 5000 lb towing
- Dual 12 3 inch screens on limited and platinum
- Hands free liftgate on xle and xse
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; Turbo engine oil change records; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2022 Toyota Highlander
The 2022 Highlander continues the 2020 redesign with a 295-hp V6 and 8-speed automatic (about 21/29 mpg FWD) or the 243-hp 2.5L Hybrid (about 36/35), front- or all-wheel drive, and standard Toyota Safety Sense. It is the last stretch of V6 Highlanders, which suit buyers who prefer a naturally aspirated six for towing up to 5,000 lb.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Sporty xse trim and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2021 Toyota Highlander
The 2021 Highlander continues the 2020 redesign with a 295-hp V6 and 8-speed automatic (about 21/29 mpg FWD) or the 243-hp 2.5L Hybrid (about 36/35), front- or all-wheel drive, and standard Toyota Safety Sense. It is the last stretch of V6 Highlanders, which suit buyers who prefer a naturally aspirated six for towing up to 5,000 lb.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Sporty xse trim and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Highlander was all-new, with a 295-hp V6 and 8-speed automatic on every gas model (about 21/29 mpg FWD) and a new 243-hp 2.5L four-cylinder Hybrid rated about 36/35 mpg, a big efficiency gain, with FWD or AWD. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is standard, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrived. The third row remains snug.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 243 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- All new fourth generation on tnga k platform
- V6 standard on all gas models
- Hybrid switches to 2.5 liter four with about 36 mpg
- Toyota safety sense 2 0 standard
- Apple carplay and android auto added
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2019 Toyota Highlander
The 2019 Highlander continues the 2017 refresh with a 295-hp V6 and 8-speed automatic, the 306-hp V6 Hybrid, or a base FWD four-cylinder, plus standard Toyota Safety Sense P. It is a well-equipped, roomy family SUV with strong resale. It is the last year before the 2020 redesign and its more efficient four-cylinder hybrid.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft le FWD; 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 306 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic V6; 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2017
- Last year of the third generation and the V6 hybrid
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2018 Toyota Highlander
The 2018 Highlander continues the 2017 refresh with a 295-hp V6 and 8-speed automatic, the 306-hp V6 Hybrid, or a base FWD four-cylinder, plus standard Toyota Safety Sense P. It is a well-equipped, roomy family SUV with strong resale. Check 8-speed shift quality and open recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft le FWD; 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 306 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic V6; 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2017
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2017 Toyota Highlander
The 2017 refresh is a key year: a new 295-hp, 263 lb-ft V6 with an 8-speed automatic (about 27 mpg highway), a 306-hp Hybrid, and standard Toyota Safety Sense P with pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise. Styling gained a larger grille and a sporty SE trim. The base LE keeps a 185-hp four-cylinder with a 6-speed and FWD.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft le FWD; 3.5 liter V6 295 hp 263 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 306 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic V6; 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- New 295 hp V6 with 8 speed automatic and stop start
- Hybrid rises to 306 hp
- Toyota safety sense p standard
- Larger grille and new se trim
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Engine stop start operation; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2016 Toyota Highlander
The 2016 Highlander carries over the 2014 redesign: a 270-hp V6 with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 19/25 mpg FWD), a 185-hp four-cylinder with FWD, or the 280-hp AWD V6 Hybrid (about 27/28). It is roomy, comfortable and holds value well. Advanced safety features were optional, so check equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft FWD only; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Trim and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2015 Toyota Highlander
The 2015 Highlander carries over the 2014 redesign: a 270-hp V6 with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 19/25 mpg FWD), a 185-hp four-cylinder with FWD, or the 280-hp AWD V6 Hybrid (about 27/28). It is roomy, comfortable and holds value well. Advanced safety features were optional, so check equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft FWD only; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Trim and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2014 Toyota Highlander
The 2014 Highlander was all-new and larger, seating up to eight. A 270-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic is the most common choice (about 19/25 mpg FWD, 18/24 AWD); a 185-hp 2.7L four is FWD-only (20/25), and the 280-hp V6 Hybrid is AWD (about 27/28). Handy touches include a dash shelf, flip-up rear glass and an intercom.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 185 hp 184 lb ft FWD only; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 and hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- All new third generation
- Larger body seating up to eight
- 6 speed automatic for the V6
- Flip up rear glass and driver easy speak intercom
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2013 Toyota Highlander
The 2013 Highlander is a second-generation (2008-2013) three-row SUV. Most have a 270-hp 3.5L V6 with a 5-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 18/24 mpg FWD); a 187-hp 2.7L four with a 6-speed suits FWD buyers on a budget, and the 280-hp V6 Hybrid uses electric rear-wheel drive. It is the last year before the larger 2014 redesign.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 187 hp 186 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; 5 speed automatic V6; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6; Electric AWD hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Equipment and package rearranged
- Highlander plus package added
- Last year of the second generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2012 Toyota Highlander
The 2012 Highlander is a second-generation (2008-2013) three-row SUV. Most have a 270-hp 3.5L V6 with a 5-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 18/24 mpg FWD); a 187-hp 2.7L four with a 6-speed suits FWD buyers on a budget, and the 280-hp V6 Hybrid uses electric rear-wheel drive. It is a roomy, durable family SUV; check service history.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 187 hp 186 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; 5 speed automatic V6; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6; Electric AWD hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2011
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
2011 Toyota Highlander
The 2011 Highlander is a second-generation (2008-2013) three-row SUV. Most have a 270-hp 3.5L V6 with a 5-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 18/24 mpg FWD); a 187-hp 2.7L four with a 6-speed suits FWD buyers on a budget, and the 280-hp V6 Hybrid uses electric rear-wheel drive. The 2011 refresh made three rows standard.
- Engines: 2.7 liter I4 187 hp 186 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 270 hp 248 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 hybrid 280 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 4 cylinder; 5 speed automatic V6; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6; Electric AWD hybrid
- Body style: 4 door three row SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed front and rear fascias hood and bumpers
- Three row seating made standard
- Four cylinder more widely available
- Hybrid gains a more powerful V6
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine drivetrain and trim by VIN; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; Third row and seat condition; Power liftgate operation; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Towing history and hitch wear; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Hybrid Battery and System Health (2011–2026)
Highlander Hybrids are generally durable, but older, high-mileage examples (especially 2011-2019 V6 hybrids) can need hybrid battery or inverter work, and the battery cooling fan intake can clog. Toyota's hybrid component warranty may still cover newer vehicles.
What to do: Have a Toyota dealer or hybrid specialist check an older Highlander Hybrid before buying. - 3.5L V6 Water Pump and Coolant Leaks (2011–2022)
The 3.5L V6 used through 2022 is strong and long-lived, but high-mileage engines can develop water pump leaks, a known repair rather than a certain failure.
What to do: Check for coolant leaks and value documented water-pump replacement. - 2.4L Turbo Four Maintenance (2023+) (2023–2026)
The 2.4L turbocharged four that replaced the V6 for 2023 is newer, with less long-term history than the V6. On-time oil changes and a recall check by VIN are the key steps.
What to do: Favor vehicles with documented dealer maintenance and confirm remaining powertrain warranty. - Toyota Safety Sense Camera and Radar Function (2017–2026)
Toyota Safety Sense is standard from 2017. Windshield replacement or front-end repairs can affect the camera and radar, which need calibration afterward.
What to do: Confirm all driver aids work on a test drive. - Family-Use and Towing Wear (2011–2026)
Highlanders are often family haulers and light tow vehicles (up to 5,000 lb on V6 and turbo models). Check seat and interior wear, liftgate operation, brakes, tires and towing equipment.
What to do: Inspect all rows and towing equipment, and review service records. - Highlander, Hybrid and Grand Highlander Disambiguation (2011–2026)
Highlander powertrains changed by year: 2.7L four (through 2019), 3.5L V6 (270 hp to 2016, 295 hp 2017-2022), a 2.4L turbo four from 2023, V6 hybrids through 2019 and a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid from 2020. The Grand Highlander (2024+) is a separate, larger SUV.
What to do: Confirm engine, drivetrain and trim before comparing.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies.
Similar vehicles to consider
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- Kia Sorento
- Kia Telluride
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- Hyundai Palisade
- Ford Explorer
- Mazda CX-9
- Subaru Ascent
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Toyota Grand Highlander
- Toyota 4Runner
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Toyota Highlander?
- Does this Highlander have the V6, turbo four or hybrid?
- What changed in the 2017, 2020 and 2023 Highlander?
- How much can the Highlander tow?
- Is the Highlander's third row big enough for adults?
- What is the difference between the Highlander and Grand Highlander?
- What fuel economy does the Highlander Hybrid get?
- What should I inspect on a used Highlander?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar SUVs should I consider?