Used Toyota Highlander for Sale

The Toyota Highlander was first produced in the year 2000 and pioneered the crossover SUV field, as one of the first car-based, mid-size vehicles of its kind. The Highlander was originally built on the same platform as the Toyota Camry with the intent of combining the comfortable ride of a sedan with the cargo space and utility of a station wagon, minivan or full-size SUV.

2014-present (Highlander XU50 3rd Generation)

The third generation XU50 series Highlander is longer and wider than the previous generation, and its design has lost the formerly boxy look to more closely resemble the rounded profile of other similar SUVs. Seating for eight people is made possible by a sliding second row, which provides 4.3 additional inches of interior space. Also new are safety features such as blind spot monitoring systems as well as lane-departure and pre-collision warning systems. HD Radio and Bluetooth are now standard on all trims for the U.S. version, as is Toyota's Entune multimedia system with a touchscreen display.

The 2017 Highlander had a few additional internal and external changes. V6 models got an eight-speed automatic to replace the former six-speed tranny. The Highlander also now sports a new fascia with restyled headlights and taillights. Toyota added a new SE trim too, as well as XLE and LE Hybrid trims, in addition to new color choices.

2008-2013 (Highlander XU40 2nd Generation)

In 2007 the Highlander FCHV, a test vehicle using compressed hydrogen gas, was released. Meanwhile, the rest of the Highlander lineup was redesigned for 2008, growing bigger and more powerful. Whether front-wheel or all-wheel drive, all models were now powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. With rear and third-row seats folded down, there is nearly 15 cubic feet more interior space than previously. In early 2010, the SE model replaced the Sport model and Toyota introduced an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. A backup camera became standard on the Sport and Limited models. New interior options included heated seats and leather seats as well as the Smart Key system and a DVD-based navigation system with a touch-screen. Toyota also added a towing package that increased towing capacity to 5,000 pounds. For the 2011 model year, Toyota made more changes to both the base model and hybrid, including the addition of a third-row bench seat. The front end was significantly revised to feature new headlights and a rocker panel that was black with chrome accents, as well as a prominent new front grille. More new standard features include cruise control, front and rear AC, power locks/windows, and a multi-function keyless entry control.

For the hybrid, a driver's knee airbag and active front headrests became standard equipment. A new stability control system and electronically controlled braking were added. This model was also the first to have a driver-selectable, electric-only EV mode. In 2011, the Highlander Hybrid got a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, and combined with its high-torque electric motor in Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, delivered an output of approximately 280 hp.

2001-2007 (Highlander XU20)

In 2001, Toyota introduced the first Toyota Highlander with two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3-liter V6. In 2007, Toyota replaced the 3-liter V6 with a 3.3-liter engine. The Highlander shared a platform with its Lexus RX/Toyota Harrier cousin, and it was available with five seats from 2001–2007 and seven seats from 2004–2007. This original Highlander came standard with front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive as a 50/50 front/rear fixed-torque split. The first Highlander was available in three trim lines: the base, Sport, and Limited models. The base and Limited were offered when the Highlander was first introduced, while the Sport model came out in March 2006. ABS, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution were standard features, vehicle stability control with traction control also became standard in 2004, as did the tire pressure monitor. A center console built into the dashboard became standard in all U.S. Highlanders for 2002. For early Highlanders without the integrated center console, a smaller one was available as an option.

For the 2004 model year, Highlanders with the 3.3-liter engine came with a new five-speed automatic transmission, replacing the four-speed automatic transmission; the base four-cylinder models continued to use the old four-speed. This was also when Toyota introduced the optional third-row seat, accommodating two additional passengers. Beginning in 2004, the spare tire was moved from the interior to its current location underneath the vehicle. The Highlander Hybrid was the first seven-seat hybrid vehicle, first offered to the public in 2006.