| Toyota Highlander | |
|---|---|
_1X7A6356.jpg) 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid (XU70, Germany) | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Toyota |
| Also called |
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| Production | 2000–present |
| Model years | 2001–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mid-size crossover SUV |
| Body style | 5-doorSUV |
| Layout |
|
| Chassis | Unibody |
TheToyota Highlander (Japanese:トヨタ・ハイランダー,Hepburn:Toyota Hairandā), also known as theToyota Kluger (Japanese:トヨタ・クルーガー,Hepburn:Toyota Kurūgā) in some markets, is amid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced byToyota since 2000.
The Highlander was announced in April 2000 at theNew York International Auto Show, arriving in Japan in late 2000, and North America in January 2001. It was among the first of a new class of mid-size SUVs that were based on a car platform (later known as crossovers). At the time, the Highlander was built on the company's existingToyota K architecture, shared with theCamry.[1] The Highlander became Toyota's best-sellingSUV in the US before being surpassed by the smallerRAV4 in 2006.
The first-generation model was sold in Japan as the Kluger, which was exclusive to a dealership network calledToyota Netz as a larger alternative to the RAV4. The Kluger nameplate is also used in Australia because "Highlander" is a trademarked trim line name owned byHyundai. The name is derived from the German wordklug, which means smart or clever (klüger – withdiacritics – means "more clever“ in German).[2]
The Highlander became abattery electric model in 2026 for the 2027 model year.
| First generation | |
|---|---|
 2001–2003 Toyota Highlander (MCU20) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | XU20 |
| Also called | Toyota Kluger (Japan and Australia) |
| Production | November 2000 – May 2007[3] |
| Model years | 2001–2007 |
| Assembly | Japan:Miyawaka, Fukuoka (Toyota Motor Kyushu)[3] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Toyota K platform |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,715 mm (106.9 in) |
| Length | 4,681–4,714 mm (184.3–185.6 in) |
| Width | 1,826 mm (71.9 in) |
| Height | 1,679–1,750 mm (66.1–68.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,716 kg (3,784 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Toyota Vanguard (XA30) (for Kluger, Japan) |
The Highlander (or Kluger in Japan and Australia) shared a platform with itsXU30 series Lexus RX/Toyota Harrier cousin. It came in five (2001–2007) and seven-seat (2004–2007) configurations and became a sales success for Toyota in a number of markets across the world. The Highlander came standard withfront-wheel drive and offered full timefour-wheel drive. A rearlimited-slip differential was optionally available on models without traction control.[4] Unlike Toyota's own4Runner and other mid-sized competitors such as theJeep Grand Cherokee, orChevrolet TrailBlazer, the Highlander aimed for on-road comfort with itsunibody construction and independent rear suspension. Although it was longer than the 1996–2002 4Runner available at the time it was launched, the Highlander was surpassed in length by the redesigned 4Runner in August 2002.
The Highlander was available in three trim lines in the United States: the base model, the Sport model, and the Limited model. The base and Limited models were present when the Highlander was initially introduced, while the Sport model was introduced in March 2006. For the 2004 model year, the wheels on the Limited trim changed from a six-spoke to a five-spoke alloy. The base-model Highlander wheels also changed from steel-rims to the alloy wheels that were on the 2001–2003 model year Highlander Limited and B-Package. The Sport models had a distinctive grille design, differentiating themselves from the non-Sport models. Wheel styling also serves to differentiate the various models—the hybrid sports a unique twin-spoke design.
Engines:
The 3.0-liter engine was able to propel the Highlander from 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) in approximately 8.8 seconds. For 2004 the Highlander was given a new 3.3-liter V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly theNissan Murano and theHonda Pilot. The larger engine made it possible for the Highlander to reach 0 to 97 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 7.8 seconds.
The Kluger was introduced to Australia in October 2003. It was available in three guises: CV, CVX, and Grande. A limited edition CV Sport model was also released in 2006. There was no hybrid model available in Australia. The only engine offered was the 3.3-liter3MZ-FEV6. Typical fuel economy using the Australian standard testing regime is 12.3 L/100 km (23.0 mpg‑imp; 19.1 mpg‑US).
For the 2001 model year, the Japanese and Australian Kluger was released with a center console integrated with the dashboard, while the North American Highlander initially lacked this integrated center console. This meant that the cup holders before 2002/2003 were integrated to the seats. The integrated center console was introduced in all US Highlanders and in Canadian Limited Highlanders in late 2001, for the 2002 model year, and in all Canadian Highlanders in late 2003, for the 2004 model year. However, for early Highlanders without the integrated center console, a smaller non-integrated stand-alone center console was available as an option, either factory or dealer installed.
For the 2004 model year, an updated 3.3-liter engine was introduced alongside a new five-speed automatic transmission for the V6-powered models. The five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed automatic transmission paired with the outgoing 3.0-liter V6, while the inline-four models remain unchanged. This year also saw the introduction of the optional third row seat allowing for two additional passengers. A DVD-based navigation system was introduced to the Highlander for the 2006 model year as an option on the Hybrid Limited trim. The unibody was slightly modified behind the second row seats to include a depression in the hatch floor able to accommodate the optional third row seating. On models without third row seating, this space was turned into a storage compartment. (prior to 2004 the spare tire was accessible from inside the vehicle where the third row seating would subsequently be located; beginning in 2004 the spare tire is accessible from underneath the vehicle). Subtle changes to the front grille, front and rear bumpers, headlights and tail lights round-out the major changes for the 2004 refresh.
In 2005, for the 2006 model year, Highlanders sold in Canada were offered only in a V6all-wheel drive configuration. Hybrid models were available with part-time four-wheel drive, which Toyota refers to as 4WD-i whereby the rear wheels are powered by a separate electric motor. This system is intended for use on snow and ice and is prone to overheating the rear electric motor off-road.[5]
Anti-lock brakes,brake assist andelectronic brakeforce distribution were standard,Vehicle Stability Control w/traction control optional on 2001–03 models became standard for 2004 models (Hybrids come standard withVDIM). Also standard for 2004 was a tire pressure monitor. Front seat-mountedside torso airbags were optional on 2001–06 models, while front and second rowside curtain airbags were optional on 2004–06 models. Side airbags became standard on 2007 models and the curtain airbags gained a rollover sensor that year as well.
| Frontal Driver: |   |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover: | |
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover (2005):[8] | |
InInsurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests the Highlander was rated "Good" overall in the frontal offsetcrash test.[9] The IIHS reported the Highlander had one of the lowest driver fatality rates among all vehicles, and amongst SUVs, only the Toyota 4Runner had a lower driver fatality rate. This report looked at 2001–2005 model year vehicles in the US.[10]
Initially, the Kluger was a regular, non-hybrid SUV driven by an internal combustion engine, but later Toyota introduced ahybrid version, theKluger Hybrid that utilizes the company'sHybrid Synergy Drive technology combined with the company's3MZ-FE 3.3-liter V6 engine offered in either FWD or AWD trim. The hybrid drivetrain was unveiled at the2004 North American International Auto Show, and was offered to the public in July 2005 as a 2006 model. The power steering pump, water pump and AC compressor were changed from belt-drive to electrically powered versions. A modifiedalternator was incorporated into the hybrid system.
In North America, the hybrid version was called theHighlander Hybrid. It was also the first seven-seathybrid vehicle from Toyota.[13] With the electric motors providing power, overall acceleration improved, particularly at passing speeds. Other additions include Toyota'sVehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system andElectronically Controlled Brake (ECB). TheCalifornia Air Resources Board gave it aSULEV emission rating. TheUS Environmental Protection Agency (revised standards) rated it at 8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg‑imp (28 mpg‑US) City/9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp (25 mpg‑US) Highway for FWD models and 8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg‑imp (27 mpg‑US)/9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp (25 mpg‑US) for AWD models. This system is near identical to that of theLexus RX 400h. All-wheel drive models were rated to tow 1,600 kg (3,500 lb).
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 2008–2010 Toyota Highlander Limited (GSU40) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | XU40 |
| Also called | Toyota Kluger (Australia) |
| Production |
|
| Model years | 2008–2013 |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Toyota K platform |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,789 mm (109.8 in) |
| Length | 4,785 mm (188.4 in) |
| Width | 1,910–1,918 mm (75.2–75.5 in) |
| Height | 1,730–1,760 mm (68.1–69.3 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,835 kg (4,045 lb) |
_Grande_wagon_(2012-10-26)_02.jpg)
Toyota revealed the second generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid at the2007 Chicago Auto Show, with American sales beginning in July and hybrids in late September.[18][19] The second generation Highlander and Highlander Hybrid were not sold in Japan. The five-seat Highlander for the United States and Canada was dropped as theVenza replaced it.
Initially the sole powertrain for the 2008 Highlander was a 201 kW (270 hp; 274 PS) 3.5-liter2GR-FE V6 mated to a five-speedautomatic. The four-cylinder model had been discontinued but added again in 2009. While the 3.5-liter engine has 41 kW (55 hp; 56 PS) more than the previous 3.3-liter V6 and dimensional increases along with increased sound proofing added nearly 225 kg (500 lb) to the vehicle's curb weight of approximately 1,815 kg (4,000 lb), fuel economy is slightly improved. The EPA estimated fuel economy for front-wheel drive models is at 13 L/100 km (18 mpg‑US; 22 mpg‑imp) city and 9.8 L/100 km (24 mpg‑US; 29 mpg‑imp) highway (previous generation was: 14 L/100 km (17 mpg‑US; 20 mpg‑imp) city and 10 L/100 km (23 mpg‑US; 28 mpg‑imp) hwy).[20]
For 2009, Toyota again offered a 4-cylinder for 5-passenger front-wheel drive models with the all-new ULEV-II certified 2.7-liter1AR-FE I4 paired to a six-speed automatic. It generates 139 kW (187 hp; 190 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 252 N⋅m (186 lb⋅ft) of peak torque at 4,100 rpm on regular 87 octane fuel. The four-cylinder delivers an EPA estimated fuel economy of 12 L/100 km (20 mpg‑US; 24 mpg‑imp) city and 8.7 L/100 km (27 mpg‑US; 32 mpg‑imp) highway.[21] This is better than the previous model's four-cylinder with 12 L/100 km (19 mpg‑US; 23 mpg‑imp)/9.4 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US; 30 mpg‑imp).
The same three trim levels were offered (Base [also Base Plus after the 2011 refresh], Sport and Limited) until early 2010 when the SE model replaced the Sport model, buyers are still able to choose betweenfront-wheel drive orall-wheel drive on V6 platforms. Also new is anElectric Power Steering (EPS) system. Sport and Limited models get a standardbackup camera using a 3.5-inch LCD display (the LCD diaplay is optional on Base models; models without the LCD diaplay have a clock). Major options include leather seats, heated seats, a touchscreen DVD basednavigation system, a newSmart Key System, an upgradedJBL Synthesis stereo, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch screen, and a towing package that increases towing capacity to 5000 pounds.
The XU40 was initially produced exclusively at Toyota Motor Kyushu's Miyata plant for all global markets beginning in May 2007.[22][3][14][23] Production in China for local sales was started on 25 May 2009 by GAC Toyota in Nansha District, Guangzhou, Guangdong.[24] Toyota had intended on building the Highlander inBlue Springs, Mississippi for the North American market in the 2011 model year.[25] However, theCorolla was built there instead, and the Highlander is being built atToyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana inPrinceton, Indiana, from the 2010 model year onward for a majority of North America, replacingTundra production.[26] TMMI Highlander production began in October 2009 for gasoline engine models only; hybrids continued to be imported from Japan until the release of the third generation XU50, where all production except for China was consolidated at TMMI.
In Australia, the new generation Kluger was launched in August 2007. There are three trims available, KX-R, KX-S and Grande. All trims are available with either 2WD or AWD. The base model KX-R is also available with either five or seven seats, whilst the latter trims are seven seaters only. Specifications are mostly similar to the US Highlander, sharing the same 3.5-literV62GR-FE engine and five-speed automatic transmission.
In 2010, for the 2011 model year, Toyota made some changes to the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid. While the general design remains similar to the 2008–2010 model, the Highlander's front end has been significantly revised, now featuring new headlights, a new black with chrome accent rocker panel, and new front grille. The non-hybrid engines for 2011 remain the same, although now the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine may be had on the SE trim level, previously only available on the base model. More standard features are now equipped on all trim levels, with the base model receiving rear air conditioning, third row seating, cruise control, and a multi-function keyless entry control.[27] The facelifted model was also sold in Russia from 2010 to 2013.
Pre-facelift styling
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Post-facelift styling
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_KX-R_wagon_(2015-06-18)_02.jpg)
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover: | |
All models come standard with enhancedVehicle Stability Control which immediately alters electric powering steering assist w/traction control (hybrids come standard withVDIM),anti-lock brakes,brake assist andelectronic brakeforce distribution. Also standard is a tire pressure monitor, a driver'sknee airbag, front seat-mountedside torso airbags,side curtain airbags for all three rows which includes a rollover sensor and active front headrests. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard which prevents rolling backwards on slopes, and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is standard on AWD trims.
The IIHS rates the Highlander "Good" overall in their frontal offset crash test, and good in all subcategories except for "Head/neck," which is rated as "Acceptable."[29] And "Good" overall in the side impact crash test, with "Good" rating in all nine measured categories.[30] The Highlander is also rated "Good" in the roof strength test, giving it a "top safety pick" rating.[31]
InAustralasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) testing the Kluger is given a rating but only a rating for pedestrian protection.[32]
The safety and effectiveness of the Highlander/Kluger's Vehicle Stability Control system has been questioned by some motoring journalists. During testing forWheels magazineCar of the Year in 2007, the magazine's editor rolled the vehicle during high-speed gravel road testing. Noting that it was the first such event in the magazine's 45-year history, he criticised the vehicle's stability system stating that "Deficiencies in the Kluger's ESP contributed to the crash". Six of the seven other judges also stated that they felt"the vehicle's ESP performance was sub-standard", and remarked that the vehicle was"almost dangerous on dirt [roads]". In a written response, Toyota disputed the circumstances of the accident and criticised the testing procedures as "unscientific".[34][35]
_(cropped).jpg)
The Hybrid features Toyota'sHybrid Synergy Drive which continues to allow an electric only powered mode for short distances and speeds. Weight and cost have been improved over the previous hybrid.[36][37]
The expanded size and new features have led to an increase of 500 pounds to itscurb weight. All Highlander Hybrids are all-wheel drive, and the EPA has rated the hybrid at 8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg‑imp (27 mpg‑US) for the city and 9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp (25 mpg‑US) for the highway,[38] same as the previous model. The Highlander's fuel economy, while better than theLexus RX 400h's, lags behind thecompact 4cylFord Escape Hybrid, which ceased production in 2012, and the latest RX 450h, but still produces significantly fewer emissions than the non-hybrid version with a CARB SULEV rating.
The Highlander Hybrid continues to use the same 3.3-liter3MZ-FE V6 (155 kW (208 hp; 211 PS)) offered in AWD from the prior model, net power is 175 kW (235 hp; 238 PS).VDIM andElectronically Controlled Brake remain new features include a driver selectable electric only EV mode (when possible) and another ECON mode which restricts acceleration and minimizes air conditioning during acceleration.[citation needed] The Highlander Hybrid Hybrid uses a 1.9kWh sealednickel-metal hydride traction battery.[39]
For the 2011 model year the Highlander Hybrid received styling changes and was upgraded with the 3.5-liter2GR-FXE V6 (183 kW (245 hp; 248 PS)), increasing net power by 7 kW (10 hp; 10 PS), and a powertrain similar to the RX450h. The vehicle is now rated at 8 L/100 km; 34 mpg‑imp (28 mpg‑US) for the city, highway and combined cycles.
The Highland FCHV was a test vehicle using compressed hydrogen gas, with average fuel economy of 109.9 km/kg (68.3 mi/kg) (approximate mpg equivalent).[40]
The vehicle was unveiled at the2007 LA Auto Show.[41]
The Chinese version of the Highlander (ASU40/GSU45) was unveiled in 2009 at the 13thShanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition.[42]
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
_GX_wagon_(2015-11-11)_01.jpg) 2015 Toyota Kluger GX (GSU55; pre-facelift) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | XU50 |
| Also called | Toyota Kluger (Australia) |
| Production |
|
| Model years |
|
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Matt Sperling (2009)[44] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Toyota K platform |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,789 mm (109.8 in) |
| Length | 4,854 mm (191.1 in) |
| Width | 1,925 mm (75.8 in) |
| Height | 1,730 mm (68.1 in) |
| Curb weight | 2,045 kg (4,508 lb) |
On 27 March 2013, Toyota unveiled the third generation XU50 series Highlander at theNew York International Auto Show, with the vehicle reached dealerships in early 2014. Production began on 5 December.[43] The XU50 version is longer and wider than the outgoing generation and its design has changed from its boxy look to one that is similar to other mid-size crossover SUVs.
_GX_wagon_(2015-11-11)_02.jpg)
_GXL_wagon_(2015-06-27)_03.jpg)
In addition to the changes, the XU50 featured seating for eight people with a sliding second-row point of entry that gives it 109 mm (4.3 in) of added width space, soft-touch materials on the instrument panel,lane-departure warning, pre-collision warning and blind spot monitoring systems. HD Radio and Bluetooth was standard on all trims for the US version, which will also come equipped with Toyota's Entune multimedia system along with a 6.1-inch touchscreen display audio system. An eight-inch touchscreen system and Toyota's Entune app suite with 12 JBL speakers were offered as an optional feature. The three powertrain trims that were offered include a 2.7-liter, six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive base model, a 3.5-liter, six-speed automatic model in both front- or all-wheel drive, and the AWD-only Hybrid trim with a 3.5-liter V6 mated to aneCVT.[45][46]
The Highlander is also approved for use as aNew York City taxicab.[47]
For the third-generation model, Toyota Motor Sales USA took the role of producing the Kluger for Australia and New Zealand after Japanese production of the second-generation model ended in 2013.[48][49][50] When the model was replaced with the succeeding XU70 model in 2019, production in the US continued for exports to both countries until 2021.[citation needed]
A refreshed 2017 model year Highlander appeared at theNew York International Auto Show in March 2016 with sales starting in the fourth quarter of 2016.[51] In V6 powered models, an eight-speed automatic replaced the six-speeder and the revised V6 engine (now designated2GR-FKS for pure gasoline models,2GR-FXS for hybrid models) added Toyota's D4-Sdirect injection fuel system.[52][53] The facelifted Highlander has an updated fascia with restyled headlights and tail lights, addition of SE trim, XLE and LE Hybrid trims, and updated exterior and interior colors.[54]
_IMG_2932.jpg)
_GX_wagon_(2018-09-17)_02.jpg)
Chinese market facelift styling
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| Overall: | |
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Passenger: | |
| Side Pole Driver: | |
| Rollover AWD: | 16.9% |
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Moderate overlap frontal offset | Good |
| Small overlap frontal offset (driver)(2014–2015) | Acceptable1 |
| Small overlap frontal offset (passenger) | Acceptable2 |
| Side impact | Good |
| Roof strength | Good3 |
| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD (GSU75) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | XU70 |
| Also called |
|
| Production | November 2019 – present |
| Model years | 2020–2026 (US) |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Yoshikazu Saeki[citation needed] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | TNGA:GA-K[62][63] |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Electric motor | 2xPermanent Magnet Synchronous Motors5NM + 40 kW (54 hp; 54 PS)4NM (hybrid) |
| Power output |
|
| Transmission | |
| Hybrid drivetrain | Power-split (hybrid) |
| Battery | 1.6kW·h Ni-MH (hybrid) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm (112.2 in) |
| Length | 4,950–5,014 mm (194.9–197.4 in) |
| Width | 1,930 mm (76.0 in) |
| Height | 1,730–1,755 mm (68.1–69.1 in)[64] |
| Curb weight | 1,880–2,018 kg (4,145–4,450 lb) |
The fourth-generation Highlander was unveiled at theNew York International Auto Show on 17 April 2019. It is built onGA-K platform.[62][63][65][66][67] In the United States, the fourth-generation Highlander gasoline model went on sale on 18 December 2019 for the 2020 model year. Compared to the previous generation, there is increased cargo room behind the third row and support was added for bothApple CarPlay andAndroid Auto.[68]
In Europe, the Highlander Hybrid went on sale in January 2021, solely with a hybrid powertrain.[69] The Highlander for the UK market has been available since March 2021, a year later than the US models due to the extensive engineering work for right-hand-drive models,[70] while the Kluger for the Australian market became available in June 2021.[71][59] The Highlander was also launched acrossGulf Cooperation Council countries around June and July 2020, where it is offered only as a Hybrid.[72][73] The Highlander Hybrid was also launched inSouth Korea on 25 July 2023.[74]
The Highlander will be reintroduced in Japan in 2026, which is imported from the US.[75] Unlike the first generation, it will be sold as Highlander rather than Kluger.
In China, the fourth-generation Highlander was launched on 19 April 2021 at theAuto Shanghai. The Highlander continued to be built and sold by GAC Toyota joint venture.[76] A twin model manufactured by FAW Toyota was launched simultaneously as theCrown Kluger (simplified Chinese:皇冠陆放;traditional Chinese:皇冠陸放;pinyin:Huángguàn Lùfàng). The Crown Kluger is based on the Highlander XSE sold in North America, with the Toyota badge on the front grille and steering wheel swapped for theCrown badge. Both are powered by a 2.5-liter engine with hybrid powertrain as an option.[61]
In North America, the fourth-generation Highlander is offered in L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum grades. A 2.5-liter gasoline/electric hybrid four-cylinder engine and Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) are available on all but L and XSE, and are standard equipment on the Bronze Edition grade. All grades are available with either Front Wheel Drive (FWD) or All Wheel Drive (AWD), except for Platinum which only has AWD.
The 2020 model year Highlander was awarded "Top Safety Pick" byIIHS, it received Good ratings in at least six crash test evaluations and it did not receive the higher-tier award as the base trim LED reflector headlights had poor visibility and produce excessive glare.[86]
| Small overlap front (driver) | Good | ||
| Small overlap front (passenger) | Good | ||
| Moderate overlap front (original test) | Good | ||
| Side (original test) | Good | ||
| Side (updated test) | Good | ||
| Roof strength | Good | ||
| Head restraints and seats | Good | ||
| Headlights (varies by trim/option) | Good | Acceptable | Poor |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle | Superior | ||
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian (Day) | Superior | ||
| Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use | Good | ||
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: | | |
| Adult occupant: | 34.53 | 90% |
| Child occupant: | 43.22 | 88% |
| Pedestrian: | 41.33 | 76% |
| Safety assist: | 13.20 | 82% |
| Fifth generation | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Production | 2026 (to commence) |
| Model years | 2027 |
| Assembly | United States:Georgetown, Kentucky (TMMK) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | |
| Platform | TNGA:GA-K |
| Powertrain | |
| Electric motor | ACpermanent magnet synchronous |
| Power output |
|
| Transmission | eAxle |
| Battery | 76.96–95.82 kWhlithium-ion |
| Range |
|
| Plug-in charging | NACS port 11 kW onboard charger (AC) 150 kW fast charging (DC) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 3,050 mm (120.1 in) |
| Length | 5,050 mm (198.8 in) |
| Width | 1,989 mm (78.3 in) |
| Height | 1,709 mm (67.3 in) |
The fifth-generation Highlander was unveiled on 10 February 2026. Unlike previous generations that offered gasoline and gasoline hybrid options, it is exclusively abattery electric vehicle. The design is similar to thebZ Large SUV concept unveiled in December 2021. Sales are set to start in late 2026 with more models in early 2027.[89][90][91]
The Grand Highlander was introduced for the North American market on 8 February 2023 as a larger alternative to the regular Highlander. Sharing the nameplate and theGA-K platform, the Grand Highlander features entirely different exterior and interior styling, as well as being longer, taller, and wider. It uses the same gasoline and gasoline hybrid powertrain as the Highlander, but also has an optional more powerful Hybrid MAX powertrain.[92]
| Year | United States | Canada[93] | Mexico[94] | Australia | China | Europe | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Hybrid[95] | Highlander[96] | Crown Kluger[97] | |||||
| 2001 | 86,700 | N/A | ||||||
| 2002 | 113,134[98] | N/A | ||||||
| 2003 | 120,174 | N/A | 1,380[99] | |||||
| 2004 | 133,077[100] | N/A | 7,655[99] | |||||
| 2005 | 137,409 | 17,989 | 1,742 | 7,160[101] | ||||
| 2006 | 129,794[102] | 31,485 | 2,260 | 4,973[101] | ||||
| 2007 | 127,878 | 22,052 | 4,466 | 1,293 | 7,886[103] | |||
| 2008 | 104,661[104] | 19,441 | 5,420 | 1,493 | 13,424[103] | |||
| 2009 | 83,118[105] | 11,086 | 4,831 | 1,262 | 12,848[106] | 35,410 | ||
| 2010 | 92,121 | 7,456[107] | 4,203 | 1,767 | 13,117[106] | 80,841 | ||
| 2011 | 101,252 | 4,549[108] | 5,574 | 2,126 | 11,692[109] | 94,633 | ||
| 2012 | 121,055[110] | 5,921[111] | 6,851 | 2,556 | 13,239[109] | 75,059 | ||
| 2013 | 127,572[112] | 5,070[111] | 7,648 | 1,631 | 12,668[113] | 95,216 | ||
| 2014 | 146,127[114] | 3,621[115] | 9,749 | 3,571 | 11,484[116] | 84,490 | ||
| 2015 | 158,915[117] | 4,015[118] | 10,412 | 3,946 | 13,955[119] | 75,205 | ||
| 2016 | 191,379[120] | 5,976[121] | 12,964 | 4,053 | 11,829[122] | 92,000 | ||
| 2017 | 215,775[123] | 16,864[124] | 15,259 | 3,562 | 12,509[125] | 100,244 | ||
| 2018 | 244,511[126] | 14,513[127] | 14,640 | 3,297[128] | 14,743[129] | 104,856 | ||
| 2019 | 239,438[127] | 18,248[127] | 13,811 | 3,085[130] | 11,371[131] | 98,506 | ||
| 2020 | 212,276[132] | 48,455 | 16,457 | 3,146[133] | 8,403[134] | 95,304 | ||
| 2021 | 264,128[135] | 65,167[135] | 19,885 | 3,670[136] | 9,320[137] | 107,733 | 25,893 | 10,518[138] |
| 2022 | 222,805[139] | 43,711 | 9,328 | 3,611[140] | 12,562[141] | 85,835[142] | 47,146[143] | 8,576[144] |
| 2023 | 169,543[145] | 49,654[145] | 3,836[146] | 10,430[147] | 73,437[148] | 48,241[149] | 3,897[150] | |
| 2024 | 89,658[151] | 24,777 | 5,195[152] | 9,868[153] | 78,884[154] | 52,672[154] | 6,458[155] | |
| 2025 | 56,208[156] | 24,720 | 77,227[157] | 59,902[157] | 1,757[158] | |||
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