Toyota Highlander

Highlander in brief

The Highlander has been in production since 2000 and is currently in its fourth generation. It's a three-row SUV built on the same platform as the Toyota Camry but significantly larger: the third row is best suited for kids or teens, and folding it down reveals a spacious boot.

The Highlander is praised for Toyota's reputation for reliability, its spacious interior, and smooth, comfortable ride. Since most cars in Lithuania come from the US, the selection is quite broad, but their histories vary greatly — from well-maintained to those rebuilt after serious accidents or floods.

XU50 and XU70 — what's the difference

The third generation (XU50, 2013–2019) is the most popular among used cars. In 2016, it was refreshed (2017 model year): the front was redesigned, a newer 3.5 V6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission was introduced, and the standard equipment list included more safety systems (Toyota Safety Sense).

The fourth generation (XU70, from late 2019, 2020 model year) is built on the TNGA-K platform: it's more modern, slightly longer, and the hybrid version has become significantly more economical. In Europe, it is officially sold only in this generation and only with a hybrid transmission. In the US versions, from the 2023 model year, the V6 engine has been replaced by a 2.4-litre turbocharged unit, and the infotainment system has received a larger screen.

Earlier generations (XU20 and XU40) are still encountered, but they usually have very high mileage, so they should be evaluated primarily based on their technical condition rather than their features.

Engines and transmissions

The XU50 generation most commonly features a 3.5 V6 petrol engine (around 270–295 hp) with either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Before the update, it was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and after the update, with an 8-speed automatic. The cheapest US versions also had a 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine, while the hybrid version featured a 3.5 V6 with electric motors and a continuously variable transmission.

The XU70 generation US versions come with a 3.5 V6 (around 295 hp, up to the 2022 model year) or a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine (around 265 hp, from the 2023 model year), both with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Highlander Hybrid has a 2.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors (combined power around 245 hp) and a continuously variable transmission; in Europe, it always comes with AWD all-wheel drive, where the rear wheels are driven by a separate electric motor.

The hybrid uses considerably less fuel in the city than the V6, making it the most rational choice for many buyers. Petrol versions are praised for their higher towing capacity, while the 2.4-litre turbo engine is still relatively new, so there's less long-term experience with it.

What to check when buying a used Highlander

Be sure to check the history of a US-imported car via its VIN: whether it was written off after an accident, flood or hail, and what its mileage was during the auction. Inspect for moisture and rust under the carpets, check that the body panel gaps are even, and ensure there are no airbag warning lights on — post-auction repairs aren't always up to scratch.

US-spec cars often need their lighting adapted for Lithuania (e.g., turn signals), and sometimes the radio and multimedia settings too; ask if this has already been done. Check cars from northern states, where roads are salted in winter, from underneath — especially the underbody, suspension parts and brake pipes.

For hybrids, ask to check the hybrid battery's condition and inspect the battery cooling air vents — they shouldn't be clogged. For petrol cars, check the service history and oil change frequency, and during the test drive, ensure the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly.

Trims

In Lithuania, you'll most often encounter the US-market trims; the Highlander Hybrid officially sold in Europe had trims tailored to each country. Equipment varies by year.

XU70 generation trim comparison

For most buyers, the best choice is the XLE or Limited, especially with the hybrid powertrain. The Platinum is worth considering for its features, but the history and condition of an imported car from the US are always more important than the trim level.

Frequently asked questions