2001-2007 Toyota Highlander: Road Test

Capable all-around, the Highlander benefits from Toyota-style reliability. An AWD Highlander with the 3.0-liter V6 accelerated to 60 mph in a pleasing 8.5 seconds. Models with the larger 3.3-liter V6 did even better getting to 60 mph in just 8.1 seconds. Still, a fully loaded Highlander feels a bit lazy off the line and also in midrange passing, despite smooth, responsive automatic transmission. Surprisingly, the 4-cylinder doesn't feel underpowered, but does lack midrange passing power. With the 3.0-liter V6 and AWD, Highlanders averaged 16.4 mpg in mostly city driving, and 17.6 mpg including performance testing. In a mix of urban/suburban commuting, fuel economy rose to 19 mpg. Economy with the 3.3-liter V6 slumped to just 15.1 mpg. Toyota recommends premium fuel for the V6 and regular grade for the four cylinder. Engine noise is seldom intrusive. Wind noise rises sharply with speed, and coarse pavement tire drone causes rear-seat riders to raise their voices. A firmer suspension than in the RX 300 lets most every bump register, but the Highlander's ride is not jarring, always composed, and shuns the side-to-side wiggling motion that afflicts some SUVs. Pleasant-handling Highlanders are maneuverable and stable. The body leans in turns, but overall control is among the best of any midsize SUV. Helping is steering with fine road feel, despite being slightly overassisted. Standard ABS with Brake Assist furnishes acceptable performance, but pedal action is mushy, and nosedive is evident in hard stops. The optional antiskid system provides appropriate corrections in slippery corners. AWD is not as capable off-road or in deep snow as traditional 4WD might be. Main gauges are set deeper in "coves" than ideal for readability. They're still legible, though painted surrounds reflect sunlight. The gearshift sprouts from the dashboard, as in the RX 300; it's inviting to use, but can get knocked into Neutral by a driver's hand returning from cupholder to steering wheel. Cupholders are too large to secure a soda can. Controls are positioned conveniently and move smoothly, though audio and climate system graphics aren't always obvious. The cabin is solidly assembled from durable materials, but ambiance is middle-market austere even with leather. Front space is generous in all dimensions, though the moonroof housing eats into head room. Seats are nicely supportive, but unexpectedly firm. The driver gets an elevated view of the road, over a long dashtop that's more minivanlike than SUV-style. Entry/exit requires slight extra effort, due to SUV-like ground clearance. Second-row head, shoulder, and knee clearance are spacious, but tight toe space tarnishes the advantages of a virtually flat floor. The second-row seat is too firm. The optional 3rd-row seat is only fit for kids. Absence of a third-row seat creates a tall, wide cargo hold. Split 60/40, the rear seat moves down and forward to form a nearly flat load floor. With headrests removed, front seatbacks fold rearward for sleeper-ready versatility. With the 3rd-row seat, storage space is skimpy, somewhat better with it folded. Storage bins are plentiful.

Value for the Money
Aside from slightly elevated ground clearance, Highlander doesn't really do anything better than an AWD minivan would, sacrificing in the bargain such agreeable features as space-efficient sliding side doors and seven-passenger seating. That said, for most shoppers the Highlander is a far smarter choice than a truck-based SUV. Its all-around competence, pricing, and Toyota design make it more than a match for midsize SUVs of any stripe. New or used, it's an easy Best Buy.