2001 - 2007 Toyota Highlander review

2007 Toyota Highlander

2007 Toyota Highlander interior

2007 Toyota Highlander seven-seat version

2007 Highlander - second and third row seats fold almost flat

The Highlander made its debut in North America in 2001 and soon became the Toyota's best selling SUV. The Highlander is a very comfortable, practical mid-size car-based SUV with great handling and smooth ride; think of it as Toyota Camry in an SUV body. First, only five-seat configuration was offered. Optional 7-seat version became available from 2004. Front- or all-wheel drive. Unibody construction, transversely mounted 3.0L V6 (3.3L V6 from 2004) or 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. Four- or available from 2004, five-speed automatic transmission; no manual transmission offered. Independent suspension with MacPherson struts on all 4 wheels. Disk brakes all-around, ABS is standard. Traction control and vehicle stability control are standard from 2004. The Highlander's optional full-time 4WD system is not designed for heavy off-roading, but it is very helpful in bad weather – in fact, we test drove the 2007 4WD Highlander during a heavy winter storm, and with vehicle stability control and winter tires it felt quite secure and surefooted.
The hybrid version of the Highlander became available in 2005. The Highlander hybrid 4WD is rated at 31/27 MPG or 7.6/8.7 L/100km (hwy/city).
The Highlander’s interior is very comfortable with good quality feel. The instruments are clear and simple; controls are conveniently located and easy to use. The steering wheel tilts, but lacks telescopic adjustment. Tall driving position, wide rear glass and large side mirrors help to insure good visibility all around. The driver’s and front passenger seats are very comfy and supportive, there is plenty of headroom space (I'm 6'2 and I had about two inches above me). Second row space is sufficient. The 60/40 split second-row seat reclines and slides forward or backward. Available from 2004, foldable third-row bench provides seating for two more passengers, although it is more suitable for small people and the access is a bit difficult. Second and third row seats fold almost flat. Optional roof rack is available for extra cargo.
On the road, the Highlander feels stable, smooth and fairly quiet; it actually feels more like driving mid-size sedan than an SUV. The steering is soft; handling is very good for an SUV. The V6 engine is silky and responsive, although low-end torque is somewhat lacking. 4-cylinder engine provides adequate power.
In NHTSA frontal-impact crash tests, the 2002-2003 Highlander scored 4 stars for the driver and front passenger, while the improved 2004-2007 Highlander received perfect five stars in frontal and side-impact NHTSA crash tests. In frontal offset crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2001-2007 Highlander received "Good" overall rating.

Strengths

- Good handling for an SUV
- Smooth car-like ride
- Perfect size, not too small, not too bulky
- Comfortable, practical
- Good visibility
- Available hybrid version
- Good quality
- Reliability
- Holds value well

Weaknesses

- Dashboard design seems a bit too plain
- Rear hatch door glass doesn't open separately
- No telescopic adjustment of the steering wheel
- Third row seat room is limited
- Only tan and gray interior colors available
Problems are rare, mostly minor, like squeaks and various noises, possible "check engine" light - nothing major.

Overall

The Toyota Highlander is one of the best mid-size car based SUVs available. The Highlander offers space, versatility and other benefits of larger SUVs combined with car-like handling, smooth ride and reasonable gas mileage. It's proven to be reliable if maintained properly. Lexus RX 300/330 is a luxury twin of the Highlander and can be considered as an alternative.

What to look for buying a used Toyota Highlander

Definitely check the used car history records to protect yourself from hidden problems, follow this link: How to check used car history
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Black soot in the exhaust or a smoke may indicate excessive oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.
Consider an extended warranty to protect from unexpected repair costs.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- If you live in the area with high humidity, rustproofing will help to protect the car body from corrosion.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Synthetic oil can offer extra protection for the engine.
- Whenever your engine is serviced, ask to check, and if necessary, to service the PCV valve.
- Check your tire pressure regularly, unequal tire pressure causes increased wear of 4WD system components.
- Change transmission fluid regularly using only original Toyota transmission fluid.
- Stick with original Toyota parts.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in the garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips

2006 Toyota Highlander short specifications (US non-hybrid)

Links

by Vlad Samarin