Toyota Highlander: Best Year to Buy Insights

Toyota Highlander: Best Year to Buy

Overview

The Toyota Highlander has carved out a solid reputation in the midsize SUV market. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features, the Highlander has become a go-to choice for many auto owners. Whether you’re carting around kids, heading out on a road trip, or simply need a dependable vehicle for daily commutes, the Highlander has something to offer. However, not all model years are created equal, and knowing which year to buy can save you from headaches down the road.

Why Model Year Matters

When considering a used Toyota Highlander, the model year is crucial for several reasons:

• Costly Repairs: Some model years may have known issues or recalls that can lead to expensive repairs. Being aware of these can help you avoid a lemon.
• Resale Value: Certain years hold their value better than others. If you plan to sell or trade-in your vehicle down the line, it pays to know which years are more desirable in the used market.
• Features and Updates: Automakers often make significant changes from year to year. A model year might introduce new technology or safety features that can enhance your driving experience.
• Fuel Efficiency: Improvements in fuel economy can vary by year, impacting your long-term operating costs.

Many prospective buyers often find themselves asking about the best year to buy a Toyota Highlander for these reasons. Whether it’s avoiding a model year known for engine troubles or seeking out the latest tech features, being informed can lead to a more satisfying ownership experience.

Best Years to Buy and Years to Avoid

Best Years to Buy

When it comes to the Toyota Highlander, certain model years stand out as the best options for buyers looking for reliability, features, and overall value. Here’s a breakdown of the years you should consider:

2017 Toyota Highlander

The 2017 Highlander is often regarded as one of the best years to buy. It features a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a strong V6 engine. Key highlights include:

• Advanced Safety Features: This model year comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision systems.
• Interior Quality: The materials used in the 2017 Highlander are high-quality, and the layout is user-friendly, making it a great choice for families.
• Reliability: Owners report fewer issues compared to earlier models, making it a dependable option.

2018 Toyota Highlander

The 2018 model continues the trend of excellence set by its predecessor. It offers a few updates that enhance its appeal:

• Infotainment System: The 2018 Highlander includes an upgraded infotainment system with better connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Comfort: The ride quality is smooth, and the cabin is quiet, making it ideal for long trips.
• Resale Value: This model year holds its value well in the used market, making it a smart investment.

2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Highlander represents a significant redesign that improves upon many aspects of previous models:

• Spaciousness: The 2020 model offers more cargo space and a roomier third row, accommodating larger families.
• Hybrid Option: This year introduced a more efficient hybrid variant, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
• Enhanced Technology: The latest tech features, including a larger touchscreen and advanced driver-assistance systems, make it a modern choice.

Years to Avoid

While the Highlander has many strong years, some model years are better left on the lot. Here’s a look at the years you should steer clear of:

2008 Toyota Highlander

The 2008 model is notorious for several issues that make it a risky buy:

• Transmission Problems: Many owners report transmission failures, which can be costly to repair.
• Suspension Issues: There are complaints about premature wear on suspension components, leading to a bumpy ride.
• Fuel Economy: This model year does not perform well in terms of fuel efficiency compared to newer models.

2013 Toyota Highlander

The 2013 Highlander has its share of problems that can turn potential buyers away:

• Interior Quality: Many owners have noted that the interior materials feel cheap and do not hold up well over time.
• Engine Performance: Some users have reported issues with the engine stalling or running roughly.
• Limited Features: Compared to other models in the same generation, the 2013 Highlander lacks some of the modern features that buyers expect.

2014 Toyota Highlander

The 2014 model, while not the worst, has some red flags that should be considered:

• Brake Issues: There have been reports of premature brake wear, which can lead to additional maintenance costs.
• Infotainment Glitches: Many owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, including connectivity issues.
• Fuel Economy: Similar to the 2013 model, fuel efficiency is not as competitive as other years.

By focusing on the best and worst years of the Toyota Highlander, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.

Facts About Toyota Highlander: Best Year to Buy

Reliability Rankings

The Toyota Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability across various automotive review platforms. According to sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, certain model years have received top marks for dependability. Here are some key statistics:

• J.D. Power Reliability Ratings: The 2017 and 2018 Highlanders received a score of 4.5 out of 5, indicating a high level of reliability.
• Consumer Reports: The 2020 Highlander was rated as one of the best midsize SUVs, with a reliability score of 85 out of 100.
• RepairPal: The Highlander has an average annual repair cost of around $400, which is lower than the average for midsize SUVs, making it a cost-effective choice.

Real Ownership Costs

When it comes to ownership costs, the Toyota Highlander stands out for its affordability in maintenance and repairs. Owners frequently report satisfaction with the overall cost of ownership, particularly for the best years to buy. Here are some insights based on user feedback:

• Fuel Economy: Owners of the 2017 and 2018 models report average fuel economy of around 22-24 MPG combined, which is competitive for its class.
• Insurance Costs: The Highlander typically has lower insurance premiums compared to other midsize SUVs, with an average annual cost of about $1,200.
• Depreciation: The 2017 and 2018 models have shown slower depreciation rates, retaining about 60% of their value after five years.

User Feedback & Forum Consensus

To gain a better understanding of owner experiences, we compiled feedback from various automotive forums and user reviews. Here’s a summary of what Highlander owners commonly say:

This feedback provides a well-rounded view of the Toyota Highlander, particularly the best years to buy, helping prospective buyers make informed decisions based on real-world experiences.