• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability

Toyota Highlander - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Toyota Highlander ranks 6 out of 31 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Highlander, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Toyota Highlander is a functional, family-friendly crossover. Riding on a platform shared with the Toyota Camry and Avalon, the second-generation Highlander boasts decent fuel economy, three available rows of seats and a smooth, car-like ride.

 

With a base price of $27,600, the Highlander is one of the more affordable midsize SUVs and it's a good value over time. IntelliChoice gave the 2009 model a value rating of "Excellent" because of its low cost of ownership over five years. In fact, the Highlander won our 2009 Best Midsize Crossover for the Money award for its all-around value. "Interior versatility, good fuel economy, a strong V-6 engine, carlike refinement, and a handsome and spacious interior should be enough to put the Highlander on any mid-size-SUV buyer's shopping list," says Car and Driver.

While the Highlander is a solid choice, there are even more affordable alternatives within its class that may be worth a look. A better option might be the Chevrolet Traverse, which is about $1,000 less than the three-row Highlander and features a third row that's comfortable even for adults. If you can live without a third row, consider the Mazda CX-7. It costs about $6,000 less than the Highlander and boasts an especially zippy, fun driving experience. However, while the CX-7 may seem cheaper, its value over time isn't -- IntelliChoice gives the 2009 model a "Poor" value rating.

The Highlander is unchanged for 2010, which means you might consider buying a 2009 model. You could snag a discount as dealers make room on their lots for the 2010s. Be sure to check out our Toyota deals for current incentives. The Highlander comes in base, Sport and Limited trims. The Highlander Hybrid is reviewed separately. 

• "Highlander is a competent, refined, family-focused SUV that offers great practicality, cargo and passenger versatility, and evident quality. Versions with the conventional V6 engine best represent Highlander's attributes, as the Hybrid models' higher prices may take years to offset in fuel savings." -- Consumer Guide
• "Aside from some questionable cabin materials, the Highlander is a worthy contender in a competitive segment." -- CNET
• "Stylish? Yes. Functional? Yes. Family-friendly? Yes. Sassy? Yes. Van-like comfort? Yes, and without ever having to drive a van." -- Mother Proof
• "Many on staff said they [would] take vehicles like the Mazda CX-9 and GM's new line of utes over the Highlander, but as a trucky alternative to a minivan, the Highlander will definitely appeal to a lot of folks." -- AutoWeek
• "It's still no jet-pack, but at right around $25,000...the 4-cylinder Highlander is reasonably economical, roomy and stylish transport." -- Road & Track
• "With plenty of room, power and features, the...Toyota Highlander is optimized for family use. If you're shopping for a midsize crossover SUV, make sure you try this Toyota." -- Edmunds

 

Highlander Performance - 7.8 (Good)

The 2010 Toyota Highlander performs well enough, but its performance is predictable compared to some of its quicker, more fun-to-drive rivals. "Pleasant to drive, though not quite car-agile," says Consumer Guide. "Cornering lean is evident and steering response a bit slow on Base and Limited models; Sport is only slightly better."  Most reviewers appreciate the Highlander's powerful engine and smooth ride, but continue to complain about its numb electric steering.  Read More

Highlander Exterior - 7.4 (Good)

The Toyota Highlander's exterior is generally viewed as ordinary and doesn't receive much praise. "The result is an improved look, but nothing dramatic," says the Fort Worth Star-Telegram of its 2008 redesign. "In fact, many consumers will consider it to be still quite bland."  Read More

Highlander Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)

The 2010 Toyota Highlander's interior stands out for its versatile seating capacity and high-quality materials. "Interior: Good," says the Detroit News. "Well-appointed with a number of options to keep the driver comfortable and the passengers entertained." The Highlander boasts an abundance of high-tech options, including a voice-activated navigation system and rear DVD entertainment system.  Read More

Highlander Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)

The 2010 Toyota Highlander does well in federal government crash tests and comes with rare safety features including a driver's knee airbag. "Highlander is equipped with one of the highest levels of standard safety features in the small-, and mid-SUV segments," says Truck Trend.  Read More

Highlander Reliability - NA

The 2010 Toyota Highlander comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.  Read More