Toyota Highlander II (XU40) (2008 – 2013)

Reliability score : 9.2/10

The second-generation Toyota Highlander (code name XU40) is a midsize family SUV offering up to 3 rows of seats. Designed primarily for the North American market (and sold under the name Kluger in Oceania), it is based on the Toyota K platform (shared with the Camry and the Lexus RX). It stands out for its ride comfort, interior space, and, above all, its hybrid powertrain (Hybrid Synergy Drive), which makes it an absolute benchmark in terms of total cost of ownership (TCO) and reliability in its segment. A facelift occurred in late 2010 (2011 model year), bringing cosmetic tweaks and replacing the 3.3L hybrid V6 with a more efficient 3.5L V6. According to Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, it consistently ranks above average in its class.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional reliability of the hybrid system (very durable NiMH battery)
Unbeatable total cost of ownership (TCO) in the 3-row SUV segment
High-level suspension comfort and soundproofing
Generous interior space for the first two rows
Extremely high resale value

⚠️ Weaknesses

Sluggish road handling (focused on comfort, no dynamism)
Cramped third row of seats (reserved for children)
Quality of some interior plastics (hard and prone to scratches)
Dated infotainment system
Electric power steering lacking feel

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation Toyota Highlander (2008-2013) is a highly recommended purchase, especially in its Hybrid version. It represents the archetype of the 'buy it and keep it' vehicle. The reliability of its Hybrid Synergy Drive system is proven, with NiMH batteries easily exceeding 250,000 km without major failure. The optimal choice is a facelifted model (2011-2013) equipped with the 3.5L Hybrid V6 (2GR-FXE), which eliminates the timing belt constraint of the previous 3.3L while offering more power and better efficiency. Ensure that the recalls (particularly concerning the accelerator pedal and the power window switch) have been performed.

Common issues

Dégradation de la batterie hybride (pack de cellules) High

🔧 180 000 – 280 000 km (ou 10-15 ans)

💶 2 500 – 5 000 € (pour remplacement par une reconditionnée ou neuve)

Vérifier l'état de la batterie hybride et son historique de maintenance.

Défaillance de l'actionneur/pompe du système ABS High

🔧 150 000 – 220 000 km

💶 1 800 – 3 000 €

Tester le système ABS et vérifier l'absence de voyants d'alerte liés aux freins.

Défaillance de l'onduleur (inverter) du système hybride High

🔧 200 000 – 300 000 km

💶 3 500 – 6 000 €

S'assurer qu'aucun voyant d'anomalie du système hybride n'est allumé.

Fuite ou défaillance de la pompe à eau du moteur thermique Medium

🔧 120 000 – 180 000 km

💶 450 – 800 €

Vérifier le niveau de liquide de refroidissement et l'absence de fuites sous le véhicule.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.