Best Year for Toyota Highlander: Our Top 6 & Expert Tips

Over the years, the Toyota Highlander has enjoyed a stellar reputation for reliability among families and everyday drivers alike. 

Still, given so many model years to choose from, what are the best years for Toyota Highlander? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most reliable years and what to look for so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Top 6 Most Reliable Highlander Years

The six best years for Toyota Highlander are 2020, 2019, 2015, 2013, 2009, and 2007. They earn their place on our list for powerful V6 engines, smooth handling, high towing capacity, and spacious 7-to-8-passenger seating that makes them ideal companions for families and road trips.

2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander easily stands out as one of the most well-balanced midsize SUVs of the current generation.

For starters, all these fourth-generation Highlander models come equipped with robust 3.5-liter V6 engines, which push out 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. As a result, our team members did not feel sluggish when merging onto a fast-moving highway during our crash tests. Even pulling onto an incline with a full cabin was smooth and effortless.

Furthermore, this fourth-generation Highlander can confidently tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is extremely convenient if you’re hauling gear (e.g., a small boat or a pop-up camper) on a frequent basis. This immense power is usually locked behind premium trim levels in other brands, yet Toyota gives it to every buyer with zero compromises.

As its seating capacity is designed for up to eight people, there’s more than enough space for your kids, friends, and family members. And when the rear seats are folded down, you get up to 73 cubic feet of cargo space, so it’s easy to fit a full-size mattress or several bicycles without needing a roof rack or a second trip. 

Better yet, given the 8.2 inches of ground clearance, you’re comfortably above road debris and potholes — but not so high that your elderly parent or child struggles to climb in.

2019 Toyota Highlander

Right before Toyota rolled out its full redesign in 2020, the 2019 model was also considered the peak of refinement in the third-generation lineup.

Like the 2020 version, its system runs on a strong 3.5-liter V6 that pumps out 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This practical vehicle also manages a solid 22 MPG combined (so it’s not a gas guzzler, either) and enjoys a powerful 5,000-lb towing capacity across all V6 trims.

In terms of space, the 2019 Highlander can seat up to eight people in certain trims like the Highlander LE and XLE and seven in the sportier SE (which trades the second-row bench for captain’s chairs). 

The second and third rows fold flat, so when not hauling passengers, we have a wide, flat cargo space that can handle Costco hauls, camping gear, and everything in between with ease. Even with the third row up, our members could still fit a few small bags and backpacks behind it — something not all midsize SUVs manage well.

Most importantly, safety is another area where this third-generation model punches above its weight. Toyota Safety Sense P is standard on all trims, plus extra standard features such as:

• Child seat anchors
• Child door locks
• Pedestrian detection system
• Traction control

Blind-spot warning is even included in higher trims like the XLE and SE. For newer drivers or parents with teen drivers, that’s a major peace of mind.

2015 Toyota Highlander

Though late-model Highlanders, like the 2019, introduced incremental improvements in horsepower and safety tech, the 2015 Highlander still earned its place among the best Toyota Highlander years.

At the heart of this third-gen Highlander is its 3.5-liter V6 base engine, which produces roughly 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission,  it delivers confident acceleration and ample towing capacity (2,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on trim levels). We do agree that the newer 2019 version offers a slight horsepower bump with its efficient 8-speed transmission, but many drivers find the 2015 setup perfectly capable for everyday use.

No matter the configuration, you’ll find adult-friendly legroom across the first two rows and a usable third row for occasional passengers. Plus, given a generous cargo capacity of up to 83.7 cubic feet (when the rear seats are folded), it easily ranks among the most practical midsize SUVs in its class.

Even when it comes to fuel economy, the 2015 Highlander holds its own with an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined in gas models and up to 28 MPG in the Limited Platinum Hybrid trims. On one of our tests (with five adult passengers and luggage), the Highlander hybrid model still averaged close to 27 MPG, barely dipping below EPA estimates. 

The gas V6, too, performed admirably in a suburban commute loop without requiring aggressive eco-driving habits. When a reliable vehicle delivers near its estimated numbers in actual practice, it shows how well-engineered the powertrain and weight distribution truly are.

2013 Toyota Highlander

Power and towing capacity aside, the 2013 models excel in real-world versatility. 

Take its 8-inch ground clearance, for example. Yes, on paper, it may not sound that extraordinary. But in practice, we could easily drive this second-gen Highlander over pothole-ridden roads, slushy winter streets, or gravel paths to remote campsites without the constant fear of scraping the undercarriage. 

Then, there’s the 109.8-inch wheelbase, which hits the ideal middle ground for SUV dynamics. A longer wheelbase improves highway stability, so the Highlander feels planted and smooth even at 70 MPH on the interstate — no jittery sway or harsh bouncing over expansion joints. 

But it’s not too long, either, which means you still get tight steering responses when weaving through parking lots or making U-turns on suburban streets. Paired with its tight 38.7-foot turning circle, you’ll find yourself pulling off surprise three-point turns in places where other SUVs would be forced to loop around the block.

Regarding payload capacity, these gas-powered Highlanders can carry up to 1,734 pounds. Simply put, you can load up all three rows with passengers, toss in luggage, a couple of coolers, bikes on a hitch rack, and maybe even a kayak up top — and you’re still operating safely within its limits!

Going for the hybrid options gives you an edge on gas mileage with 28 MPG, which translates to fewer gas station stops. Plus, the electric motor support makes acceleration smoother and noise levels noticeably lower, which your passengers (and your stress levels) will thank you for on longer drives.

2009 Toyota Highlander

Even more than a decade after its launch, the 2009 model still places itself among the most reliable Toyota Highlander years.

Despite being one of the older releases, the 2009 model comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 270 horsepower (similar to its 2015 sibling). That explains why acceleration is impressively quick, especially when we move from a complete stop or try to pass another vehicle on the highway. Daily driving feels calm and under control thanks to the smooth power delivery, and it rarely feels weighed down even when the SUV is fully loaded.

For those who want better fuel economy, the Highlander hybrid model is totally worth a look. It combines a 3.3-liter V6 with electric motors to deliver a combined 26 MPG. That’s quite a huge advantage for a three-row SUV from 2009; since you can stretch your gas tank much longer, we highly recommend this model for commuters or families who drive frequently.

Inside the cabin of this second-generation model, the layout is simple but smart. Controls are clearly marked, and materials hold up well over time. Even base models come with advanced features like remote keyless entry and cruise control to make your combined driving twice as convenient. On top of that, higher trims like the Limited even offer premium upgrades such as leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and proximity keyless entry. 

On another note, keep in mind that even with all its strengths, this is still a vehicle from 2009. The infotainment system lacks modern tech, meaning there’s no touchscreen, no Apple CarPlay, and no Android Auto. 

2007 Toyota Highlander

If you’re browsing for a used SUV that proves itself in long-term reliability, the 2007 Toyota Highlander deserves a serious look. 

This first-generation Highlander comes in multiple trims (base Sport Utility, Sport SUV, and two Highlander hybrid variants) to give you flexible choices based on your priorities. 

Every version came with a 3.3-liter V6 engine — quite a sweet spot for everyday power. Sure, with 215 horsepower in gas models (208 horsepower in Highlander hybrids), this first-gen Highlander clearly wasn’t built to race. Nevertheless, we found that it handled merging onto highways, climbing hills, and passing slower traffic with relative ease. 

Regarding towing capacity, its 3,500-pound delivery might not seem as impressive as the 5,000 pounds in later years. But no worries; it’s still more than just a grocery-getter! Drivers who enjoy road trips or outdoor hobbies can pull a small boat, jet skis, or even a lightweight camper without much hassle. 

In terms of comfort and standard equipment, these first-generation models really deliver for the time. Cruise control, for example, helps reduce your fatigue on long drives. Available Bluetooth wireless technology and hands-free phone integration let you take calls safely while driving — which wasn’t too common back in 2007. There is even a layer of privacy glass to keep the cabin cooler and give rear-seat passengers more comfort.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Toyota Highlanders

• Engine Performance: Most Highlanders come with a V6 engine. Nevertheless, note that horsepower and transmission types can vary by year. For example, newer models like the 2020 feature a more refined 8-speed transmission for smoother acceleration. On the other hand, older models may have 5- or 6-speed setups that still offer reliability but slightly less efficiency.
• Towing Capacity: Depending on the year and trim, towing capacity can range from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. If you plan to haul a trailer, camper, or small boat, we suggest aiming for V6 models from 2013 onward, which generally offer the highest ratings.
• Interior Space and Seating Layout: Some model years seat up to eight passengers with bench-style second rows. By contrast, others opt for seven-passenger layouts with captain’s chairs. All in all, you must consider carefully who you regularly travel with and whether cargo space or people-hauling is more important for you.
• Fuel Economy: Toyota Highlander hybrid years, especially from 2013 to 2015, offer significantly better fuel efficiency (up to 28 MPG) compared to standard gas versions. If you do a lot of city driving or long commutes, a hybrid trim may be the more cost-effective choice over time.
• Technology and Standard Safety Features: High-end features like touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, and blind-spot warning were added gradually over the years. Unlike the 2019 and 2020 models that come with more advanced systems and standard Toyota Safety Sense, older versions usually lack smartphone integration or have more basic tech.

Still have questions or want a second opinion? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!