The 2009 Toyota Highlander ranks 6 out of 30 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Highlander, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Redesigned last year, the Highlander is a functional, family-friendly crossover. Riding on a new platform shared with the Toyota Camry and Avalon, the second-generation Highlander boasts a restyled exterior and larger dimensions than its predecessor. Along with its hybrid version, the Highlander wins our Best Midsize Crossover for the Money award for 2009 for its all-around livability and value.
"The latest Highlander from Toyota offers the same practicality and livability that made the first two generations a popular choice among families," says Car and Driver. "Interior versatility, good fuel economy, a strong V-6 engine, carlike refinement, and a handsome and spacious interior should be enough to put the Highlander on any mid-size-SUV buyer's shopping list." The Highlander was named a "Recommended" pick and "Best Family Vehicle" in 2008. For 2009, it gets a four-cylinder engine option for the base trim.
The Highlander comes in three trims -- base, Sport and Limited -- in either front- or all-wheel drive. This review focuses on the gasoline-powered Highlander, but a Toyota Highlander Hybrid is also available.
Be sure to check for current Toyota deals that may be available on a new Highlander.
"Highlander is a competent, refined, family focused SUV that offers great practicality, cargo and passenger versatility, and evident quality. Versions with the conventional V6 engine best represent Highlander's attributes, as the Hybrid models' higher prices may take years to offset in fuel savings." -- Consumer Guide
"Aside from some questionable cabin materials, the Highlander is a worthy contender in a competitive segment." -- CNET
"Minor gripes aside, the 2008 Toyota Highlander is radiant. Stylish? Yes. Functional? Yes. Family-friendly? Yes. Sassy? Yes. Van-like comfort? Yes, and without ever having to drive a van." -- Mother Proof
"Many on staff said they take vehicles like the Mazda CX-9 and GM's new line of utes over the Highlander, but as a trucky alternative to a minivan, the Highlander will definitely appeal to a lot of folks." -- AutoWeek
"It's still no jet-pack, but at right around $25,000 (final pricing has yet to be announced), the 4-cylinder Highlander is reasonably economical, roomy and stylish transport." -- Road & Track
"With plenty of room, power and features, the 2009 Toyota Highlander is optimized for family use. If you're shopping for a midsize crossover SUV, make sure you try this Toyota." -- Edmunds
Highlander Performance - 7.8 (Good)
The 2009 Highlander performs well enough, but comes up short when compared to some of its quicker, more fun-to-drive rivals such as the Nissan Murano. "Compared with a traditional body-on-frame SUV, the unibody structure is less heavy and cumbersome, which gives the Highlander driving dynamics similar to those of a large car but with a high seating position," says Car and Driver. Most reviews appreciate the Highlander's V6 engine power and smooth ride, but continue to complain about its numb electric steering. A four-cylinder engine option is new for 2009. Read More
Highlander Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The Toyota Highlander's exterior is generally viewed as ordinary and doesn't receive much praise. "The result is an improved look, but nothing dramatic," says the Fort Worth Star-Telegram of last year's redesign. "In fact, many consumers will consider it to be still quite bland." One major auto publication compares the Highlander's styling to vanilla ice cream. Read More
Highlander Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2009 Toyota Highlander's interior stands out for its versatile seating capacity and high-quality materials. New Car Test Drive says the SUV's look is "more upscale than the last model. Fit and finish are excellent and the design is attractive." Another reviewer says the Highlander's seats have "more tricks than Cirque du Soleil." Read More
Highlander Safety - 9.7 (Excellent)
The 2009 Toyota Highlander does well in federal government crash tests. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. "Highlander is equipped with one of the highest levels of standard safety features in the small-, and mid-SUV segments," says Truck Trend. Equipment includes a class-leading number of air bags. Read More
Highlander Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2009 Toyota Highlander reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 Toyota Highlander comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
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