The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander (XU70) is a large 3-row family SUV (up to 7 or 8 seats) based on the TNGA-K modular platform. Designed primarily for the North American market but sold globally (including in Western Europe for the first time as a hybrid version), it stands out for its supreme comfort, build quality, and very high level of reliability. In 2023, the legendary naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 was replaced by a torquier and more efficient 2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder, although less refined in terms of sound. The 2.5L hybrid version remains the most popular choice for its unbeatable running costs in this weight category.
The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander is one of the most reliable and rational 3-row family SUVs on the market, regularly praised by Consumer Reports and the ADAC. If you are looking for a classic gasoline engine, the old 3.5L V6 (2020-2022) is a monument of smoothness and reliability, although quite thirsty. The new 2.4 Turbo (2023+) gets the job done with more torque but less refinement. However, the real star of the lineup is the 2.5L Hybrid version: it offers foolproof reliability (proven HSD system) and fuel consumption worthy of a compact sedan, making it the absolute best choice for this vehicle. Recalls are numerous but mainly concern assembly adjustments or software updates, confirming the model's mechanical excellence.