| Last updated Oct, 2026
A used Toyota Highlander is one of the best three-row SUVs you can buy for reliability and resale value. It seats seven or eight, offers available all-wheel drive, and the Highlander Hybrid delivers fuel economy few three-row SUVs can touch. For most families, a 2020 or newer model offers the best balance of modern safety tech, comfort, and value. Just know the third row is best for kids.
Here's how the Highlander generations, engines, and trims compare, what to look for on a used one, and how it stacks up against other family SUVs.
Is a used Toyota Highlander worth it?
For most families, yes. The Highlander is comfortable, quiet, and known for running reliably well past 150,000 miles with regular maintenance. It also holds its value, so you won't lose as much when it's time to sell. The tradeoffs: the third row and cargo space behind it are tighter than in larger rivals like the Honda Pilot or Hyundai Palisade, and clean examples command strong prices.
Which Highlander years are best?
| Generation | Years | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| 4th gen | 2020 to present | Modern cabin, standard Toyota Safety Sense, and an efficient hybrid. 2020 to 2022 gas models use a 3.5L V6; 2023 and newer switched to a 2.4L turbo four. |
| 3rd gen | 2014 to 2019 | Lower prices and a proven 3.5L V6. 2017 and newer added standard Toyota Safety Sense and a more efficient V6 with an 8-speed automatic. |
Highlander engines explained
- 3.5L V6 (through 2022): smooth, strong, and proven. Rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- 2.4L turbo four (2023+): more low-end torque and slightly better fuel economy than the V6, with the same towing rating.
- Hybrid: the efficiency pick, with mileage in the mid-30s mpg on 4th-gen models and standard or available all-wheel drive. Towing capacity is lower than the gas models.
Weighing a hybrid? Read hybrid vs. gas.
Highlander trims explained
- L and LE: the value trims with the essentials and Toyota's safety suite.
- XLE: the most popular choice, adding a sunroof, heated seats, and more convenience features. Second-row captain's chairs are common.
- XSE (2021+): sport-tuned suspension and styling.
- Limited and Platinum: leather, premium audio, and the most tech, with a panoramic roof and larger screen on Platinum.
What to check on a used Highlander
- Third row and seat mechanisms: fold and unfold every seat. Family use is hard on them.
- Towing history: check the hitch and wiring, and ask about how often it towed.
- Hybrid system: on a Hybrid, make sure there are no warning lights and that the car switches smoothly between electric and gas power. Ask how much of the hybrid component warranty remains.
- Tires and brakes: heavier SUVs wear both faster than sedans.
- Maintenance records: regular oil changes and transmission service are a good sign.
- Open recalls: run the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup.
Highlander vs. other family SUVs
If you need a roomier third row, compare the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, or Toyota Grand Highlander. If you don't need three rows, the RAV4 saves money. See RAV4 vs. Highlander vs. 4Runner and our list of the best used SUVs for families.
Shop used Toyota Highlanders at CarVision
For families who want three rows without worrying about reliability, the Highlander is hard to beat. If your kids are getting bigger, sit in the third row before you buy, because that's where the Highlander gives up ground to the Pilot and Palisade. If you drive a lot of miles, the Hybrid is the one we'd pick.
Test drive a Highlander at CarVision
Bring the family to either CarVision showroom to try the third row, compare gas and Hybrid models, and talk through financing.
Join the Combined 13,800+ drivers who have reviewed CarVision on Google.
Frequently asked questions
Is a used Toyota Highlander worth it?
Yes, for most families. The Highlander is reliable, comfortable, holds its value, and offers three rows plus an efficient hybrid option. Its third row is best for kids.
What are the best years for a used Toyota Highlander?
For most buyers, 2020 and newer models offer the best mix of safety tech, comfort, and efficiency. Among older models, 2017 to 2019 added standard Toyota Safety Sense and an updated V6.
Does the Toyota Highlander have a V6?
Highlanders through the 2022 model year use a 3.5L V6. Starting in 2023, gas models switched to a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder. Hybrid models use a separate hybrid powertrain.
Is the Highlander Hybrid worth it?
If you drive a lot, yes. The 4th-generation Highlander Hybrid gets mileage in the mid-30s mpg, far better than most three-row SUVs, though it tows less than the gas models.
How much can a Toyota Highlander tow?
Properly equipped gas Highlanders with the V6 or 2.4L turbo are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Hybrid models have a lower rating.
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