2003 TOYOTA Highlander

SAVE

PRICE ALERT

$6,995
$846
above average
177,466 Miles
7,232
Miles below average

Vehicle Details

Mileage: 177466
Color: Gold
Body Style: SUV
Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
Engine Type: 220 hp 3L V6
Drive Train: 4WD
Fuel: Gasoline
Location: Norfolk, VA
Get EPICVIN vehicle history report

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Recalls & Defects

VIN JTEHF21A130116344 may have been recalled. Check full report for more information

WHEELS

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FIVE FACTORY ALLOY WHEELS (MODEL 6934 AND 6936), WITH FACTORY LLAT, AND WITH PORT INSTALLED WR4, FOUR ALLOY WHEEL UPGRADE PROCESSED AT THE JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA PORT AND DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA, WHEN THE VEHICLES WERE PROCESSED AT THE PORT, AN ALLOY TIRE/WHEEL UPGRADE WAS INSTALLED. THE UPGRADE INCLUDED 4 ALLOY WHEELS. THE ORIGINAL SPARE TIRE/ALLOY WHEEL WAS NOT CHANGED. THE SPARE TIRE REQUIRES THE USE OF A DIFFERENT STYLE OF WHEEL NUT TO ATTACH IT TO THE VEHICLE.



Vehicle Rating & Owner Reviews

Overall Rating
4.7
  Based on 309 reviews

Awesome suv

5
David on 10/04/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: Safety Rating: Technology Rating: Value Rating:

Went looking for a new one and ran across this flawless 2003. What gem. Love it

Dependable, flexiblity

5
Linda Degelmann on 09/28/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

No concerns

Best Car Ever Owned

5
Charlie on 05/05/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: Safety Rating: Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

Reliable

Through snow & ice this big, safe SUV is nice.

4
Richard Haley on 11/22/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 4

This is a very reliable and affordable SUV. Its a Toyota so it will run forever if you change the oil and talk to it nice.

Huge disappointment

4
ejet on 09/01/2014

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3 Safety Rating: Technology Rating: Value Rating:

We bought this SUV new in 2002. We bought it because we have a 1998 Corolla that's been a very reliable car. But not the Highlander. At just under 200,000 k the old leaky head gasket then the stripped head bolt got us. Last year we thought we would keep the Toyota for a few more years so we put money into the few body chips. Bought new tires, winter and summer and put in a new wind shield in the spring. Now we had an engine that was toast. Our local Toyota dealer found us a used motor from another Toyota and installed it. They say it only has 70,000 k but who knows. So we spent $7600.00 so far. As of January 2016 it's still running great. there hasn't been any new surprises.

Disappointed

2.4
herbertspoof on 05/10/2012

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Purchased used 5 years ago with 86,000. Didn't flinch at the mileage due to Toyota's reputation for reliability; car drove well, at first. Sold at 109,000 due to expensive repair and maintainence costs including: All 4 wheel bearings, $500 a pop. Breaks completely replaced, some more than once. $2,000 spent on breaks in just 2 years. Evaporator sensor went bad; $400 just for the part. Muffler developed a small hole; $400 for a new one. Straw that broke the camel's back: drive shaft developed a wobble and needed complete replacement $1,200. Cut my losses and unloaded the hunk of junk. Other car was a 20 year old Subaru Legacy that had fewer problems and was cheaper to maintain.

New Owner-Wierd Issues

4.8
mjc333 on 11/09/2011

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I just purchased the Toyota Highlander 2003 and upon purchasing the vehicle I was very happy. The check engine light came on shortly after purchase and apparently the cause is a bad "ECM" board in the SUV. I am not sure if this is common but I have experienced this problem. I love the vehicle otherwise and plan on driving it for a while. Currently at 82K hope it lasts to 200K without major repairs.

Blown Head Gasket Engine 4cyl Bad News

3.4
toml1958 on 11/02/2011

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Beware of the dreaded code stating leakage in exhaust system, for this is an idication of the head gasket going and leaking coolant. Upon further review it is found thatrear head bolts are stripped due to excessive heat most like caused by foam insulator pad between plastic intake manifold and engine. Some say engine is toast, but the fix rec. is a time sert insert kit (approx $500 helicoil) with drill guide. Mine is to be currently repaired at about a total cost of $2,900.00 as long as the helicoil kit holds the head bolt torque, we will see? It is a design flaw in my opinion as it seems to be a regular issue with the four cylinder Highlanders approx.2001-2005? Failure was at 160,000 mi.

Good Car

4
graphical87 on 09/22/2011

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I've had my Toyota highlander for about 5 months now. When I first got it it had almost 216,000 miles. It's a great SUV and pretty reliable with decent gas mileage. At about 218,000 miles the temperature gauge started going up , almost to red. It would go up and then down to normal and repeat. Turned out I blew a head gasket. While it was at the shop being repaired they found that the head bolts were stripped which is a known problem with this year ,make and type of engine my highlander has. Ended up paying $3,700 to get fixed. Despite the major repair I haven't had any other problems with it. I'm at 222,000 miles and it runs great. I'm hoping on making it to 300,000 + miles.

High Mileage pitfalls

3.6
shaggs on 04/21/2011

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this SUV new in 2003 and have it maintined regularly at the dealer. I now have 216,000 km on it and am starting to experience some high mileage wear items that have become prohibatively expensive. The oil cooler developed a leak and cost $1,000.00 to replace. The rear hanger bearing on the drive shaft (the shaft that connects the front transfer case with the rear) is noisy. For a worn bearing or universal joint the whole drive shaft must be replaced at a cost of $1,700.00 just for the part. I am looking for a good used one but am finding it impossible. There are no after market shafts, only ones available from the dealer. Highlanders will last many years, but at what cost!!!

2003 highlander Engine Failure 147,000 miles Coolant leak

3.1
anderswl on 04/16/2011

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Just like others I have read on this site, my 2003 run hot and after having it towed for service and repair I was told the engine needs to be replaced. The cost for the re-built engine was $6,400 - $8,500 depending on who you called. Very disappointed in the built strong organization I put so much trust in.

Stripped Head-Bolts

3
lsthkr on 01/29/2011

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Never had a problem with this vehicle until Jan 25 2011 as I was driving across town. Coolant leak brought me to a dead stop. I discovered a common problem with this engine (2.4L 4cyl). Just Google Highlander stripped head-bolts to see how many of these engines are dying and how expensive the fix is. Mine had only 126,000 miles on it. I am the original owner. The dealer will not help with repair costs even though this is a manufacturing and or design issue.

Mechanically reliable, no frills vehicle.

3.1
j_ash on 12/17/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my '03 about two years ago with about 70k miles. I had to replace the HVAC blower motor (approx $250) because of an annoying rattle. Aside from that issue I've had no other machanical problems at 115k. I will say that the front seat is uncomfortable and is ill suited to long drives. The cabin materials in general are cheaper than other cars I've owned in the past. The carpet is super thin and the leather is of substandard quality in my opinion. A good car if you dont care about the ugly, cheap interior.nion. Not a bad car if you don't care about the interior.

Long Hauls

4.6
Jim on 10/12/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Only one problem with vehicle: the drivers bench seat is too short and causes extreme leg pain on an extended trip. I frequently drive for 10 and 12 hour stretches, and the bench does not provide enough support for me. I am 6 ft. tall, so I cannot imagine how a taller person fairs in this vehicle. Overall, the car has been trouble free.

Former Toyota...stripped head bolts

4.4
bizmin on 10/06/2010

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

2003 Toyota Highlander 2.4 L 4-cylinder engine, 108,000 miles, perfect service, until it developed coolant leak on the back side of the top of the engine, adjacent to an insulator pad at the back of the engine block. The back 3 head bolts were completely stripped, allowing coolant to leak into the engine. Toyota dealer says the short block or entire engine must be replaced, with no other option [$5200- $7400+.] Based on the frequency of identical engine failures, faulty factory assembly and/or design assures eventual failure of the engine. 25-year Toyota fan, probably lost forever.

Buyer beware

2.5
bk on 07/21/2010

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

We purchased this car new and kept it dealer maintained for 7 years. I found it to be quite a reliable vehicle until recently. At 118,000 miles it developed a coolant leak. It was ultimately found to be due to stripped out threads in the engine block (i.e. the car needed a new engine ~ $7500.00). After discovering that I was not the only one to experience this problem (check online Toyota forums), I notified Toyota. The Rep stated, "Your engine may be defective, but we cannot help you because you are out of warranty." Beware of the 4 cylinder engine in the 03 Highlander! A dealer maintained vehicle is worthless, and Toyota has lost a customer. And so it goes.

Best of the best

4.9
laurag on 06/16/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this used for a new sales position. I call it my office on wheels. I'm have over 140,000 miles on it and have had no repairs. Other than the oil and tires, it's been problem free. Runs and drives like brand new.

Great SUV

4.9
David on 05/18/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great SUV! I am getting 24-26 mpg 70/30 hwy/city. I got the dreaded P0420/P0430 check engine light. Ran several tanks of the good gas with fuel system cleaner. Cleared codes and everything is fine now. Runs better too! Love the economy with all the space and 4 cylinder has plenty of pep for me. I have been looking for an SUV with plenty of room and economy. Fun to drive and rides nice too!

Almost Perfect

5
John Adams on 05/09/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am a small business owner and was using an Odyssey for hauling and an Accord for personal running. Been looking for something doing both. Finally decided to buy a 4 cylinder Highlander with 118,000 miles. And I have never been so happy in my life on making a car buying choice like this one. Great gas mileage, can do the loading as good as in my Odyssey. Great Car like smooth ride, and great gas mileage. Yes, being a 4 cylinder it does not have that V6 feel but who cares, it has good enough power to hold its own. Recommended 200% to all those who need good gas mileage, need bigger space, wanna drive SUV like looks and don't care if the vehicle does not make 0-60 miles in 6 seconds.

HL in Russia

4.8
Max on 04/18/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very good car for cold climate. Very smooth ride on bumpy roads in Russia. Got it at 72K miles and run 50k more within 30 months. No problems with the car so far.

Rock Solid

4.9
Mike D on 10/24/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 4th Toyota (1st Highlander), after 1 Corolla & 2 Camry's prior. All stellar. I am not an impulsive buyer and not made out of money, so researched this purchase thoroughly. With Toyota's build quality, could not see spending big $ on a new one, or even a 3-year-old off lease model. Have only owned for about a month. Car has 52K miles & is ROCK SOLID, much as I had suspected it would be. At 7 years old, it drives like it's brand new. Will go to 200K miles no doubt.

Vanilla

3.3
DV on 08/20/2008

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned the Highlander for five years now and have never gotten used to the exterior styling. It's about as vanilla (plain) as they come. The interior is well done, however, and the car provides a very comfortable ride, although it's a bit noisy at highway speed. Reliability and quality are good - just as one might expect from Toyota. However, if you're looking for good styling and a powerful, fun car to drive this is not it - nor is any Toyota for that matter. The car lacks style and horsepower and has no towing capacity. Most importantly, it lacks rear interior space and can only carry four to five adults. (Only small children can fit in the optional rear seat.)

Neat truck

4.9
jake65 on 07/18/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The truck was purchased brand new in 2003. So far it has 97,000 miles and runs like it's brand new. Some of the problems I can think of is the paint scratches very easily. And the tires wear out a little sooner than expected. Other than that it is very comfortable and pretty quiet inside. It's also quite powerful for its size and gas mileage. It's a great truck and I plan to drive it for a long time.

The best car I have ever owned

4.9
jane on 04/30/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If this car died today it would owe me absolutely nothing. I have never had it back to the dealer for anything but routine maintenance. In fact at 111,000 miles I just took it in for a brake job and was told that they could save the rotors. These are the original brakes!!! Bet you wouldn't get that on an American car. Love this vehicle. Hope it lasts like the ones on the TV ads for at least 300,000 miles. I started driving in 1966 and have had many cars but this one is by far the best I have ever owned.

Great SUV

4.9
Vlad on 02/08/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car two months ago. Great SUV. Has a lot of leg room for the driver (I am 6'3), has plenty of room in the bask seat. Lots of storage. Great in snow (I live in Cleveland). Great gas mileage for SUV. I recommend the 6 cylinder as the 4 cylinder is somewhat underpowered (driven the 4 cylinder also) and not much better fuel economy.

Very satisfied owner

4.9
Arizona Bob on 01/30/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Most of my driving is long distant and here in AZ when the temp. is over 100 degrees the car is great and the AC does a good job. The average speed here is between 75 and eighty and I have had no problems overheating. My goal is to reach 300000 miles. I am now at 60000 and everything is original but the tires.

2003 Highlander (2.4L 4A)

4.4
Rich on 11/02/2007

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our Highlander has been a very reliable vehicle. It's very well built and has lots of room. I'm always amazed how much I can stuff into it! The handling and traction has improved considerably after replacing the cheap OEM Goodyear Integritys with Michelin LTXs. The 4 cyl isn't exactly a tire-burner but it consistently gets upper 20s to lower 30s mileage on the highway. We tow a two PWC trailer at just over 2000 lbs. and pulls it nicely at speeds up to 60 mph. Over that and the engine has to work quite hard. Needless to say the mileage drops to the low teens. Overall, I'm hard pressed to find something as roomy and versatile as our Highlander on the market today!

My Favorite Car

4.5
Ancistrus on 08/26/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned/co-owned 9 cars. This one is my favorite. No problems at all in 57,000 miles.

My mechanic sold me

4.4
John on 08/16/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Ease of parking, good on the interstate and comfortable seating for four adults are some of the reasons we purchased this high end Highlander. But the biggest reason was my trusted mechanic recommended the Highlander to my wife. We haven't been disappointed. Smooth ride and able to negotiate in tight parking spots are two more benefits we were expecting from an SUV.

I am VERY pleased with my '03

4.9
dan on 07/29/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We did a lot of SUV shopping. We are used to driving older Explorers and lost a little bit of power, but the sacrifice of power for the SUPER increase in mileage is well worth it. Overall I have never been happier with an auto purchase.

Rock Solid

4.8
J-Texas on 05/05/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Drives like a car more than an SUV, but it's attractive and rock solid. Having it to do all over again, I would have upgraded to leather.

Thumbs Up!!

4.9
Tony on 04/11/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just purchased the 03 Highlander about a month ago and it is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned (owning brand new 00' Grand Am and 03' Silverado prior). It had about 44,000 miles on the odometer and it still drives like new. We test drove an 02 Rendezvous with only 20,000 miles and still drove off with this vehicle. It is very quiet even on the windiest days. The gas mileage is consistently reading around 18 to 20 mpg, which for a midsize is pretty impressive. We bought this because we needed a familly vehicle with my wife delivering our first born a week later, and am totaly secure driving my family around in the Highlander.

We like our Highlander

4.5
DON on 12/07/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We like our Highlander. Our previous vehicle was a 4-Runner. The Highlander has a much more comfortable ride, and gets much better gas mileage. I can't tell that we lost any space either.... it seems we can haul just as much stuff as we did in the 4- Runner. About the only thing I don't like about the vehicle is the exterior styling.... very boring.

Love My Highlander

4.4
auntiejenn on 10/18/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I'm very happy with this vehicle. I've taken it on several long (1500 mile) trips and it is as comfortable to drive & ride in as a good quality car. The only complaints I have about it are: (1) the lifter (fuel injector) noise -- and even that is minor. With no radio on, sitting still, you can hear the f.i. system working, but while driving, or with radio on normal volume, you cannot. (2) the paint on the hood chips very easily from normal road wear. I would buy it again ... zero mechanical issues, easy to drive, comfy. Holds value well.

Great Value

4.5
A. Palermo on 04/03/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drive this car everywhere as you can tell by the mileage, 75000 in 3 years. I wanted something comfortable for all passengers and this fit the bill and even after all the miles, it still rides comfortably. I also wanted an SUV that I could fit large items in the back and the highlander has the size I need. One of the problems with all the fancy SUVs on the market is that by paying $30000 or more you hate to get it dirty and use it for more then driving around town. Not the Highlander. It's priced right and I don't mind getting it dirty!

Hunter

4.1
Smokey on 02/28/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 5

Steering is very stiff at highway speeds causing the feeling that it has locked up, and trying to make a minor adjustment always results in an oversteer or over correction situation. The result is a weaving left to right as you travel the straight-aways. There is no room for any extra stuff in the front for the driver or passenger. Difficult to get the EPA rating of 24 Hghy.

Great SUV for very decent price

4.1
Barbara on 02/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Love this car. Leased it and will purchase at lease end. Very comfortable and handles well. Feels like a car but much better.

30 MONTHS OF RELIABILITY & COMFORT

5
ED GRECO on 02/12/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A most reliable, ergonomically designed, just plain comfortable car. It's built on the Camry chassis--so the comfort. The interior design is superb with intuitive buttons and controls. We will trade up to a 2006 since financing is attractive.

Best SUV

5
Diondra on 12/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has the most room, the rear seats fold down FLAT, for animals, and it by far has the BEST, smoothest ride of any SUV on the market. Plus you get all the wonderful Toyota dependability to go with it!!

Toyota doesn't disappoint.

4.8
Brklyndriver on 11/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first SUV. Before it, I owned a 2000 nissan quest. I'm trully in love with this vehicle. The suspension is so soft when going over the pothole filled roads of New York streets. It has a decent amount of power and more trunk space then I can ask for. After I let some friends drive it they fell in love with it as well and bought their own. Now there's 3 of us :)

Convinced

4.4
DLD/IA on 10/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

A test drive convinced me. This vehicle does everything, very powerfully and very comfortably. FWD gets me through the Iowa snowstorms without the expense of 4WD. It is economical and not overly huge-easy to manuever and park. It has the best of the midsize car and the suv combined.

Very good vehicle

4.4
Rick on 09/10/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is not very exiting to drive but a very good all around vehicle. It has a smooth ride and is fairly quiet. We average 21-23 MPG. It has been rock solid without a single problem in 47K miles. I agree with the person who wrote in about the wind noise with the back windows down. It really hurts my ears. There is plenty of room for passengers, but at the sacrifice of a little more cargo room. I like that you can step right into it without stepping up or dropping down. Drove it from CT to FL and I wish the front seat was a little more comfortable. Once complaint is that it seems to require constant corrections to keep driving straight on the highway (alignment is fine).

Love It!

4.5
J Kelley on 09/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove a Lexus RX300 previously (company car) but was unwilling to pay the Lexus price when it came time to buy. This car is built on the same platform. It rides and handles like a car, not a truck. The only thing missing when compared to the Lexus is the "luxury" look of the interior. I have only two minor complaints with the vehicle: 1. the lifters (fuel injectors) make noise which is not noticeable when driving/idling unless it is completely quiet in the car (no talking, music, etc.) It is not noticeable to most people but was not present til after break-in period; 2. the paint on bumper & hood chips easily from normal road dirt.

AWESOME CAR

4.6
Toyotarawesome on 08/26/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow. its been 3 years now and the Highlander is purely flawless. Amazing engineering and design. It's amazing how reliable this car has been. The car is very well designted and cup holders galore! The only thing I would want on my Highlander is a navigation system, which they have for the 2005 model year now. :) I love Toyota!

Best car I have ever had

4.9
Michelle Earnest on 07/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have put 60,000 miles on my Highlander in 2 years. It is reliable, fun to drive, comfortable and roomy. The DVD player is great for the kids and the JVC stereo system is awesome. The heated seats are a nice upgrade. Mileage is a solid 22mpg. Air conditioning is a big improvement over my previous Dodge minivan - cools down quickly and maintains temp well. I would buy another one without question!

Gotta luv it

4.9
ML on 07/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

SUV room with a great car ride (did not want a truck ride like the Honda Pilot. Well built, quiet, V6 power and room for a tall (6'3) guy to spare. Like the easy rear fold down seats for cargo (unlike my old Chrysler mini (yuk)). Sits high enough for great visibility but also easy to get into for the shorter person (wife). We end up taking this on long trips rather than our luxury Avalon. Just more comfortable and versatile. Best car owned in 20 years! Would get another in a heart beat.

Capable Cruiser

4.6
shendee on 07/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We needed car-like ride and handling and the Highlander delivers. Plenty of room, especially front-seat footroom, plus a noise-free ride. Outstanding dependability and top-notch build quality make an excellent value. The transmission is especially smooth and the standard audio features user-friendly knobs and big, lighted buttons. The 220-hp V-6 is smooth and powerful enough. Mileage is as advertised, 23 mpg when driven sensibly. The 60-40 split rear seat easily folds flat creating 81 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The quality of interior materials is good, although the dash is hard, grained plastic and the plush ivory cloth is not child-frieldly. Visibility and handling are strengths

Rock solid

4.5
Jer on 05/28/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

62,000 miles and no problems other than a loose sun visor. 22+ MPG all around, quiet and smooth ride, room for lots of stuff.

My first Toyota was a great choice!

5
TchrCochrane on 05/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I wasn't sure about getting an SUV, but this one was so comfortable. I describe it like this: it's like a car and a van all rolled up into one! I really enjoy driving it. My two children love riding in a more spacious area and really enjoy watching videos on the Dvd player. Glad I got it!

Great Little Truck

4.9
Nick on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I currently have 68k miles. No problems at all. I have only changed the oil and tires. I am on my second set of tires. Factory tires where Goodyears are very soft. I get around 22-25 hwy mileage. Would buy another one in a minute. Waiting for the redo in '06. Plenty of space, drove to the Keys last year with family, fully loaded, got over 23 mpg. Would get the 4WD next time. ECT snow switch has gotten me out of some tough spots.

GREAT CAR!

4.9
Huey on 01/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a good investment this suv was. Gas mileage is unbelievable for an suv. The leather is so soft and comfortable. It handles impeciably, nice and tight on corners, super smooth over bumps, and little to no noise intrusion. The acceleration is what you would expect in a sports car, the Highlander is quick, and agile. Its an suv, but with out all the downsides of an suv ( like: gas gussler, big and hard to manuver, not comfortbale, etc) Has a great resale value,......well duh, its a Toyota! (american car companies need to get on the trolley, forgien cars are just outstanding)

Highlander

4.8
John Gallagher on 12/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wonderful vehicle. Typical Toyota quality. It is a pleasure to drive and travels as smooth as silk. Nice acceleration and plenty of power.

Buy the V6

3.9
Robcowling on 09/04/2004

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought the 4 cylinder for my wife, she is ok with it, but I can not stand to drive it. We thought we would get better gas mileage out of the 4 cylinder but that has not been the case. We get 19 mpg every time, sometimes less. On a recent trip, we got 22, no where near the advertised 22- 27 mpg. I have talked to those who have the 6 cylinder and they are getting the same or better gas mileage. So it makes since to buy the V6 and have 80-90 more horsepower while getting the same gas mileage.

Best Car I have ever had

5
Michelle E. on 08/28/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my Highlander! I put 30,000 miles on it in one year and never had the first problem. It is comfortable, smooth and fun to drive. Handles beautifully in Virginia winters, even without 4 wheel drive. The heated seats are great on a cold morning and the DVD player has saved my sanity on several trips. I would buy another one in a heart beat.

Versatile vehicle

4.9
Phil Conners on 08/19/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far it's been great...easy to drive, spacious, nicely designed.

Highlander

4.9
jlb3 on 07/23/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We traded in our Honda CRV for a Highlander in June 2003. This car has just been wonderful. The ride is smooth, unlike that of the other SUVs we tried. It's very quiet, so quiet it's hard to know if the car is on at times. A great choice if you take long trips. Best of all our auto insurance was surprisingly low, because of all the safety features. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone considering it. I'm a commuter and everyone that rides with me comments on what a nice car it is and always asks what type is it!

Highlander - Comfort of a Cloud

4.9
Gracedpoet on 07/12/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Toyota Highlander is a Joy to drive, completely free of mechanical problems, and most importantly very comfortable, especially for those of us with bad backs.

Good experience with 1st SUV

4.9
Gore on 06/03/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I do have no complains over this 2003 Highlander. It has a smooth ride live a sedan with a feeling of security.

Perfect SUV

4.9
uwp74 on 05/28/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Absolutely incredible in the snow - better than my 4WD truck. So solid, so well built. A real marvel of workmanship.

Excellent Choice

5
AnonymousGA on 05/17/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been an awesome car. It has not gone in the shop once since I have had it. It is extremely comfortable and the back seat area is very spacious. It drives like a dream. It gets great gas mileage for being an SUV.

MY Highlander

4.5
Steve MY on 04/24/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Before I bought this vehicle, I had never owned an SUV AND I was a lifelong Chevy man. When the boss (my wife) decided it was time for me to buy a SUV, I decided to test drive EVERYTHING in the price range we were looking for ($20,000-$30,000). Ikept leaning towards the Trail Blazer (or the Explorer, Grand Cherokee, etc). However, over a period of several months, I had to admit to myself that the Highlander was (in my opinion) consistently 1st or 2nd in every category I could think of. As a result I now find myself driving everywhere. Try it....you'll like it!

Still love this car

4.9
ontrack on 03/26/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After almost a year of driving my Highlander, I still love it. After driving vans for many years I wanted a smaller vehicle but just couldn't get comfortable in a regular sedan. The Highlander is perfect for me. It drives like a car but functions like a small van. The gas mileage is great. I will keep it for a long, long time.

An excellent, well rounded player

4.6
LTJ on 03/20/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

You will definetley feel like you are riding in a car or lets say a Camry. There are good space accomodations and I like the hidden bins in the cargo area. The V6 engine is excellent although could use more power but take off is excellent. Provides peppy, and fun power which makes you want to rev it high. The ride is excellent and comfortable. Radio sounds excellent.

'03 Highlander

5
Palmer2345356 on 03/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Highlander is okay. Seats feel kind of hard, and sometimes you can hear the engine. Drive is comfortable though, and, it is a Toyota so you know your gas mileage is up there. I would have rather gotten a Jeep Grand Cherokee, or a Chevrolet Tahoe, but this was the way that the majority of the family wanted to go.

Toyotarrific

4.9
toyotasareawesome on 03/01/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this suv over a year ago and haven't had a problem with it yet. Just add gas and go - with regular maintenance of course. It's by far the best vehicle I have owned. Smooth as can be, plenty of room, and extremely reliable.

I love my Toyota

4.8
Cecelia on 02/28/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned alot of vehicles over the years as I usually upgrade every two years.I have never had a vehicle that I have enjoyed driving as much as this one. I love the way it handles especially in the snow. I live where we get an average of 120 inches of snow a year. I have had no problem with this vehicle on the snow or wet roads.

My 2003 Highlander

4.8
Mr Highlander on 02/27/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Riding in the front is great, comfortable, back seat is somewhat less. The backseat is firm and the ride is a bit stiff jarring. Handling is great. The side mirrors are a real value, big, Braking is good, but it takes time to get used to the 4 wheel disk brakes feel.

great overall crossover

5
bishop05 on 02/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this SUV, it has power to spare and spacious front and rear seating. It also handels great in deep snow and in rain

Loved My Highlander

4.5
LoveToyotas on 01/30/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We purchased the Highlander right before a big snowstorm last year and it immediately proved it's worth. Though our street went unplowed for almost a week, we were out driving every day. It handled great! We recently sold the Highlander because with another baby on the way, we decided to move into the realm of minivans and got an '04 Sienna. But we were very pleased with the resale value on the Highlander, and would have been happy to keep it if we could afford payments on two new cars.

Drives like a dream!

5
Rob Gillespie on 01/22/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Powerful, smooth, quiet...if you are looking for comfortable city driving, this SUV will not disappoint you! I can't comment on off-road use because I don't do that. This is not considered a "luxury" SUV like the Land Rover, but gosh, what else could you want? If you buy the Limited model you already have almost every feature you can think of. This is the best car I've ever owned! I would definitely buy another one.

vehicle owner

4.8
ceo on 01/20/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This SUV is a Joy to drive. Confort, quality, reliability and best of all a toyota badge on a Lexus. Eat yout heart out Ford, Crysler. A happy owner.

High Lander

5
Leader on 01/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Both it with 12,500 miles. Could not be more happy. Quality, interior room, drives like a car, very smooth. It is really a solid vehicle. It inspires reliability bumper to bumper. My is dark blue (navy blue) and brings sun roof & Privacy Glass giving the appearance of semi luxury and cool fresh look to fit everywhere I go.

My first SUV

4.9
Gene B. on 01/07/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We just stumbled upon the Highlander at the Cleveland car show on March 7th. We weren't looking for anything like it. It represents everything I said I'd never buy: An SUV, leather, full power. I picked it up on March 17th. I have absolutely no complaints so far. My wife, who is NOT a car person, LOVES it.

great car

4.5
sc23 on 01/05/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

excellent drive and handling. one design flaw is high pithced noise the moon roof makes when open which is alleviated when the front passenger windows are slightly opened.

Nice to look at, boring to drive

3.8
t2miller on 12/30/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The quality of the vehicle itself is excellent, but the Toyota side step bars have rusted and been replaced 2 times already. Beware of dealerships trying to sell you 'extra' services also. During servicing (20k miles) it was 'recommended' that coolant be flushed(insisting it was not 'long- life' coolant), perform a brake service AND balance. I declined all of these services and for good reason - I will contact Toyota to express my concerns that a $60 service would have topped $300 after taxes. So why buy a Toyota for reliablity and longetivity if you are paying the cost? Consider Honda if you wish to have the complete 'Japanese' experience.

Great Car

4.8
tonto on 12/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best Car ever great car perfect!!!

Great SUV

4.9
Lou M on 12/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Terrific...Definetely a must buy.

Love this car

4.8
ontrack on 12/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned many vehicles but the Highlander is by far my favorite. It is easy and fun to drive and very comfortable. The back door makes loading easy and the back seats fold without a problem. For a smallish car it has plenty of room. I transported a sofa home in it! The engine is quiet and even with the 4 cylinder engine there is plenty of power. Cruise control is excellent and easy to use. I really love this car.

Brakes are too soft

3.3
silverbox on 12/22/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I am still trying to figure out why the brakes are so soft... This is not an offroad vehicle that needs this type of feature. Am I the only one with this problem b/c the dealer will hear about this. I do feel safe stopping at a light with the possibility that i may hit the car in front unless i stop much further back than a reasonable distance...

HIGHLANDER IS FUN

5
CRumRI on 12/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had 2 Avalons - traded one for a Chrysler Town/Country and that was the most expensive piece of junk we ever bought. Toyota quality far superior. Instrument panels, center console, etc. all good placement. Really a fun vehicle with PLENTY of power, GREAT gas mileage for a SUV and easy load/unloading.

Great SUV

5
theparsons on 12/11/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove my son-in-laws 300RX Lexus for 6 months. That was a mistake. I was out of the USA for 18 months and often reviewed SUV's on the internet. Within 24 hours of returning to my home I was driving a 2003 Highlander. It's a great vehicle, solid, fun to drive and comfortable. Gas mileage as been 22 mpg in city.

I'm Impressed!

4.8
jcg4realcars on 12/10/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We are very happy with our Highlander. It has met all my expectations and more. We wanted a SUV, but not a "Big Brother" type as we are not "Bubba's". My wife has had back surgery, so it is not easy for her to get in or out of the standard SUV. This one does! Try It! The interior comfort is high on our list. It's quiet and roomy! Way to go Toyota!

A Good Choice

4.9
Jochebed on 12/10/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my Toyota Higlander after test driving the Honda CRV, the Toyota RAV 4, the Mazda Tribute, and the Toyota Matrix. The Highlander had car like handling, ample cargo space, and excellent gas mileage. I opted for the 4 cylinder to take advantage of the excellent gas mileage it offered. While the car is not overly peppy, it is very adequate for my needs. Performance fans should opt for the 6 cylinder. I also opted for the running boards, which are lighted and leather seats, which I love. I've had this car for 10 months now and the more I drive it, the better I like it!

Toyota Highland

4.9
toyota devotee on 12/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love this car...very reliable, comfortable and like sitting higher on the highway. Fuel economy okay....alot better than friend's V6 Ford Explorer.....20.8 mpg vs. 17.8.

lovin it

5
ashleyc on 12/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My parents bought me this car before I went to college. We wanted a car that i would be safe traveling long distances in, something that wasn't too bulky, and something that i could still fit all of my stuff in. The highlander was perfect. Other cars I considered were Nissan Altima, Nissan Xterra, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Saturn Vue. But, the highlander satisfied everything that we wanted.

Love my Highlander

4.9
rosiem on 11/29/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my Highlander, the body reminds me more of a van than an SUV and that is the only thing I don't care for. But, there is really nothing I would change about my car. I like that there are plenty of drink holders in the car so you don't have to worry about anyone dropping their drinks. It is very easy to keep clean, no hard areas that you can't reach.

Love My Highlander

5
naturalpsych on 11/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had the car about a year, no problems whatsoever. Feels very luxurious.

2003 Highlander

5
RTregle on 11/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The highlander is a wonderful mid size, car based SUV. It is a dream to drive with a wonderful ride/suspension. Praise Toyota for producing this model. Praise Lexus for leading the way with the RX300 from which so much was taken from.

fair enough

3.8
newbuy on 11/15/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

the exterior looks great but the braking distance and sound insulation could be better.

toy hl rules

4.9
momo gin on 11/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

was shopping for honda element and crv, then went to toyota to see rav 4 (have 97 rav 4) saw drove 93 close out highlander limited fully loaded and took it out for test drive with the wifey. oh oh, one of those had to buy deals with 1000 rebate and 100 over msrp 700 miles in and nothing but praise for the perfect car/suv mix started with the rav4 improved with the max power of six cyl 3.0l in the highlander. power on demand, high vision, seat heaters, six speak jbl cass/cd, leather and moonroof, with toyota reliability. we are living in a good time my friends.

I LOVE my Highlander!

4.9
Love on 11/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I needed a car I can step UP into...this was a great answer to what I needed. I was done with mini vans! This is fun to drive, has great mileage, and is just a great looking cars! Thanks

A Best Buy

4.6
pakkadk on 10/25/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Never get tired of the cars looks botrh inside and out. A peppy 4cyl good economy. Quality of construction is the highest I have seen through many autos. A nice ride for a SUV with a well designed interior.

Excellence!

4.9
nnclyn on 10/25/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Wonderful SUV! Rides like a luxury car,and the comfort level is fantastic. I never expected to enjoy a SUV as much as I've been enjoying this Highlander. After shopping for months for an SUV, I found the Highlander to give a lot of value for the money. Comparing it to the Lexus sister...it's almost identical, without having spent $15,000 more!

Really Disappointed -Lost $$$$$

2.3
Carol W on 10/24/2003

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

Yesterday I traded in my Highlander after only having it for 6 weeks. I was not happy with the ride, acceleration, and small feel to the interior. It was too tight and not at all comfortable to drive. Seats seem cheap and not well padded. Very little leg room for driver. The stereo speakers had poor quality and bad sound. CDs sounded like a cheap radio. It was a mistake to buy and I lost several thousand on the trade, but now I have a 2002 Sienna and love it. It has better acceleration, much more comfortable seats and room! I still wanted a Toyota, but the Highlander really is not a good family vehicle.

Love my Highlander

4.9
memere on 10/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My first SUV. Drove 2 Avalons before this. Loved the Avalon. Highlander drives just as well and feels just as comfortable. Passengers often remark on the comfort in the back.

love the Highlander

4.9
rwh153 on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had the Highlander for over a month and have been extremly pleased. It handles beautifully and rides like a dream. The Schaumburg Toyota dealership has been great. There was a small chip on the door panel that I didn't see and when I returned to the dealership they fixed it immediately, no questions asked, and even gave me a loaner to use for the day.

great SUV

4.5
rabbits on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have previously owned 5 Ford Explorers. The Highlander is far superior and much more fun!

Me and My Highlander

4.9
Judy Heck on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My experience over the past year has been excellent. One of the first snow storms I was in happened in NY State where I found myself in 3 feet of snow. The car handled flawlessly. I had just traded in my Lexus LS400 two months before and am sure glad I was in the Highlander!

Love this vehicle!

5
uronmarco on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This beauty rides like a dream! Very comfortable seats. Love the large "back" area, great for groceries, pets ect...Just an overall great vehicle! Toyota delivers once again!

Versatile, Roomy & Confortable

4.9
Frank in Cleveland on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought in Aug 03. Great ride - with nice feeling of height above the road - like a delux car/truck. This 4 cyl has good pick up & about as much power as my previous 6 cyl 95 Camry. Highlander is totally assembled in Japan - well built, sturdy & quiet. Don't pay for factory alarm. Get after market Viper550 system installed for about $395 - which includes remote engine starter. I'm stll only getting 16-17 mpg after 2000 miles - should be closer to 21 mpg as shown on sticker. Hope it will improve after full breakin.

Highlander Best Vehicle Ever Owned

4.9
Peva on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Often we go to Colorado to visit family. These visits usually include trips to the mountains (Estes Park). While we were looking for a new vehicle, we wanted something that was quite, handled well in the mountains as well as the highway, and got reasonable mileage. The Highlander has proven successful in all of those areas, thus far. We are happy with our decision to purchase the Highlander.

best suv ever

5
jackie on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been the best car Ive ever driven. Ive had alot of compliments on the suv. Had a friend that went out and purchased one and said she has always liked her Toyotas, But, she loves this one ,fun to drive. It is wonderful in snow and ice.I always have people ask what kind of suv every where I go.Its the best!!!!

Love it

4.9
Reglo on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I researched all mid size SUVs and test drove about 3 of them. The highlander had the best ratings, a great ride, decent gas mileage. I feel comfortable, safe and stylish.

awsome

4.6
adriene on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great buy! This suv is not only affordable, but fun to drive. The clean design is both classy and sporty. I would recommend this truck to anyone looking for affordability and style.

I love it!!

5
pattipumpkin on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is a great vehicle and I have enjoyed every minute of driving it. The ride is great-very smooth. There is more front leg room than the Honda Pilot which I saw at the Auto Show in Chicago. My Highlander has been very reliable and the gas mileage is quite respectable for an SUV. I get a lot of comments from it from neighbors and coworkers and would recommend it to anyone.

Great mileage

4.9
rrgy2k on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I'm getting 21mpg in town (who ever heard of a car that gets 20% better gas mileage than the sticker?) Great rear seat comfort. Good ride. I couldn't be happier!

Worth it

4.9
stevo on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great vehicle, drives like a cadillac, roomier than it even looks. Can't go wrong with this truck.

Love My Highlander

3.9
boogerbare on 10/22/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is the smoothest riding vehicle I have ever owned. I like being up a little bit higher than every one else. It is also easier for my elderly Mother to get in and out. I traded in an Avalon that I dearly loved for it, so it had better be a great vehicle!

Wind noise baffles your ears...

4.1
MIDGIE on 10/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really love my 2003 Toyota Highlander. It is so easy to handle. Wet roads are a breeze. My only sour experience has been when you open the backseat windows. The air bounces around, creating a horrific baffling noise that batters your eardrums. You have to have one of the front seat windows open to prevent this. Hopefully it is a design issue and can be rectified. I'm already wanting to get a 2004 with the 3rd row seat.

New Highlander Owner

4
karmi on 10/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't care for the interior design. Console in the middle of the front seats is a waste of good space. Leave it open and put the cup holders on the doors like they are in the back seats. I've bumped the gear shifter into neutral at least 10 times already, I don't like it where it is in the middle. Better to have put it on the floor where the wasted space is, or back up on the steering column. I wish the gas tank was a little bigger, I have to get gas more frequently now just because it's a smaller tank than I was used to. I do like the way it drives, I feel safer in it than I did in my old car and the exterior design is really nice.

Love it

5
Bertha on 10/15/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love my Highlander - we looked into the Pilot, Trailblazer and Extera but the HIGHLANDER was the best. Very comfortable, perfect size for a small family, great mileage for an SUV. Repaced an american mini van that gave us nothing but headaches. This is my second Toyota and I am loving it.

Loving my new suv!!!

4.8
Bullseye on 10/08/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is a pure crossover suv. It has the body of an suv, but the smooth ride of a car. The Highlander is also $10000 less than the Lexus RX300. I received my suv with a quick order package and extra options for about $24000, which is a bargain.

Perfect for Empty-Nesters

4.9
BBoomer on 10/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 1400 miles, 3 washings and one waxing, I have not found any imperfection in the build quality of this vehicle. Good all purpose vehicle for those of us who like the comfort of a car and the ability to haul materials for weekend projects. Predictable handling on interstates as well as gravel roads. Easy entry and exit for us boomers with stiff knees.

Great SUV

4.9
rzo1978 on 10/04/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am very happy with my car, though its only been with me for 2 months, it has been good and fun.....

Toyota's Gem

4.8
PricanEsq on 10/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

A very comfortable smooth ride on the Highway as well as local streets. The cabin is quiet and comfortable. The perfect car for those who want the look of an SUV but the performance of a Sedan.

AWD 6cyl Highlander

4.6
crv139 on 09/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very comfortable vehicle, with lots of room.Very well insulated keeping outside noise out of the cabin. Engine is very quiet and responsive. Usually you can not tell the vehicle is running. Much better quality than the GM products (trailblazer,envoy,bravada) Only time i expect to take it back to the dealer is for maintance, Its a toyota!!

Great Vehicle

4.9
magapapa on 09/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Is a pleasure to drive and the ride is great. Drove to Maine from Ohio and was really a treat. Owned a Blazer but this vehicle has convinced me Toyota did their research!!

Better than my A6 Audi

4.4
martin j model on 09/25/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Having put up with 2 new BMWs and 2 new Audis over the last 6 years I am pleased to have a car that is reliable and well built unlike the over expensive German cars that let me down often. The Highlander is as comfortable and quiet as either of the German marques and is liked more by my family and the Golden Retreiver!

Highlander is the best SUV

5
Raju Veludandi on 09/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am experiencing the feeling of Lexus with my new Highlander. Better fuel economy, better price, better looks, pretty comfortable interiors and exteriors. Overall very good vehicle

Sweet ride

5
Bob West on 09/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought a used 2002 Highlander recently and love it. Vehicle is very user- friendly, controls are convenient, easy to get into and out of and lots of fun to drive.

Sound and Reliable, a real joy.

5
skokie on 09/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This Highlander rides and performs like a dream. Owned 2 Honda CRV`s and the Highlander rides much smoother.The exterior and interior are very finely crafted and a real joy to admire. The engine is a 6 cyl and the full time 4 wheel drive will be a pleasure to drive with confidence this winter. A truly beautiful vechicle!!

wife loves it

4.9
fastest on 09/19/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i tried the subaru outbacks, forrester, passat wagons. This one made my wife happiest because of the ride, height, capacity, and safety ratings.

RGClark

4.9
rgClark on 09/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is a fun car to drive. The turning radius is much better than the Lexus RX300.

HIGHLANDER

4.4
akapb on 09/15/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

A truly outstanding value. Very pleasant to drive and very ergonomic for driver and passengers. This car has drawn many compliments...it really is a car shaped like a SUV.

LUV IT!

5
Jeannethebean on 09/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is not my first Toyota vehicle so I expected reliability. It has met all my expectations. I tow two different boats with them loaded and I feel very safe. I have to drive many times through the night and I need to feel safe. It has proven itself through a tough winter. Handles very easily and I'm complimented on the ride all the time.

The Best SUV in the segment

5
tradland on 09/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great SUV Quiet smooth engine and aceleration, Great Quality and solid build and Best Value in its segment. Just like a Lexus but without the Leater and High Cost.

Incedible

5
tedi on 09/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander has been the most pleasant driving experience. I was extremely surprised at how comfortable this SUV was to drive long distances and handle like a car. Thank you Toyota for one incredible vechicle.

high on the highlander

4.8
k solo on 09/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

very impressed with the looks of the vehicle with the options only which included: fender flares and running boards; limited edition. $36,000 sticker price. without these exterior options, would've gotten the RX 300 lexus for $1500 more. very nice ride, happy for the wife (her ride). she loves it!

Great Buy!

4.8
loveolds on 09/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Rock solid and a great ride. Would benefit from a five speed tranny. Plenty of power with the 3L engine. No rattles and no defects. A solid buy.

IT BEATS ALL THE COMPETITION

5
fran ciulik on 09/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After checking all the SUV models in the mid-size range, realized that the Highlander could't be matched. Just took a long trip and was VERY pleased with the performance. Just wished I had purchased the Toyota line years ago, would have save myself a lot of problems. A GREAT SUV, that ride like a luxury car.

improvements

5
HAROLD KFARE on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

overall I am very happy with the vehicle

Toyota Highlander

5
Bob Baldwin on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great vehicle for the price. It does not ride like a truck, yet it gives you all the benefits of having one. Gas mileage is super and the overall comfort make driving fun.

Another Toyota!

4.8
Bill n Duane on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This our third Toyota my partner and I have purchased. You just can't beat Toyota for it's reliablity. We have had BMW's that spent more time in the repair shop then on the road. We test drove the Honda Pilot. What a dissapointment compared to the Highlander!

BHL

4.9
boris721 on 09/06/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The vehicle rides very comfortably and smoothly on all road types and conditions. The Limited is equipped with excellent features and design both on the exterior and in the interior. Overall this is a quality vehicle with plenty of interior space.

Excellent car. Would recommend!

5
y mason on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very comfortable and easy to drive. Has respectable pick up off onto expressways and very rapid responce.

HIGHLANDER REVIEW

4.8
Anniepogs on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great SUV. Rides like a car, easy to get in and out of. Love it. Absolutely no problems

2003 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

5
bbA on 09/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

tHIS suv IS POWERFUL, COMFORTABLE, QUIET. iT'S GREAT IN THE RAIN AND SNOW AND IS BY FAR THE BEST suv i'VE EVER OWNED. nO PROBLEMS WITH IT WHATSOEVER.

Better Than the Lexus

4.8
jmarcus on 09/04/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

As a Lexus driver I was disappointed in the RX330 as it has a new engine and new transmission and absolutely no low-end torque. Trying to merge onto the highway is almost impossible. The 2003 Toyota Highlander had the exact engine and transmission combination that I enjoyed in the RX300. The interior is even nicer than the RX300 interior and the purchase price is about $10,000 dollars less. If you look under the hood you couldn't tell which car was which.

Great family vehicle

4.4
Dave from MA on 09/04/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We purchased a AWD 6cyl about 2 weeks ago and we love it. It is a pleasure to drive compared to our old RAV4. It has plenty of room, silky smooth engine and tranny. After test driving the Highlander and 4Runner back to back, we went with the Highlander for the better ride. Since Honda dealers are not dealing with the Pilot, we figured we could with the Highlander. We got it for below invoice after a $1000 rebate from Toyota.

best I have ever owned

5
jack fleming on 09/03/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great to drive.I have a very bad back and I can say it is so easy on the back.I drove to Denver from south Florida last year and didn't have any pain or stiffness after driving.I have owned many cars in my 60 plus years,but none as great as this one.My previous cars were Blazers,but I will never go back

Satisfied Owner

4.9
Tanna on 09/03/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have not driven long enough to make any comments yet.

Highlander

5
RRFisher on 08/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had the Highlander for just over one year (2002 model) and it has been a dream to own. I had one seal (slight squeek when barely rolling) that had to be replaced at 3 months. Other than that it has been oil change and lube. I have not had one complaint. On the highway it is as nice to drive and ride as our Lexus.

Highlander Owner

5
BearIt on 08/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The handling capabilities of the Highlander are really awesome. It is quiet and gives a smooth ride even on rough terrain. It has lots of room for even my long legs and is has lots of comfort for passengers front and back.

love my highlander

4.4
daydreamerdee on 08/27/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first NEW car, and I am so proud I made such a good choice. I have had it for 1 month and love it. I don't like the tippy feeling when turning, but that is my only gripe. oh and also the price I paid...should have sent the guy back to the boss man 1 more time to get it down to where I told them when I first went in there. Other than that ...... I LOVE my new Highlander. SMOOTH.... Does the back window go down??

2003 Highlander

5
kmcculloh on 08/25/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After driving the Honda Pilot, Mitsubshi Endevor, Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Trailblazer and Ford Explorer, the Highlander was the winner. Exceptional ride quality, handling and engine performance. The car dealer was wonderful and easy to deal with. Driving this vehicle is a pleasure, it has responsive steering and excellent brakes. It also gets reasonable gas mileage for a SUV. I had every intention of buying the 4 cylinder but after driving both the 4 and V6, I choose the V6.

Tried Something New - Good and True

4.6
Grammar Girl on 08/24/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Ride is smooth and secure. Tires are huge! Road noise is minimal on highway compared to Camry I had previously. Large storage compartments up front are handy.

Best on the road!

5
Pruguy on 08/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best ride, most comfortable, most reliable SUV on the road. It is true. I will never go back to GM or Ford. And I think it is the best looking SUV on the road. I am a believer. If you test drive one you will be also.

An SUV that drives like a Camry

5
lbutch on 08/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned four Camry's and thought I would give a Highlander a try after all the good things I have heard about them. My only regret is that I didn't buy one sooner. I absolutely love this vehicle.There isn't a squeak or a rattle in it. It rides like a Camry and is so quiet we can whisper to each other when driving.I have never taken a Toyota back to have anything repaired or fixed after buying them except oil changes. A true pleasure to own and I would recommend it to anyone.

Glad I bought a Toyota

4.9
Toyota owner on 08/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This SUV is big enough without being too big, rides great, and has the visibility and room you expect in an SUV. I bought this to replace a '97 Ford Exploder and there is no comparison. It will pull 3500 lbs. (just like the Ford) which is more than plenty. I also looked at a Pathfinder, and the Toyota is superior in every way except towing capacity. You owe it to yourself to test drive the Highlander. I also considered a Honda Pilot, but there were few available (all at MSRP++) and the dealers wanted deposits on a car they couldn't deliver for a month.

Unknow Defect

4.8
TJ Chin on 08/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I would like to say I really enjoy my Highlander and it is really a pleasure to drive in all types of weather. I was truly impressed when I tried to make it go out of control on an icy patch of road in a parking lot no matter how hard I tried it had a mind of its own not to let me. The CSV is your Co-pilot and really assist to maintain control at all times.Traction? all of those Hummers and 4x4's look out this one will keep up with you.

New owner - V6 AWD Base HL

4.8
fvp on 08/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Could not be more pleased with this purchase. The Highlander is our second Toyota purchase this year [we bought a Sienna in February] and glad we went with the HL. We considered many other vehicles: Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder and the Outback wagon to name a few. None stacked up to the Highlander, plus we got it at invoice.

A Great Choice

4.9
JoeWino on 08/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have had 7 Toyota Cars over the years but this is our first Toyota SUV. Handles like a car. Great pick up. very nice features. I expect this one to be around our house a long time. got a great deal from the dealer. Bought it over the internet for 100 over invoice. Fully loaded. Wife is happy so what can I say. We still have a 96 Avalon that runs like the day I bought it only now it has 115,000 on it. The 99 Tacoma is my daughters now and it is still going strong. Great value and you get quite a bit for the money. Plus you get Toyota quality. Go buy one!

Great ride

5
Jack Durban on 08/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a well designed and built car. I say car because it does not ride at all like a SUV. It is fast and nimble and gets incredible gas mileage. I just turned in a Chevy Tahoe on an expired lease. To be honest GM had to send someone from another state to pick it up because no dealer would accept it back! No lie, no one wanted the pile of junk even though they were under contract to accept the vehicle at lease end. I will be buying more toyota vehicles in the future. Can't say that about GM.

Great Car - Reasonble Price

4.5
toylander on 08/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After test driving many vehicles in the same class (Honda Pilot, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Nissan Murano), we decided that the Highlander provided the best combination of ride, size, reliability and value. Through in the fact that we got the car at $1500 under invoice with 3.9% financing for 60 months, and we just couldn't turn it down. After owning two Volvo wagons that had unrelenting mechanical problems, it's nice to own a reliable vehicle that won't leave me stranded on the Jersey Turnpike in 100 degree heat.

highlander

4.5
hippie60 on 08/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

so far so good

No Regrets

5
123go on 08/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

end to end, this experience was great. Purchased my Highlander in Kingston - no hassles. I have approx 1100 miles and love it. Nice quiet ride and handles well.

mtnhygh

4.9
Lauriedarlynn on 08/05/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this is my 5th toyota, and I would buy 5 more, best cars on the road! Great car for the snow.

Have to drive to appreciate

4.4
Ericka on 08/05/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

When I went in to the dealership, I wanted a bigger SUV like the 4-Runner. I was trading in an X-Terra. I couldn't afford the 4-Runner so I test drove a Highlander with a few extras and drove it home. I was very pleased with the difference between this suv and the x- terra. It was wonderful being in a quiet smooth ride.

REPALCE THE LEX

4.6
PETERPAL49 on 08/03/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

THIS IS MY FIRST HIGHLANDER, WHICH IS REPLACING MY RX300. LOOKED AT FORD, CHEVY AND CHRYSLER, AND WAS NOT IMPRESSED WITH THE VEHICLES FOR THE MONEY THEY WANTED. THE HIGHLANDER IS VERY COMPERABLE TO MY RX IN MANY WAYS EXCEPT PRICE! 10 GRAN LESS!! THE LEX IS QUIETER AND A SOFTER RIDE, BUT FOR 10 THOUSAND MORE? THE HIGHLANDER WAS A GOOD COMPREMISE.

Touch Of Class

4.9
DDCTech on 08/03/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Saddens me that USA won't build something of this caliber. Has all the personality of a perfect gentleman. Refined, reserved, full of class but never snooty, this is as near a perfect vehicle as I have ever seen. Bland? Boring? Never! Want exitement? Buy a Pontiac. If you want the Ultimate Family Machine, the HL is for you. 10 years from now it will still have its dignity, which is more than can be said for the competition.

I LOVE MY SUV :-) :-) :-)

4.8
CHUBBS on 08/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I WENT ON A VACATION FROM NJ TO FLORIDA. I LEFT ON A SATURDAY AT 6:00 AM AND BY 6:00PM I WAS ALREADY IN GEORGIA. I FUELED UP ABOUT THREE TIMES. I LOVE MY SUV!!!

I love this car.

5
dtrimner001 on 07/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned this car for over 19 months, and I still look forward to driving it (It is my wife's primary vehicle). I have always owned American cars, and I am very very impressed with the tight fit of everything in the interior, and the curb appeal of this SUV. It has excellent headroom and legroom, 3 adults can sit comfortable in the back seat. Handles like a dream, smooth yet responsive. No, I would not take it off-road much more than I would an ordinary sedan, but it is a solid vehicle all the way around.

Highly Recomend Highlander to families

5
MrMnico on 07/29/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great vehicle for the money, esp if your looking to purchase instead of lease. We bought the 4cyl because it drove almost identical to the 6cyl and it was way better on gas. Ohh lets not forget that the 4cyl has a timing chain compared to the 6cyl which has a timing belt which means cost savings in the future. We did have leather and a towing package added to our model.

SMackey

5
SMackey on 07/25/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander does not handle like a typical SUV it handles more like a larger car model. The cruise control, widshiled wipers and lights are all at your finger tips without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

Best Bang for your Buck

5
JKTaps on 07/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Can't beat it for SUV performance, fuel efficiency, styling and comfort.

GREAT CAR!

5
mike2785 on 07/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Astounded by the interior fabric and materials, upscale look. The engine is quiet and the acceleration is surprisingly good. Cabin is roomy. Great on highways (just drove to SF for 12 hours one way). So far we LOVE it.

Love my Highlander

4.9
gdeducate on 07/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander has a smooth car-like ride with great interior space for those not needing a 3rd rear seat. I don't need extra seating, but there's plenty of room for the 2 dogs. My first experience in a V6 has been great, lots of pep.

Awesome

5
pedsjoey on 07/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

An excellent midsize SUV for those not wanting a minivan! It drives just like my Camry, but more fun to drive!

Nothing like the Highlander!

5
CBeagle on 07/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded in a beautiful black Ford Explorer Sport because they're discontinuing the Sport model. I went looking one day at the Highlanders for the heck of it. About a week later I traded the Ford in for the Highlander. You know why? The Explorer for one thing had over 100,000 miles on it and it drove like a TRUCK I wanted a mid- size SUV that drove like a car and this does; believe me, it's awesome. It has the Camry frame and when I tell you it drives nice, I'm not kidding. It's absolutely wonderful and no comparison to the Ford Explorer Sport, you'll love it.

Highander

4.8
Jimaam on 07/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A great car that handles and drives wonderfully and it is very easy to manuever in parking lots. It has traction control and AWD and it works great on slippery roads.

only one serious problem

4.6
pensat on 07/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this is a great vehicle. just got back from a 3500 mile drive to Canada and it performed wonderfully. even had some impressive off road moments on the rocky "beaches" of Nova Scotia. the ltd has a good stereo, otherwise I recommend the standard w/the 6 cyl. got the dvd which quieted the kids less than I had hoped, but it is impressive, especially the audio quality. got good mileage @ 25. serious problem: back window noise. Plus, only average rollover protection is another definite minus. but, still a vehicle I recommend highly.

03 toyota highlander

4.8
Rosemarie Sample on 07/17/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle is solid and refined. I previously owned an Infinity I30 and have found this highlander to be very close in comfort and smooth ride. The excelleration isn't as powerful as I would like but I am sure it is up to its horses. Also my last car was leather but the trim in this highlander is a very beautifully tailored cloth which I am very happy with. The SUV was also very comfortable on an 8hr long nonstop trip. My dealer in Bradenton Fl was excellent to deal with.

kens

4.5
kens on 07/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

i feel very safe in this vehicle .

Best car I've ever owned!

5
dick on 07/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is our second Highlander and it is an outstanding value and a great car. Plenty of room, excellent design inside and out and a pleasure to drive on long trips. WE LOVE THE CAR!

Highlander review

4.9
lin on 07/16/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I like the quite drive. It handles like butter. It carries my Siberian Husky and I can still see the road safley.

Highlander Smooth Rider

4.9
mktennis on 07/16/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is as complete a package in the mid-sized SUV around. The cockpit is well thought out and convienent. The AWD version sits up nice and high and handles rough unpaved roads with no problems. Interior is large enough for 5 and luggage.

Highlander

4.6
toyotah on 07/14/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

8,000 flawless miles. For me, the perfect vehicle.

What a deal!!

4.9
Fab Heidi on 07/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an overall great vechile.A lot of bang for the buck and you get a lot of great features also. Toyota has a great powertrain warranty and a good bumper to bumper. Anyone who is looking for a great midsize suv then the Toyota Highlander is definiately the way to go.

If you want a safe SUV - this is THE ONE

5
Florida Crosses on 07/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We purchased our SUV in December of 2002. As for quality, you won't get a better built and safer vehicle. This SUV truly is wonderful. It even gets decent gas mileage for an SUV (about 330 miles per tank).

SUV = Sedan-U-V

4.8
BA from SA on 06/26/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After researching and Test Driving Midsize SUV for more than 6 Months, I chose the Highlander. This vehicle gives me all the utility I needed without sacrificing the comfort I wanted. The car-like ride is smooth, coupled with the intuitive layout of the controls, gave me an instant feel of comfort. There was never an awkward moment in the vehicle. The more I drive it, the more comfortable and secure I feel. None of the competing SUV's, gave me such peace of mind. I am totally satisfied with my purchase! Test drive the rest, but you will definitely settle on the best, like I did.

Best "Car like" SUV

4.9
LCC on 06/24/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought my Highlander for $300 under invoice! Great deal for a lot of car. WOuld like a few more standard features in the base model, but it handles great, looks great, and is fun to drive. Better value compared to Honda Pilot LX, and handles much better. It was hard to find a 4WD 4- cyl, (didn't want the lower gas mileage of the 6) so had to take one fewer options than I would have liked, but it comes with almost everything I would have wanted anyway.

Very Happy!

4.8
blueflyyguy on 06/23/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am very happy with my purchase. I am able to pull a couple of waverunners up Parley's canyon well, and the Temp. gauge never leaves the middle. I wouldn't pull much more, but I am pleased. I used to drive a Ford Explorer, which gave me an SUV ride, now that I have the Highlander it is almost exactly like driving my Honda Accord. I bought the 2002 model used with 3k miles, so I got a good price break for a practacially new car.

The best choice out there

4.9
glad all over on 06/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We looked at several vehicles but kept coming back to the Highlander. The combination of style, comfort and performance is really the best out there right now for the money. We have been enjoying every minute in our new Highlander, it feels good, looks good and performs fantasticly. The Limited version has all of the features we wanted at a good price, none of the extremes of some other competitors such as Murano or even the Pacifica (yes, we did test drive one). I am looking forward to driving this car for a long time.

My Favorite New Car

5
Mikiejon on 06/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great suv/car. lots of room between back and front seat. The Highlander looks good especially in the Limited model. Gets up to speed on the freeways very quickly. Love the automatic climate control..just set the temp and forget about it!Lots of storage space all over the Highlander. It's just a great family ride!

Highlander 03 Denv

4.9
victoyo03 on 06/16/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchase this vehicle because I heard of it's great quality and that it is built on a Camry body frame that makes it ride very smooth. So far I am not disappointed except for one thing that has failed or is not working properly is the cruise control. However the dealership will take care of this. I bought the Limited Edition 4 Wheel Drive V6 3.0 litter fully loaded. It has the power to pull you out of an emergency i.e passing other cars or semi trucks. The only part I did not rate very well was in the gas mileage. It supposes to do 21 MPG city and 24 MPG Hwy. Instead does about 19 city 22 to 23 HWY. ItÂ’s spacious, drives like a car and looks great too.

What a vehicle

5
Finest Hour on 06/15/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This SUV is a real fun drive. You know are driving a well built vehicle

Dream SUV

4.9
Dawn Zgorski on 06/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I consider this SUV my dream car. It is so smooth and I just love to drive it.

Oh What a Feeling

5
djccarter on 06/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought near blind via the internet. I test drove one in 2001 when they came out and thought it was nice. My wife had never seen one, as we were living in Europe. The Toyota name was all that we truely had to bank on. We thought that was enough since we already own a Camry. WE WERE NOT DISAPPOINTED!

Toy

4.5
D.Ferguson on 06/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

On coming traffic think I have the high beam rather than low beam on. Fuel tank is full but register only shows 3/4 full.

New Owner

4.5
Carl Overy on 06/08/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The thing that I first noticed when I drove the vehicle that I eventually bought was how stable it felt when cornering. Appointments inside are adequate for the price range. Engine is quite snappy, good excellration.

I so love this SUV!

5
akinca on 06/05/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had this SUV for two weeks and I love it!! It handles well. It's quiet. It has all the options that I wanted. It's not too big or too small. It's just right in size. It was less expensive than the Pilot (and it came with all the "bells and whistles".) I'm very pleased with my purchase.

2003 2wd Highlander LTD

4.9
dsb on 06/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 15th toyota, and definitely my favorite..It is so comfortable, handles well, and has plenty of comfort features..Also drove Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder..No comparison!!

Love My Highlander

5
Carol Mc on 06/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really like Toyota's - having previously owned 2 Avalons. But I like the ease of in/out of a vehicle and visability of a van. But NOT a van person. It rides great, gas mileage is very good and has ROOM.

Dream Car

5
Kalpaj on 05/29/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We just bought this car and we love it!!! The car has ample legroom and seats are very comfortable. Drive is quiet and smooth and the car handles bumps very nicely. I have no regrets

Pretty Good

4.9
Yordge on 05/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the second Highlander I have owned. I purchased a 2003 to get heated seats and better ergonomics. Both Higlanders have had wind noise problems that have mystified the Toyota dealers. Go Figure. I drove it to Orlando from Maryland and it was a pleasure- good milage and plenty of room. I do wish Toyota offered a DVD package for the kids. MI know I'l get a Lexus.

One NICE SUV!

4.9
jalesriley on 05/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Luxurious ride. Beautiful, well thought-out interior. Nice amenities. Great cargo space. Just okay gas mileage (currently ave. 20/gal). "Vanilla" outside design.

Glad I test drove it

5
phandy on 05/26/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I looked at various cross-over and small SUV's for a year and thought the Subaru Forester was the one I wanted till I drove it. Didn't feel comfortable for my size. Then there was the Honda CRV, but it seemed kind of blah inside and the dealer didn't budge on the sticker price. Fortunately I kept looking and tried the Highlander. I love it and am so glad I kept test driving different models till I found just the right one. Had it for 5 months and am looking forward to taking it on vacation this summer,

Best Value in America

4.8
Bike on 05/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Recently purchased, 03 Highlander base model, I travel in sales and this vehicle impresses me more each day. My customers sem to like at well as I have benn driving to the golf outings almost every weekend. My wife loves it as well but, I don't let drive it too much. Great road feel, good acceleration and best of all lots of room to put all my stuff. Best vehicle I have ever purchased, and I have had many. Im 52 and busy.

Highlander performs

4.5
SCVmom on 05/20/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have enjoyed this car immensely. I have had no repairs, only routine maintenance. It was a good decision to choose this model, but if I had it to do over, I would buy the 6 cylinder. The 4 is just a little too gutless for my taste.

Great value, beautiful car

4.9
Jack O'brian on 05/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

One of the best experiencial features of the Highlander is the feeling you get while driving it. It has that great feeling of driving a big truck, but at the same time, from the outside, it looks very compact and versatile. The vehicle is actually smaller than the Camry by a couple of inches, yet it still has that spacious, big feeling of a truck and fits nicely in any parking space or two-car garage. This is the best choice to buy if you're looking to get the "truck" feeling at an inexpensive figure, with great value!

Happy with my Highlander

5
BrianF on 05/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This SUV is Great. Lots of room, the 4cyl has pep and gets great milage. Handles great and can make a U turn in half the space of the MAXIMA I traded in.

Very Efficient Package

4.9
Grenedy on 05/16/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have just turned 1000 miles on new black/gray base 4cyl w/QO,AW,DR,HE,HP,MG,SR,SP,Z1 paid $1,000 under invoice. Vehicle has been excellent thus far. Only issue is engine can be a bit "buzzy" on launch and works pretty hard with full load and A/C on. But the overall quality package, low price and fuel economy, for me, outweigh any performance issues.

SUV feels like Car Driving

5
Surendra Patel on 05/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent overall, Excellent pickup menuvering, cornering, ride and comfort. Fual economy is acceptable accoring to the weight of the vehicle. Out side look need little improvement.

Excellent All Aroud Vehicle

4.9
dbrad123 on 05/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my highlander for 4 months now. I traded in a RAV4 bacause the size was too small. The highlander is perfect for full figured woman. The ride is very smooth and very little road noise.

great value

4.9
jus on 05/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

after weeks of research comparing mid size suvs, I chose the highlander, hands down, as the best value in its class. I purchased the 4X2 V6, The cars ride is fantastic and the V6 provides plenty of power. (the V4 is no slouch, but I found that there was a bit more engine noise when acclerating) At a base price of less than $23K, I got mine with options - for very close to invoice. Do your research and get quotes online - will save you alot of time. I also looked at honda pilot but the dealer was not willing to deal. The Pilot will cost you $3K more than a highlander with the same features. The highlander is a great car and the best bang for your buck!

so long BMW X-5 Hello Highlander

5
pb on 04/26/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought Limited edition for my wife and traded in her 2001 BMW X-5 (poor reliability). Test drove XC90 Volvo, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX and Lexus RX330. We both agreed that the Highlander won hands down. Didn't like new drivetrain, 5 speed auto, of Lexus; could feel down shifting and slight whine on deceleration; too lond a wait for Pilot; MDX and XC90 to pricey vs. Highlander.

A Solid Grocery-Getter

4.5
Hokie on 04/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Stepped up from a RAV4 for added size and safety. The stable, car-like feel of the Highlander offers no surprises. Although hesitant at first about the 4-cyl., we are finding that it's adequate for our needs--mostly "grocery-getting" with an occasional 150-200-mile expressway trip.

Camry convert

5
BOZ on 04/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've wanted a Highlander for two years and it's beautiful in every way!!!

The SUV that drives like a car

4.9
Dunedude on 04/14/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was looking to buy an SUV, but didn't want to give up the comfort and smooth ride of a normal car. The Toyota Highlander was a perfect match for me and I do not regret my choice. If you decide to buy the Highlander, I would vividly recommend the Limited AWD version (you reallt get the most bang for the buck).

aerodynamics problem

4.4
Edavis on 04/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander has a smooth quiet ride until the back windows are open, then all hell breaks loose! There is an unbearable rummbling sound that gets worse as one continues driving. This vechicle is perfect if one plans on never opening the back windows. If you plan on buying a Highlander I strongly suggest you test the back windows first!

2003 Highlander Ltd

4.9
LoveOlds on 04/11/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Lots of wind noise at speed. Watch rear window helicopter effect if rear windows are down. Pebble guard on front hood causes whistle. Other than wind noise, this SUV is a joy to drive and own.

First-time Toyota Owner

5
jpjr on 04/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Always had full-sized SUVs. This vehicle is truly a dream. A real sweet ride. Very smooth and excellent handling in rain/snow conditions -- holds the road effortlessly with a great secure feeling. First time I can honestly say that I took possession of a new vehicle and never had to go back to the dealership with a complaint about anything!!

Usual Toyota Qaulity, BUT...

4.3
dehlerg on 04/09/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is good-looking, peppy with the V6, nimble feeling, perfect height for us, roomy feeling, fun too drive. We really dislike the small unlit mirror in the sun visor of this $30,000 car. We donÂ’t understand why Toyota wasted time putting electronics in the rearview mirror, including a compass, but then excluded the outside temp gauge. Soundproofing left plenty of room for improvement, hear lots of road noise. Even though based on Camry chassis, Highlander has relatively bumpy ride.. Gas mileage is poor. On a 200-mile round trip averaging about 68 miles an hour, we got slightly over 20 mpg after 6 months of driving.

recent purchase

4.9
mofire on 04/05/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

highlander is everything we were hoping it would be. quiet, tight build excelent ride and extremely comfortable.

Just unloaded jeep grand cherokee

3.6
thensum on 04/03/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

I just bought this car after getting rid of my much defective grand cherokee. As far as style and power, the jeep was more of a "kick ass" look and feel. I am getting used to driving this one now. It feels okay but dosen't have the power that the jeep had. If there weren't so many mechanical problems with the jeep, i would of bought another one. I like the look, style, feel and power much better. Too bad

Best of all worlds

4.9
craigvv on 04/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have had this Highlander since late 2001. We had to purchase the Limited to get Vehicle Skid Control. It is AWESOME. Both VSC and the car. It is the smoothest ride we ever had in any car including a rental Caddy. VSC has saved us once each winter! Best of the best, no question!

Highly Impressed

4.9
sbang on 03/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Everything u read about the reviews are correct. This car will leave u highly impressed. It's very roomy and comfortable inside. The reclining back seat will get u alot of ooohs and ahhhs. U don't really get that feeling of driving a heavy SUV. This car feels like it's gliding over the road. All the added bells and whistles in the Limited edition will make u so glad that u raked in a couple of more $$ a month.

Price

4.8
NTOIA on 03/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Edmunds is showing over invoice pricing. Bought $1000 under invoice with rebate ($1000). Invoice plus rebate is a good target. Probably will get better in near future. Birmingham dealer advertising double rebate ($2000). Not sure deducted from what. Auburn dealership won't deal. Dick Dyer Toyota in Columbia SC showing $3000 to $4500+ off MSRP on net site without haggling.

Glad I did my homework!

4.9
robbert31 on 03/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car. Room that we needed and the luxury we didn't think we could get in an SUV that wasn't an BMW or a Lexus.

A lot of car

4.8
touche on 03/28/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I'm a long time Toyota driver. I traded in a 2001 Avalon an didn't want to give up a comfortable ride. Not only is my Highlander comfortable, it look's great with what looks like "Candy Apple Red" color. Looks good, feels good and is good.

Nikki's Review

4.9
Nikki on 03/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really enjoy owning my highlander. It's everything it suppose to be in an SUV and more. The gas mileage is decent for a 4 cylinder. I average 24 mpg. I expect to get better gas mileage when I get closer to 20,000 miles.

love it!!

5
ssp on 03/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just bought my highlander and I am loving it. Drives so smooth, like a sedan, and the AWD is a lifesaver living in New England. Great in the snow, and the gas mileage isn't bad since I bought the 4 cylinder. For all of you wondering how the 4 cylinder does with AWD, it's plenty for me! It's not a speed demon but has plenty of power, I'm really happy with it.

Just awesome

5
mik00725 on 03/16/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fuyn to drive the best dolalr to value you could get./

A New Hylander

5
Patterson, Debbie on 03/15/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

In March of 2002 I recently purchaced a new Hylander from Toyota of Temecula. Ever since we have had the Hylander we have loved it. Personally I believe that it should be one of the 10 Best for Car and Driver. We love the Hylander.

BEWARE

1.6
BEWARE on 03/12/2003

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 3

Bought an 03 HighlanderV6.Replacing my loaded Mountaineer lease,I knew Id sacrifice some bells & whistles,but wanted a smaller SUV. Toyota makes a great safe car,I thought it was a no-brainer. Well,BUYER BEWARE!Dont drive over 38mph with the back window down or youll feel like your ears will explode.Worse than a plane.If this wouldn't bother you, then I'd say its a nice choice.However,if you care about your kids or backseat passangers ears,I BEG YOU TO SEARCH FOR SOMETHING ELSE,or at the least make sure it comes w/a sunroof to slightly alleviate it. With the great ratings&reviews I thought Id be thrilled, but you live & learn. DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!

Lacks navigation systym

4.5
Mike N. on 03/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Love this vehicle. Only thing lacking is a navigation systym.

BEWARE

1.6
beware on 03/12/2003

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 3

Bought an 03 HighlanderV6.Replacing my loaded Mountaineer lease,I knew Id sacrifice some bells & whistles,but wanted a smaller SUV. Toyota makes a great safe car,I thought it was a no-brainer. Well,BUYER BEWARE!Dont drive over 38mph with the back window down or youll feel like your ears will explode.Worse than a plane.If this wouldn't bother you, then I'd say its a nice choice.However,if you care about your kids or backseat passangers ears,I BEG YOU TO SEARCH FOR SOMETHING ELSE,or at the least make sure it comes w/a sunroof to slightly alleviate it. With the great ratings&reviews I thought Id be thrilled, but you live & learn. DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!

Just Excellent

5
momcat on 03/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this Highlander last year. It is more than 22000 now. Great Car, easy to drive, comfortable on the road especailly long trip. Great mileage.

We did our homework!

5
JohnJ on 03/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We researched for nearly 3 months. Toyota by far has the best products. We purchased our Highlander from Toyota of Easley in South Carolina. This is an excellent dealership (ask for Jim Goss), anyone in the tri-state area (NC, SC, GA) looking for a Toyota, should contact them. They have all of their selling prices listed on their web site so it makes things easier to deal with. We purchased a Highlander 2WD, bluestone, leather interior, roof rack, alloy wheels, power seat, privacy glass, floor mats, cargo net, keyless entry, tonneau cover and tow prep. $25,600. If your in the market for an SUV or family car, give the Highlander a look.

awesom!

5
green thumb on 03/08/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I heard about the Highlander I knew I wanted it.I have been happy ever since.Handles shockingly well in snow and rain - abs & 4 wheel drive kick in and I don't have to worry about it.gas mileage is terrific,cargo area is easy to access as are the rear seats when you need to carry large items. enjoying the compliments on the color (bluestone metallic)and design. love this vehicle, way to go Toyota!

Happy wife with 6K in my pocket

4.9
happyowner88 on 03/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have put 600 miles in two weeks. I drive a 2002 ES300 lexus and it's silky smooth. But my wife's highlander is actually smoother and more like a lexury car. Yes, it's hard to believe. we thought about new 2004 rx330 but went ahead and bought Highlander 2wd limited. If you want to save $$$ in this economy and don't care too much about the badge, this is it. Make sure you keep your tire pressure to factory recommanded 30psi.

Riding high

4.6
ddn_11 on 03/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have had the car now for 2 months and it is wonderful to drive. The car is spacious feels airy and comfortable. I had test drove 3 other similar cars and the Highlander went to the top of the list. The engine a V6 is strong and smooth. The AWD is great in the snow. The car's finish is nearly perfect and everything is laid out nicely in the cabin and the controls are easy to use. While some reviews complained about the odd placement of the shifter, I have no complaints. The exterior is growing on me and somewhere between the CRV and the 4Runner. Its a SUV after all and boxy is okay...though the Honda Pilot I thought was too boxy.

Need a smooth ride in SUV

5
RAJA on 03/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is good and very nice to drive in the cities.

Love My New Highlander

4.9
T. P. on 02/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After driving Plymouth Voyagers for the last 12 years I was looking for something a little smaller. After the test drive I was hooked! It has a car- like ride, and is so much easier to handle than the vans. At 5' tall, I love being able to adjust the driver's seat height. Now I can really see! It comes with lots of extras usually found as expensive options on other makes. It handles well, and is easy to back up due to good visibility from the back window. I am impressed at the peppiness it has for lane changing or merging onto the highway. I've had it for a month now, and couldn't be more pleased. Would do it again!

Drives like a car.

4.9
PRIME703 on 02/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just purchased my SUV this week. I test drove must of the other suv's in this catagory. Once I drove this one I had to purchase it. Rides like a car but with the power of a suv. I got the tow system and all the bells and whistlers. Gold package, security system, keyless entry, power locks and seats, moon roof, heated side windows and side air bags. I also got it about $4,000 below MSRP. What a deal!

Impressive!

4.5
sbbinau on 02/25/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Drive this thing long enough and you will swear you are in a sedan. Quiet, smooth, powerful, tight. No road noise...just the low hum of a wonderful V-6. Space is ample, driving comfortable. Classy feel on interior, even in non-limited package. Mileage so far has been so-so...but should improve as vehicle gets broken in. You will like this SUV...trust me.

I have had it 2 Years

5
Doug V on 02/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have had our Highlander for almost 2 years now. It is an incredble vehicle. I drives like a car, handles like a car and accelerates like a car. We have not regretted this purchase for a moment.

Great Luxury Mid-size SUV for the price!

4.9
reviewthiscar on 02/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I test drove a few other comparable SUV's and the highlander was the most luxurious inside verse the Honda's Pilot/Nissian's Murano; furthermore, the SUV drives very quietly...like a car. The interior of the Highlander is very similar to the Lexus SUV-300 except the Lexus has more of a electronic dash, and obviously...the Toyota's price is a lot less.

2001 Highlander

4.5
jerrycg on 02/21/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Comfortable and dependable. Pleasure to drive. Concerns: excessive road and wind noise, instruments recessed and difficult to see when lights are not on. Transmission gear change not as smooth as should be. Great sound system. Average to less gas mileage hw18 cit.15 Tow boats and handles well. I would consider buying another.

J1404de

5
j1404de on 02/20/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

IT is very roomy for a small size and has a lot of great options. The car chasis makes it very smooth to rid. NO engine/wind noise and great feautres. The seats are very comfortable.

Smooth Rider

4.8
Scotty W Sly on 02/19/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have had this car for 1 year at this point. Ride is exceptionally smooth-I like it better than the BMW it replaced. Reliability has been top notch (unlike the BMW!). Drivers view is commanding and broad. Space utilization is great. I wish stereo was a bit finer like my wifes' Acura MDX (another winner, by the way). Looks are not great-but , hey it's a wagon-like SUV-so who really cares!

relief to have a reliable car

5
RVincent10 on 02/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this vehicle is a wonderful blend of car and suv. having had a '97 ford explr xlt, there is no comparison. the ford was unreliable and required numerous repairs. once it died in busy traffic with an emissions failure. It also had a squeak and numerous rattles ... My '00 honda also has a rattle over bumps.. the highlander had a rattle when the sunroof was open, but once the luggage rack was adjusted and tightened it was gone. the highlander has better handling than the ford. Although it seems to roll abit on turns, if you push it and turn at a higher speed, it grips the road firmly and doesn't tilt much more than it did at lower speeds.

2003 Highlander

4.8
JEF on 02/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

After researching this vehicle online for many months, it was time to test drive one. We test drove an AWD, V6 with Sunroof and roof Rack System. The engine was very quiet for a V6 and had plenty of power as I took it on the highway. On the return trip, it was my wifes turn to drive. She liked that fact that she didn't need a ladder to enter the vehicle. The steering was responsive and the suspension was good on the frost heave encrusted roads. We had two of our children with us (15, 11 ) and they were comfortable in the back seats. The youngest trying every knob and button he could find! All in all, a pleasure to drive and is very quiet.

SUV For People who Hate SUV's

5
ets on 02/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I wanted a safer car for my commute and my family (we have to tote a wheelchair.) OTOH, I have always been one of the "SUV-Hater" crowd. I had to take a deep breath and get over my bias when I saw the Highlander. It is a beautiful (dare I say macho?) design and drives wonderfully. I seriously recommend people look at the 4 cylinder. At least with front wheel drive it is plenty zippy, no problem with getting on the highway or going well over the speed limit. I am getting about 20 miles/gallon in family driving. I was getting about 23 in the Ford Focus SE wagon I traded in. Give it a look.

Great SUV

5
bedeaton on 02/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought the Highlander for my wife and she loves it! It has great visability and all options. It is a very comfortable ride with plenty of power with great fuel economy. I would highly recommend this for anyone who needs a little extra room and does not need an off road vehicle.

Great Car (I mean truck) : )

5
Presto on 02/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is a great car. With the utility of an SUV, and the ride of a car it meets my every need for all 362 days of the year that I'm not camping. I love this SUV!!! Good acceleration, nice ride. I have the Limited 4x4 v6. I love it!

Pretty Good

3.3
Pilotboy03 on 02/10/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

The highlander is a wonderful viecle with a very nice ride, toyota build quality and reliability and good fuel economy for its class. Although I was dissapointed that the car is extreamely boreing to drive, bland and although toyota is known for its great looks on its SUVs this one is a dissapointment. Although its interior design is great the exterior design looks weak and to soft. A good alternate for this viecle is the Honda Pilot More room, a lil' more power and much more rugged exterior looks with the same level of refinement.

Expected Much More

3.9
whale2 on 02/08/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I probably should've test drove the car a couple more times and I probably would have realized that while driving the foot pedals are not in the most convenient location...maybe it's just my height--6'. It's just not as comfortable driving as I wanted. The most disapointing though has to be the gas mileage. We only get 20 city and 22 highway...(should be 22 and 27). Took it to the dealer and found out that is within their specifications somehow and basically have to deal with it. Quite unfortunate and very disapointing.

Great SUV/Car

5
RichTeg on 02/08/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Never having owned an SUV I did a lot of research. Edmunds.Com was very helpful. I was able to get a good prive via the internet, then offered my local dealer a chance to match it, which she did. The purchase process was very smooth and delivery was within a few weeks. The vehicle was in excellant condition upon arrival. I love the feel and overall package.

Not REAALLLY an SUV

5
esiegel2 on 02/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've been looking for a larger safer car and settled on the Highlander. I had a crisis of conscience about buying an SUV, but when I drove the 4 cylinder and realized that it was plenty zippy, I got over it. I get mileage comparable to my ford focus SE wagon that the Highlander is replacing, and I feel much safer. It is the best looking car I have ever owned, even better than the pictures.

Good Vehicle

4.6
hibank33 on 02/07/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A good reliable crossover suv.Very safe good gas mileage rides very nice.Wife has had to make 1 evasive maneuver and she said it handled it very well at 40 mph.Rides like a car

Happy Highlander

4.9
Highlander on 02/04/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great handling and more than adequate room for 4 adults w/ golf clubs. The snow in NY has been no problem w/ this vehicle.

BEST SUV I'VE EVER DRIVEN

5
KNUTSEN on 02/03/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I DRIVEN SEVERAL SUV'S IN MY TIME BUT I HAVE NEVER DRIVEN AN SUV LIKE THIS ONE. THE BEST

I am soooo happy

5
MBurrill on 02/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just turned in my 97' Jeep/Sport and I was lucky enough to find the Highlander in my search for a car with an excellent reliability rating, with some driver height so I could see above alot of the traffic. I was amazed to find the sweet car-like cruise ride, the incrediable leg room for my rear passengers (which is sometimes me!) and noting a great resalability helped me feel assured in my decision

Honest Review

4.5
Kelly in Texas on 01/31/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Have just had the Highlander V6 for 1 day but am loving it already. Great ride. Very good gas milage for a SUV. Quality throughout. Test drove Ford and Chevy SUV's then the Highlander. You can just feel the higher level of quality.

Highlander's A Hit

5
GaTony on 01/30/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best SUV have ever been it. It really drives and feels like a car. Excellent handling on secondary and major highways. Super quiet. Lots of interior room. Excellent power, even with 4 cylinders, great gas mileage. Beats most cars in mileage. I can't believe people buy other SUV's for more money!

THE BEST SUV!

4.9
conson on 01/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

TOO NOISY WHEN WINDOWS DOWN AT HIGHWAY SPEED.

this the best yet

5
ln on 01/28/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

love the rid efit and finish there is no better quality than toyota

Best vehicle to buy

4.9
vicedmunds on 01/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We are very satisfied with the Highlander. The customer's reviews on Edmunds were very valuable. The issue concerning thumping wind noise when either single or both windows open was true. Maybe they designed it this way to discourage passengers from opening the rear windows when the vehicle is moving. Also the radio on the model that we purchased didn't have the best sound, another point that one of the customers mentioned. The ride, power, gas mileage and build in this vehicle are best in the market.

Highlander's a Winner!

5
Jim Martin on 01/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a VERY comfortable car to drive. I am 6'4" and I find the driver's seat to be the most comfortable in any vehicle in its class. I drive over 80 miles per day, and the Highlander makes the drive very enjoyable. The 4 cylinder engine is a great cruising engine and it is economical. Highly recommend the Highlander to prospective buyers.

Excellent SUV

4.9
HAllen on 01/25/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We traded in our 2000 Jeep Cherokee as we wanted something more roomy and better gas mileage. We got both with the 2003 Highlander. We got the 2 wheel drive 4 cylinder model. We can't say enough about the comfort of this vehicle. IT is one of the best riding vehicles we have had and it handles very nice. A couple minor things we don't care for is the light interior that came with our silver Highlander and the cup holder. Other than that we love our Highlander!

Awesome

5
Moddie on 01/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

In the short term I've had the truck, I absolutley love it! Powerful, effortless driving. I'm driving the Limited, so alot of extra comfort is there, that is not available on the Pilot! Westchester Toyota, simply put, incredible! The salesman, manager and all involved, have made buying this vehicle a true pleasure! They have gone way out of their way for me, Thanks!

Very good job!!!!!

4.9
Rilke on 01/18/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned for 8 months. I have been fun with this black bear.

Perfect Mix

5
BetterPrice on 01/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I studied SUV options for a few months and only one was on EVERY list I made. Price, Reliability, Re-sell value, Looks, Insurance, Reviews, Performance, Options...etc. I am a Honda guy, but I just couldn't justify the extra $5000+ for essentially the same ride in the Pilot. The Highlander is an awesome value for what you getting. Great job Toyota! I'm extremely pleased and impressed.

Best Buy

5
speed1079 on 01/15/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

had the highlander for almost a month now and continues to enjoy it. if you want an suv as your primary vehicle then this is an exact fit because it rides like a car for everyday driving and yet roomy enough for long trips during the holidays.

Atlanta Trekker

4.9
smith and jones on 01/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The more I drive it, the more I like it. Handling is good, It is much smoother than my daughter's Explorer.

Best Car In The Market

5
David McCory on 01/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Not much thing to say, overall is a best car I ever seen

Love the Highlander

5
lioney111 on 01/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent handling, drives more like a car than a truck. Interior is spacious and airy, with plenty of backseat legroom when passenger side front seat is pulled back. Cargo area and ability to create cargo space a big plus; no hump in the center back seat floor so even tall items can be fit inside. The safety features work! Experienced a T- bone collision with full front hit from speeding 45 mph Honda sedan. Air bags deployed, engine dropped down as described in Toyota literature. No windows broke, we were able to walk away with minimal injury from the impact and seat belt/air bags working properly. Although totalled, I plan to get another Highlander.

wife's favorite car ever

4.5
sajslade on 01/04/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

We like the vehicle overall, but expect a little more in a top of the line vehicle (have a Limited awd 6 cyl)

Toyota Highlander

4.9
chucktown on 01/01/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased the V6 AWD with CQ,DR,FE,PE,PG,TO,UZ options as well as the distributor's installed options:Carpet Mats and Toyoguard Plus Protection for $27,300 including taxes,title and fees.The Highlander gave us the benefit of having more room without having to get a minivan,the safety of the Camry (which this is based),the reliability of Toyota,and the price tag which doesn't break the bank.The ride is smooth even over bumps and RR tracks.The car is solid and sound when slamming doors.It is roomier between the driver and passenger seats than my Dad's 4-Runner,and I would say has just as much room.A really nice ride and a really nice automobile.

Damm Near Perfect... I'll Keep It!

4.4
JonHailey on 12/27/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Solid feeling body. No rattles. Smooth, silent, drive-train. Ample power. Pleasurable engine/door closing sounds. Right size outside/inside dimensions. Handy in tight parallel parking situations. Excellent foul weather handling. Seats are long term comfortable. Running close to EPAÂ’s mileage estimate. Well placed armrests. Few, if any blind spots. Good mirrors. Flat floors! Rear seats recline. Ivory interior hard to keep clean. No change holder. Center console storage awkwardly arranged. Wind rush at highway speeds with any window/sunroof open. No power passenger seat. Few manual seating adjustments. No memory settings. No shelf for cargo area.

I love my new Highlander!

4.9
Andrew 0801 on 12/25/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I absolutely love the new Highlander. As for reviewers who complain of wind noise on the freeway or cheap feeling materials, I have no idea what they're talking about or what type of car they are used to driving. The car is quiet, well constructed, feels very solid, thoughtfully designed, and handles well. I know of several people who own the RX-300, and this car feels just as good for a lot less money. The sales/support from the dealership has been excellent, and they made purchasing the car a pleasant experience. We also looked at buying the MDX, but overall found the Highlander to be a better value and have absolutely no regrets.

Marsha's Ride

5
Toto in Kansas on 12/24/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Highlander is a super ride!!! Two kids, a husband, and being able to take our dog were the reason for looking at an SUV. Pilot's were pricey and little dealing. My Camry was great and wanted Toyota quality. 4 Banger is great, just put your foot in it. Snow in St. Louis was a great work out for AWD and ECT switch. 75-80 MPH no sweat on I-70, buy and enjoy.

great suv

4.9
jimmney on 12/22/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i have had my highlander for 1 month now,i just love it . great suv

great car

4.9
jons highlander 2wd on 12/20/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This truck car SUV van whatever you wanna call it is great!! u gotta watch your speed the powerful enginw will get you to 90 in a matter of seconds on the highway it has a great design and everything in it is so great. Handling i so superb it is just so powerful even though it's only 2WD i like the ect snow button thats starts it out in 2nd gear in the snow.The breaks are very powerful when you hit the brake. Doesn;t have that tippy feeling around turns like my friend's blazer does .i like to see whos car is faster i beat my friends explorer and also my bros caprice great vehicle overall for any type of familt that has a little bit of money to spend

Best Car For The Money

4.9
Toms River Door & Wi on 12/19/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had 2 Explorer's before and I got tiered of the truck like ride and feel. I didn't want a vehicle larger than what I had. The Hieghlander fit my needs perfectly. Between the craftmanship and the beautiful ride you will not fine a better car.

Awesome SUV

4.9
BobNJ on 12/17/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the 2003 Limited fully loaded. The options raised the priced to $32,500. I tried the Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder w/comparable trim. The Pilot was roomy but the interior felt cheap. There was a 3 months wait which gives little room to haggle. The Pathfinder has a very nice but narrow interior. Highlander handles the curves with some body lean (less than other SUVs). The pickup is very smooth with no sudden jolts. It's made for the surburbanite who never go offroad and only takes occassional take trips to Vermont for skiing. The interior is ergonomically designed. The leather seats and simulated wood panels gives it a simple classy look.

Finally, your money's worth!

5
chelled on 12/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I finally got what I paid for!! Maybe a little more!! Roomy, comfortable, slightly more fuel efficiant than most SUV's (4cyl), classy, and affordable. Six months and haven't found anything I don't like. Thanks Toyota!

Greatest SUV

4.8
Mr. SUV on 12/12/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the best SUV made for the size. Car like ride with great acceleration off the line. I have owned a lot of cars and SUV and this one is the TOPS. I drive a lot of miles, over 33,000 a year, and this vehicle is very comfortable even for a person who is 6'3" and 250 lbs.

Best vehicle I've every owned.

5
Trippsgp on 12/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

In the 30 days I've owned my Highlander it has given me more pleasure than any vehicle I've owned in over 40 years of driving. With two wheel drive it preformed great in snow and ice. It has the most comfortable ride of any SUV I've every ridden in and drives like a dream.

Lemon. Well almost.

2.9
javax on 12/09/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

At 13000 miles, cheap interior started making noise. Globe compartment rattles, the clicking noise from passenger door, anoying rattle from the driver's side rear door, and ticking noise from under the hood (plastic trims that holds the windshield). They are all snap-on plastic pieces. Futhermore, the engine light and VSC light come on and stay on. Also, a few times, as I start the vehicle, the engine stalled. We I had a Ford Explore before this vehicle and I regret that I traded it in with this one at 70000 mi. What an expensive mistake I made... Sorry Ford, I will buy yours next again.

Rattles a Surprise

4.5
Surprised on 11/30/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall I love to drive my Highlander. It's quick, nimble and quiet (for a SUV). However, after 20k miles there are two rattles in the interior. Toyota charges a premium for their vehicles and I used to think it was well worth it due to the quality...I'm starting to wonder now.

Utility, Comfort and Class

5
Steven M on 11/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Highlander is the best combination of utility, comfort and class available on the market today. I wish I had bought a Highlander sooner. Everything about it is perfect. But I do wish it got better gas mileage.

another winner

5
sarsi on 11/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I accompanied my sister to buy her 2nd car in 13yrs(first car-camry '89 with 200K miles and still running). This SUV or CAR, or WHATEVER is a perfect vehicle for daily commutes and long drives. We already love it the first time we drove home. This is a "Grand Slam" for TOYOTA.

Very Nice

4.1
SeanTh on 11/17/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

We have had our 2K3 Highlander for one month and we have been very pleased. The ride is on par with the Lexus RX300 for $5000 less. It is just the right size for my wife to drive - big enough to carry the baby, a stroller and groceries with room to spare - and small enough to maneuver in the parking garage at work. The biggest problem is that it is so quiet and powerful, you can really get going fast if you don't watch the speedometer.

From Explorer to Highlander

4.9
SacDriver on 11/12/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I used to drive an Explorer unitl I recently sold it and got a Highlander. The ride and comfort is like night and day. The Highlander is so smooth and responsive. It's a joy to drive. The interior is classic, comfortable and well designed, while the engine is quiet and reliable. The only complaint is when the rear windows are rolled down with the front windows up, it sounds like a helicopter is landing on you. I've heard of this condition with the Highlander before and it is loud, but we never drive with only the rear windows down so it's not a real problem for us.

Higlander, AWSOME SUV!!!!!!!!!

4.9
i am on 11/09/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I got my Highlander 2 months ago,and I have not had any problems yet. (what am I saying,of course I haven't had any problems! I'm driving a Toyota!) I previously leased a 1999 4-runner and had no problems.It was never in the shop,(exept when I got in that wreck) and it never broke down.I absolutely love the interior design,and the exterior is almost as nice.The drive and ride are just excellent!! It is so comfortable even going from Glendale to Palm Springs.It's performance is great,and it is pretty fun to drive. I highly recommend it.

2002 Highlander Limited

5
Rowdy Fred on 11/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My first Japanese-built vehicle and I love it. Having owned only North American-built vehicles in the past I am delighted by the overall quality of the Highlander. Add the convenience of AWD and car-like ride and handling and you have the perfect vehicle for use in Northern climes. Definitely not a serious off-roader, but certainly a nice compromise between van-like utility and 4WD functionality.

What a machine

4.9
jim on 11/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently bought a 2003 Highlander Limited edition and I can honestly say it is a Lexus with a Toyota badge. What a satisfying experience it is to drive this machine. Just Awesome. Jim

BEST SUV I've ever owned!!

5
Marianne on 11/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My last 2 SUVS were Jeep Grand Cherokees. I never thought I'd drive anything else. A friend recommended the Toyota Highlander and I went for a test drive. Not only did it drive MUCH better than the Jeep, the interior was more attractive, the seats folded down much easier and the price was WELL below that of Jeep Grand Cherokee. I also can't say enough about Toyota of Westport. They were incredible..helpful, knowledgeable and extremely consumer friendly. I LOVE my Highlander and I am delighted with it's performance.

High praise for the Highlander

4.9
Dr Pete on 11/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

In a word, a fantastic car! The ride is remarkably smooth, the V6 quick and powerful (there IS a big difference between the 4 and 6 cyl.), and the interior is intelligently designed, esthetically pleasing, and very comfortable. In 35 years of driving, absolutely our favorite! We can hardly wait to take it on our next road trip.

More than Expected

5
Rudo on 10/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just got the '03 Highlander today. We were astounded by the seat fabric and the interior materials, upscale look, better than CRV/Pilot LX. The engine is peepy and the acceleration is surprisingly good. The ride is very similar to our Camry. Cabin is quiet and roomy. Body roll is very noticeable when cornering though. So far we like it.

Well Designed

5
Jacob Foret on 10/26/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Well designed with plenty of room for passengers and cargo in the back. The ride is higher than a car, but not towering over all other traffic. You don't feel like an elephant maneuvering in a parking lot.

Wonderful Car!

5
me0554_29204 on 10/24/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great SUV. Roomy, confortable -- even after a long drive!

Glad I bought it!

5
TD on 10/12/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Smooth, quiet ride, good gas mileage for an SUV type vehicle.

Fun Machine !!

5
Vinod on 10/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Man, what a truck !! This is the best vehicle I have ever driven. Beats all those SUVs out there - ride, handling, comfort, performance. Minus the infamous 'rear-window-open' problem and the average music system, this vehicle is the best ! With JD Power's 'most appealing mid-size SUV' award, the highlander adds another feather to it's cap.

Excellent

5
Derun on 10/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, fun to drive

Fun Machine !!

5
vinod on 10/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Man, what a truck !! This is the best vehicle I have ever driven. Beats all those SUVs out there - ride, handling, comfort, performance. Minus the infamous 'rear-window-open' problem and the average music system, this vehicle is the best ! With JD Power's 'most appealing mid-size SUV' award, the highlander adds another feather to it's cap.

Loving it!

4.9
PAX5formerowner on 10/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was a BMW owner for the first time and had a 2001 X5 for 2 years. I loved that car . . . so I thought. Dependability NONE! Decided to go for the Toyotal quality and what I got was an SUV with a better ride than the X5 -much better and $12,000 less in sticker price. Saved a bunch of $$ going with the Highlander and thought I would sacrifice something, however the quality is superb to the BMW and the ride is wonderful. Roomy, fun to drive and love the leather package. Got the Limited with everything and glad I did. Wonderful vehicle and should have went with Toyota 2 years ago instead of the X5. Sacrificed nothing except more $$ in my pocket . . . .

LOVE IT!

5
petrn on 10/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I absolutely love the car! The ride is smooth and sure. I feel safe and comfortable when driving. The dealership was great although when I went to get the inspection sticker I was told an hour and a half wait was required. In fairness though, when I objected, the car was immediately inspected. I test drove many SUV's before deciding on the Highlander and I made the best choice by far.

NOt bad

4.5
mtc46jw on 09/29/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Have quite happy with the thing overall, much better than the American equivalents. Wanted to like the Jeep products but one test drive comparsion was enough to go with the "CATruck" Have not been sorry yet!

Great Product, but Poor Service

4.9
former BMW driver on 09/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I picked the Highlander and love it. I drove around in my brother's X5 for a month, but the Highlander with it's price makes it all better. As for Toyota Service.... Service guy at the dealership told me he deals with "reality while the sales guys tell me fantasy." The car is missing a part and had a scratch upon purhcase. They didn't tell me that I can only bring it in on Tuesdays to get the paint fixed. I've been to the service department 3 times now. I don't think I'll ever buy another car from Dublin Toyota again. But the product is excellent.

THE VERY BEST THING I'VE EVER BOUGHT

4.9
Sanya on 09/26/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've bought many things in my life, but NONE except my house have been as satifying as this truck!!! A friend of mine bought the lexus truck and is so mad at me for saving 10K and have the same feel and luxury of her lexus!!! I can't say enough about this SUV.... it is truly the best.

a quality vehicle

4.8
mon on 09/21/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We did our homework on SUV's over a period of months & time & time again,we kept returning to the Toyota highlander. With the quality built into this vehicle,we can see ourselves holding on to this vehicle for a good 6 or 7 years or possibly longer.In other words,you get what you pay for.

2001 highlander

5
jpmousel on 09/17/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

bought 2001 in feb 2001, not long after they came out. looking for 4wd to get around in the snow that drives like a car. v-6 engine has plenty of power too. easy to get in and out of without running boards, etc.

EXCELLENT VEHICLE

5
Zavic on 09/15/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am very happy with my new 2003 Highlander. I love the design, and the interior was engineered with convenience in mind. Cup holders are perfect, lots of storage area, holder for coins (very practical for tolls). Visibility in this vehicle is superb. The air conditioner is quite cold...just how I like it. It handles like a car, very smooth. The radio sounds great. I bought it for $23,300 plus tax, title, tag, and fees total $25,700. Q.O. Package with keyless entry, privacy glass, Roof Rack and Floor mats. I was able to find it in the color I wanted: Indigo!!! I love it. WAY TO GO TOYOTA!!!!!!!!!!

Comfort

4.8
CherryJose on 09/10/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

At first I thought the inside would be small but there's more headroom than if you sat inside a Grand Jeep Cherokee. There's also plenty of footroom and lots of storage space. It's a great value and it even decreased my insurance payments after owning a Nissan Maxima...overall great SUV that doesn't feel like an SUV at times.

Highlander Comfort

4.9
Mr P. on 09/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle has been solid. Great ride, solid feel, quality product by Toyota

1st 6 months

5
Lenny P on 09/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is one great car. I highly recommend. All minor details are thought through carefully. Only gripe is no power antenna unless Limited edition. Drives very much like a car but can handle off road bumps pretty well. Interior is quiet and comfortable. No defects at all to date and I have about 17K already. I had 4Runner before and Highlander actually has more usable room. Probably because it is a little wider. Acceleration is very good. Much better than 4Runner. A Great all-round vehicle as it was designed to be.



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