Used Toyota Highlander Buying Guide

• Both generations covered have hybrid options, with both featuring great gas mileage.
• The 2021 model comes with the best safety features, making this the go-to option for those who want a safe family vehicle.
• Earlier third-generation models may be the way to go because their features don’t demand a higher price tag.

Going on sale in late 2019, the fourth generation came with some upgrades over the previous generation. This generation also comes with phone connectivity, making it easier than ever to access your favorite playlists and navigation apps.

This generation came in the L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims. All trims will be powered by a 2.5L I4, but there are some other engine options available. These other engines are the 2.4L turbocharged I4 and the 3.5L V6.

Being that the 2.5L I4 is a hybrid option, you can enjoy 36 MPG combined, per the EPA. This will be able to get you upwards of 600 miles on one tank, making it the best option for those who want to go the distance, both figuratively and literally.

If you find yourself looking at an LE trim, it will most likely be eight-passenger seating, but some will come with second-row captain’s chairs. Most trims besides the Limited and Platinum will come with an 8-inch screen, while the other two come with a 12.3-inch screen.

If you want the most comfort that the line has to offer from this generation, then you’ll want either a Limited or Platinum trim. This will equip your Highlander with leather upholstery and even ventilated seats, making sure you stay comfortable.

For model year 2021, the lineup saw its first round of changes. The biggest one for all trims is the addition of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This comes with semi-automated emergency steering technology, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beams. Thanks to these new safety features, the Highlander came with the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

With the 2022 model not really doing much, the 2023 model brought a bit more excitement. This year, the 3.5L was dropped, and the 2.4L I4 took its place. While it does produce less horsepower, it has the edge in torque. The 3.5L has 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L has 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

For model year 2024, there were some more changes to the line, with the biggest one being the removal of the L trim. With this change, all trims now come with a powered tailgate, making it easy to access the rear of the vehicle. When loading up the back, you have access to 16 cu-ft of cargo capacity, letting you load up what you need without worry.

When looking at this generation, there really isn’t much that stands out. Being that this model is older, it comes with features that were great for their time, but as time went on, they slowly fell behind. That means that you can find them at a better price, making the 6.1-inch touchscreen display audio system almost desirable in a weird way.

This generation also came with a few engines to pick from, offering a few hybrid options, with the most efficient one being the 3.5L V6, able to get 29 MPG combined, making it the one to look for when on the lot.