The Toyota Highlander, a staple in the mid-size SUV segment, consistently earns accolades for its reliability, safety, and practicality. It’s a go-to choice for families seeking a dependable vehicle that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures. However, even the most highly-regarded vehicles have their drawbacks. This article delves into the often-overlooked cons of the Toyota Highlander, providing a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision.
Interior and Comfort Concerns
While the Highlander boasts a spacious cabin, certain aspects of its interior and overall comfort can be points of contention for some buyers. These are important considerations for those prioritizing a premium and refined driving experience.
Material Quality and Design
The interior design of the Highlander, while functional, isn’t always praised for its sophistication or use of premium materials, especially in lower trims. Some critics note the prevalence of hard plastics, particularly in areas like the dashboard and door panels. This can detract from the overall sense of luxury and leave the interior feeling less upscale compared to rivals like the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade.
Furthermore, the design itself can be described as conservative or even bland. While some appreciate its straightforward and practical layout, others find it lacking in visual flair and excitement. Those seeking a more modern and stylish interior might find the Highlander’s design underwhelming.
Third-Row Seating and Accessibility
The Highlander’s third row is often cited as a weak point. While it technically offers seating for three, it’s generally considered best suited for children or smaller adults. Legroom in the third row is limited, making it uncomfortable for taller passengers on longer journeys.
Access to the third row can also be cumbersome. The process of folding and sliding the second-row seats can be awkward, especially for those with mobility issues. Some competing models offer easier access and more spacious third-row seating.
Ride Quality and Road Noise
The Highlander’s ride quality is generally comfortable, but it’s not without its flaws. On rough or uneven road surfaces, the suspension can feel a bit stiff, transmitting bumps and vibrations into the cabin. This can be particularly noticeable on models with larger wheels.
Road noise can also be an issue, especially at highway speeds. Wind noise and tire roar can intrude into the cabin, making it difficult to hold conversations or enjoy music. This can be a significant drawback for those who prioritize a quiet and refined driving experience.
Performance and Fuel Economy Trade-offs
The Toyota Highlander offers a capable engine and decent fuel economy, but there are trade-offs to consider in terms of overall performance and driving dynamics. Understanding these limitations is crucial for making an informed purchase.
Engine Performance and Acceleration
While the standard V6 engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, it’s not the most exhilarating or responsive engine in its class. Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Some competitors offer more powerful engine options that provide quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. If performance is a top priority, you might find the Highlander’s engine lacking.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Highlander prioritizes comfort and stability over sporty handling. The steering can feel numb and disconnected, lacking the precision and feedback that some drivers crave. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, but it can feel soft and floaty in corners.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s fun to drive and engaging on winding roads, the Highlander might not be the best choice. Competitors like the Mazda CX-9 offer a more athletic and responsive driving experience.
Fuel Economy Considerations
While the Highlander’s fuel economy is decent for its class, it’s not exceptional. The V6 engine can be thirsty, especially in city driving or when towing. Real-world fuel economy often falls short of the EPA estimates.
The hybrid version of the Highlander offers significantly better fuel economy, but it comes at a higher price point. If fuel efficiency is a major concern, the hybrid might be a worthwhile investment, but it’s important to weigh the cost savings against the initial price premium.
Technology and Features Shortcomings
The Toyota Highlander comes equipped with a range of technology features, but some aspects of its infotainment system and advanced safety features can be less impressive compared to the competition. Evaluating these areas is key to ensuring the Highlander meets your tech expectations.
Infotainment System Usability
The Highlander’s infotainment system, while functional, is often criticized for its dated design and lack of intuitiveness. The graphics can appear pixelated, and the menu structure can be confusing.
Some users also find the touchscreen to be unresponsive at times. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, the overall user experience can feel less polished and refined compared to the infotainment systems offered by some competitors.
Advanced Safety Features Performance
The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety features. However, some of these features don’t always perform as smoothly or reliably as those offered by other manufacturers.
For example, the lane departure warning system can be overly sensitive, and the adaptive cruise control can be slow to react to changes in traffic. While these features provide an added layer of safety, they’re not always the most refined or seamless in their operation.
Lack of Cutting-Edge Features
Compared to some of its rivals, the Highlander can feel a bit behind the curve when it comes to cutting-edge technology features. It lacks some of the more advanced features that are becoming increasingly common in the mid-size SUV segment, such as a fully digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, or a surround-view camera system.
While these features aren’t essential, they can enhance the driving experience and provide added convenience and safety. If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s packed with the latest technology, you might find the Highlander lacking.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Toyota Highlander is generally considered a good value for its reliability and features. However, its price can be a barrier for some buyers, and its value proposition isn’t always as strong as some of its competitors.
Higher Price Point Compared to Rivals
The Highlander often carries a higher price tag than some of its competitors, especially when comparing similarly equipped models. This can make it a less attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
While the Highlander’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value can justify the higher price for some, it’s important to compare it carefully against other options in the market to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Depreciation and Resale Value
While the Highlander is known for its strong resale value, this also means that buying a used Highlander can be more expensive than buying a used competitor. The initial cost savings of buying used might be less significant compared to other brands.
It’s important to factor in the long-term cost of ownership, including depreciation, when evaluating the Highlander’s overall value proposition. While it holds its value well, the initial investment can be higher.
Overall Value for Money
The Highlander offers a good balance of features, reliability, and safety, but its value for money isn’t always as compelling as some of its competitors. Some rivals offer more features, a more luxurious interior, or a more engaging driving experience for a similar or lower price.
It’s essential to carefully consider your priorities and needs when evaluating the Highlander’s value proposition. If reliability is your top concern, the Highlander might be a worthwhile investment. However, if you prioritize other factors, such as interior quality or driving dynamics, you might find better value elsewhere.
Towing Capacity Limitations
While the Toyota Highlander is capable of towing, its towing capacity is not as high as some other SUVs in its class.
Maximum Towing Capacity
The Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. While this is sufficient for towing small trailers, boats, or campers, it may not be enough for those who need to tow heavier loads.
Comparison with Competitors
Several other mid-size SUVs offer higher towing capacities than the Highlander. If towing is a major consideration, it’s important to compare the Highlander’s towing capacity with that of its competitors to ensure it meets your needs.
Impact on Practicality
The Highlander’s towing limitations can impact its practicality for some buyers. If you regularly tow heavy loads, you may need to consider a larger SUV or a truck. It’s crucial to assess your towing needs before purchasing a Highlander to avoid disappointment.
Conclusion
The Toyota Highlander is undoubtedly a popular and well-regarded mid-size SUV. However, it’s essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks before making a purchase. From interior material quality and third-row seating to engine performance and technology features, the Highlander has its limitations. By carefully considering these cons and comparing them against your individual needs and priorities, you can make an informed decision and determine whether the Highlander is truly the right vehicle for you. Remember to test drive the Highlander and other competing models to get a feel for their strengths and weaknesses before making a final decision.
What are some of the most common complaints about the Toyota Highlander’s ride quality?
The Toyota Highlander, while generally comfortable, has been criticized for its ride quality, particularly on rougher roads. Some owners report feeling more bumps and imperfections compared to competitors. This can be attributed to the suspension tuning, which prioritizes handling and stability over outright plushness, as well as the tire choices that come standard on certain trim levels.
Furthermore, the Highlander’s ride can sometimes feel busy, meaning there’s a lot of small vibrations and movements transmitted into the cabin. This can become fatiguing on longer drives, especially for passengers in the rear seats. While not a deal-breaker for everyone, it’s a factor potential buyers should consider, especially if they frequently encounter uneven road surfaces.
Is the Toyota Highlander’s third-row seating comfortable and spacious enough for adults?
The Toyota Highlander’s third-row seating is often cited as a weakness compared to other three-row SUVs. While it can accommodate children relatively comfortably, adults might find the legroom and headroom to be limited, particularly on longer journeys. The low seat cushion also contributes to a less-than-ideal seating position for taller individuals.
Accessing the third row can also be a challenge, especially for those with mobility issues. The second-row seats don’t slide forward as easily as some competitors, making it a bit awkward to climb into the rearmost seats. For families who regularly need to utilize the third row for adults, other SUVs with more spacious and accessible third-row seating might be a better choice.
What are some reported issues with the Toyota Highlander’s infotainment system?
While the Toyota Highlander’s infotainment system has seen improvements in recent years, some users still find it lacking compared to competing systems. Common complaints include a less intuitive user interface, sluggish response times, and a dated appearance, particularly in older models. Some find it less visually appealing and more complicated to navigate than other systems.
Furthermore, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on most Highlanders, the integration isn’t always seamless. Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues and software glitches. The base system also lacks some of the more advanced features found in higher trim levels or competitor vehicles, such as a larger screen or enhanced navigation capabilities.
Are there any commonly reported reliability problems with the Toyota Highlander, despite its reputation for dependability?
While the Toyota Highlander generally boasts strong reliability, it’s not immune to potential issues. Some owners have reported problems with the transmission, including occasional rough shifting or hesitation. These issues appear to be more prevalent in older models with higher mileage.
Other potential problems include issues with the hybrid system in hybrid Highlander models, such as battery degradation or malfunctioning components. While these problems are not widespread, they are something to be aware of, especially when considering a used hybrid Highlander. Regular maintenance and adherence to recommended service intervals can help mitigate the risk of these issues.
How does the Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy compare to other SUVs in its class, and are there any real-world mileage discrepancies?
The Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy is generally competitive within its class, especially the hybrid models. However, some owners report that their real-world mileage falls short of the EPA estimates. This can be attributed to various factors, including driving style, road conditions, and the use of accessories like air conditioning.
Furthermore, the non-hybrid Highlander’s fuel economy can suffer significantly in city driving. Frequent stop-and-go traffic can negatively impact fuel consumption. While the hybrid model offers superior fuel economy in urban environments, the non-hybrid version might be less efficient than some competitors in certain driving conditions.
What are some potential drawbacks of the Toyota Highlander’s exterior styling and design?
While subjective, some find the Toyota Highlander’s exterior styling to be somewhat bland or uninspired compared to more aggressively styled SUVs in its class. Its design is often described as conservative and lacking the visual flair of some competitors, which can be a drawback for those seeking a more eye-catching vehicle.
The Highlander’s design also prioritizes practicality over aesthetics in certain areas. For example, the large rear window and boxy shape contribute to cargo space but might not be as visually appealing as more streamlined designs. Ultimately, whether the Highlander’s styling is a drawback depends on individual preferences.
How does the Toyota Highlander’s cargo space compare to other SUVs in its class, especially with the third row in use?
The Toyota Highlander’s cargo space is decent, but it’s not class-leading, particularly when the third row is in use. With all three rows of seats up, the cargo area is relatively small, making it challenging to accommodate luggage or groceries for a full load of passengers. This can be a significant limitation for families on long trips.
Folding down the third-row seats significantly increases cargo space, making it more competitive with other SUVs in its class. However, even with the third row folded, some competitors offer more overall cargo volume. For those who frequently need to haul large items, other SUVs with more generous cargo capacity might be a better option.