2004 Toyota Highlander Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　For 2004, a larger 3.3-liter V6 replaces the 3.0-liter engine, resulting in 10 extra horsepower for a total of 230. Additionally, a fold-flat third-row seat (for two passengers) is now optional on base models and standard on the Limited. To keep the extra passengers content in back, a rear DVD entertainment system is available on Limited models. On the safety front, all Highlanders now come with an electronic stability control system and a tire-pressure warning system, while side curtain airbags for the first and second rows are optional across the board. Rounding out the changes are freshened exterior styling, new seat fabric, new instrument and door panel trim and a 5-hp boost for the base four-cylinder engine (now rated at 160).

　　

zzdcar says

　　Energized by a more powerful V6, an available third-row seat and new safety features, the Highlander is again one of our top recommendations for those who need SUV utility but don't want any unnecessary bulk or fuel bills.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2004 Toyota Highlander Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$175/mo  for Highlander Base

　　Highlander Base

　　Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A) - $24,080 MSRPFwd 4dr SUV w/3rd Row (2.4L 4cyl 4A) - $24,930 MSRPFwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5A) - $25,140 MSRPAWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A) - $25,480 MSRPFwd 4dr SUV w/3rd Row (3.3L 6cyl 5A) - $25,990 MSRPAWD 4dr SUV w/3rd Row (3.3L 6cyl 5A) (Most Popular) - $27,390 MSRPLimited Fwd 4dr SUV w/3rd Row (3.3L 6cyl 5A) - $29,980 MSRPLimited AWD 4dr SUV w/3rd Row (3.3L 6cyl 5A) - $31,380 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

2004 Highlander Highlights

Trim: BaseLimitedBase

　　

Base MSRP	$24,080
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$175/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	39.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles