2019 Toyota Highlander Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　

What's new

Only minor styling revisions for 2019Part of the third Highlander generation introduced for 2014

　　The 2019 Toyota Highlander is your quintessential three-row family mover. With comfortable seating, plenty of standard safety features, a strong V6 engine and an impeccable reputation for reliability, the Highlander checks all the boxes for large families in motion. Thanks to its just-right size, the Highlander is also easy to maneuver around town and does so at near-luxury levels of quiet and comfort.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Toyota Highlander LE 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A) 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

　　$174/mo  for Highlander LE

　　Highlander LE

　　LE 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A) - $31,830 MSRPLE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $33,880 MSRPLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $35,340 MSRPLE Plus 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $36,760 MSRPLE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $38,220 MSRPXLE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $39,720 MSRPXLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) (Most Popular) - $41,180 MSRPSE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $40,940 MSRPSE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $42,400 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $42,930 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $44,390 MSRPLimited Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $46,050 MSRPLimited Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) - $47,510 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　But the Highlander isn't flawless. Its third-row seat and cargo area aren't especially voluminous, and its infotainment system, while fine, doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration. The base four-cylinder engine is also pretty gutless, but at least the V6 that comes in most Highlanders is respectably stout.

　　It might be worth your while to look at some rival crossover SUVs. The Honda Pilot and the Volkswagen Atlas are roomier, for instance, and the Mazda CX-9 provides a more upscale and energetic driving experience. Overall, however, the popular Highlander has what it takes to satisfy the majority of your family-hauling needs.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

7.4 / 10

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Toyota Highlander XLE (3.5L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	7.4 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	8.0
Interior	7.5
Utility	7.5
Technology	7.0

　　

Driving

7.0

　　The Highlander's V6 has plenty of power for daily driving tasks, but it can be lazy to respond when you aren't asking for maximum acceleration. The steering is sometimes too light and less responsive than we'd like, and the Highlander's capabilities are merely average.

　　

Acceleration

7.5

　　Toyota makes a solid V6 engine. Mash the gas and the 3.5-liter V6 screams (almost too loudly) to life. Midrange power is commendable and good for passing and merging. Roll into the gas slowly, however, and the engine doesn't feel fully awake. It'll hit 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, which is about middle of the pack.

　　

Braking

7.0

　　The brake pedal engages with minimal effort. Responsiveness is predictable and progressive. In zzdcar' panic-stop brake test, our Highlander XLE slowed from 60 mph to a stop in 128 feet. That's an average distance for a three-row SUV.

　　

Steering

7.0

　　There is considerable free play in the steering wheel at low speeds. This vague communication takes getting used to. The super-light effort, however, certainly helps when parking a vehicle of these dimensions. The effort gets a bit heavier at speed, offering a greater sense of stability and control.

　　

Handling

7.0

　　The Highlander fits the classic big-and-boaty mold of large SUVs. It drives big in parking lots, though the low-effort steering alleviates some of the stress. When going around turns, the Highlander doesn't maintain its composure as well as the top players in the segment. Opt for straighter roads when possible.

　　

Drivability

7.0

　　The conservative gas pedal's response time is slow and can get annoying. Transmission shifts are otherwise smooth, and midrange power is commendable. Driver assist features are tuned conservatively, making for a generally laid-back driving demeanor.

　　

Off-road

8.0

　　Ground clearance is listed at 8 inches, which exceeds that of most in the segment. You also get above-average approach and departure angles for a family-oriented SUV. All-wheel-drive versions are available and include both hill descent control and an electronically lockable differential.

　　

Comfort

8.0

　　The Highlander's seats feel immediately comfortable but don't quite maintain it over long distances. Otherwise, there's a good amount of comfort thanks to a smooth ride, low amounts of noise and an effective climate control system.

　　

Seat comfort

7.0

　　The front seats are comfortable at the outset. But over long distances, their contours don't feel as supportive. A lack of seat-bottom adjustability may contribute here. The same can be said for the rear seats, though their reclining seatbacks help. The door armrests are ultra-plush.

　　

Ride comfort

8.5

　　The suspension smooths out all the bumps and ruts in the road commendably well. Over larger dips, there is an ever-so-slight sensation of buoyancy that may affect third-row riders sensitive to motion sickness. But the same can be said for other SUVs in its class.

　　

Noise & vibration

8.5

　　Passengers are well-isolated from exterior noise. Road noise will creep in over certain surfaces in the form of a steady hum, but there are certainly competitors less successful than the Highlander with regard to noise control. This cabin is comfortably quiet.

　　

Climate control

8.5

　　The automatic climate control functions use logical dials for temperature control and buttons for fan speed. Rear passengers control their own climate manually via a panel of buttons on the back of the center console. Heated and ventilated front seats work well, and ceiling-mounted vents for second and third rows help make everyone happy.

　　

Interior

7.5

　　The interior design is a mixed bag. The two front rows offer lots of lateral room, while the third row is a kids-only zone. Secondary controls are logically designed but a far reach due to the wide cabin. The passenger doors fully open, though they may be heavy for children to open. Visibility is fantastic.

　　

Ease of use

8.0

　　The size of the dash and distance from the driver require a stretch for some controls. The simplicity of dials for frequently used functions such as climate, volume and media selection is welcome, though touch-sensitive buttons near the display screen lack tactile feedback and require too much of your attention to push.

　　

Getting in/getting out

8.0

　　The wide doors open almost 90 degrees, making entry a breeze, but their size can be a drawback in tight spaces. Both the second-row captain's chair and bench seat options slide forward to allow easy third-row access. The levers to manipulate the seats are quite heavy to pull.

　　

Driving position

7.0

　　Driver-seat adjustability is such that most will find an acceptable position. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes, and there is a broad range of fore-aft seat movement. This said, thigh support is lacking, and the seat bottom does not extend or tilt upward to help support longer legs.

　　

Roominess

8.0

　　Headroom, legroom and elbow room are ample for first- and second-row occupants and even more prominent with the captain's chairs. The Highlander's tall, square interior shape adds to the spaciousness. Adults will not fit in the third row no matter how far forward the second-row seats are positioned.

　　

Visibility

8.0

　　A large windshield and tall side windows provide excellent outward visibility. Huge second-row headrests obstruct the over-the-shoulder view somewhat, but blind spots are minimal otherwise. The standard rearview and optional surround-view cameras are excellent.

　　

Quality

8.5

　　Despite a somewhat aging interior design, the Highlander offers excellent fit and finish all around. The leather seating is of a high quality, and interior pieces are soft where they should be. You get the sense that Toyota built the Highlander to last.

　　

Utility

7.5

　　The Highlander maximizes small-item storage. Kid- and parent-friendly touches include easy access to child seat installation points, enhanced passenger visibility and communication. But cargo volume isn't as spacious as it is in many others in the class.

　　

Small-item storage

8.0

　　An innovative storage nook runs the length of the dash. Cupholders are abundant, and the door pockets are long and wide. A deep bin between the front seats fits it all. The optional captain's chair configuration has shallow trays between the seats. Overall, the Highlander has plenty of storage for small items.

　　

Cargo space

6.5

　　With all three rows of seats up, the Highlander's cargo space trails the pack. The load floor, with the third-row and second-row seats folded down, is nearly flat with a volume of 83.2 cubic feet. The cargo space is decently roomy, but rivals such as the Chevy Traverse are noticeably bigger in back.

　　

Child safety seat accommodation

8.0

　　There is a lot of legroom for child seats in the second row, but it is tighter in the third. LATCH anchors and tethers are numerous and easily accessed. There is a conversation mirror for spying on your kids, as well as optional Driver Easy Speak feature, which uses speakers to amplify voices.

　　

Towing

7.5

　　Its 5,000-pound max tow rating (for SE and Limited trims) aligns with all the top players in this segment. A towing receiver hitch and wiring harness are available as an option.

　　

Technology

7.0

　　Top-trim Highlanders are safety tech-heavy. An impressive adaptive cruise control system is the highlight of their extensive list of driver aids. The ability to enable, disable and customize many of the features at the touch of a button is a real plus. There are also numerous options for device integration but no smartphone projection yet.

　　

Audio & navigation

7.0

　　The nav system is logical to use and will get you where you need to be. Traffic info is not as accurate as what's provided by smartphone projection apps used by competitive vehicles. We like the simple layout of the radio dials and redundant controls located both on the touchscreen and steering wheel.

　　

Smartphone integration

7.0

　　Bluetooth phone connection and switching between paired phones are quick. Media integration options vary from aux jacks to USB (five total!) to a two-prong 12-volt outlet. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Audio hurts the Toyota since many of its peers offer this integration as standard.

　　

Driver aids

8.0

　　Many driver aids are standard, and most can be activated or deactivated at will. The adaptive cruise system is especially effective, but the lane departure system only works when lanes are marked clearly.

　　

Voice control

7.0

　　Voice controls are basic (phone calls, navigation directions, radio tuning) and respond acceptably well once you've learned the correct prompt for each. Voice training is available to help effectiveness. The voice input volume is also adjustable, so the user does not have to shout to make commands.

　　

Which Highlander does zzdcar recommend?

　　Priced right in the middle of the Highlander lineup, the XLE is our pick. It comes standard with the V6 engine and several desirable extras, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and keyless entry and ignition.

　　

2019 Toyota Highlander models

　　The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a three-row crossover SUV that seats eight (optional second-row captain's chairs reduce capacity to seven). It's available in six trim levels: LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum.

　　

Toyota Highlander LE

The base LE starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (185 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The 3.5-liter V6 (295 hp, 263 lb-ft) that comes standard on all other trims is optional on the LE and pairs with an eight-speed automatic. Optional all-wheel drive can be added to the V6.

　　Standard LE features include 18-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a windshield wiper de-icer, rear privacy glass, a rearview camera, rear air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a sliding and reclining 60/40-split second-row seat, and a reclining 60/40-split third-row seat. You also get a 6.1-inch touchscreen, five USB ports (three in the front and two in the rear), Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player.

　　Every Highlander also comes with the Toyota Safety Sense bundle that includes automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

　　

Toyota Highlander LE Plus

The LE Plus adds the V6 engine, a height-adjustable power liftgate, a flip-up rear window, foglights, tri-zone automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery and trim, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, a high-resolution 8-inch touchscreen, satellite and HD radio, and a variety of smartphone-connection apps.

　　

Toyota Highlander XLE

Building on the LE Plus' equipment, the XLE adds a sunroof, roof rails, keyless entry and ignition, an upgraded instrument panel, leather upholstery (simulated leather for the third row), heated front seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, second-row window sunshades, a 110-volt power outlet, a navigation system, and Driver Easy Speak, which carries the driver's voice through the rear speakers to distant passengers.

　　

Toyota Highlander SE

The SE is equipped similarly to the XLE but with a sport theme that extends to larger 19-inch wheels, LED running lights, and sportier suspension tuning and styling elements.

　　

Toyota Highlander Limited

The Limited adds LED running lights, different 19-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, a rear cargo cover, heated and ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory settings, second-row captain's chairs, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system to the XLE trim's features.

　　

Toyota Highlander Limited Platinum

The Limited Platinum gains a panoramic sunroof, automatic wipers, a surround-view parking camera system, front parking sensors, Safety Connect emergency communications, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats.

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2019 Highlander Highlights

Trim: LELE PlusXLESELimitedLimited PlatinumLE

　　

Base MSRP	$31,830
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$174/month
Seating	8 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	13.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles