Every Toyota Highlander Generation Ranked Worst To Best – SlashGear

The best Toyota Highlanders are the third-gen (2014 to 2019) and the fourth generation (2020). The third-gen Highlander is 2.7 inches longer and half an inch wider than the second-gen, giving more room inside. It had a potent 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and a new eight-speed automatic transmission. It still rides on a modified K platform like its predecessors.

The fourth-gen rides on a stiffer TNGA-K platform and has grown in length, width, and wheelbase versus the third-gen. It also debuted an appealing new look. However, Toyota got rid of the V6 for a torquier turbocharged four-banger. The smaller engine has less horsepower despite having more low and mid-end torque, and it pays dividends: The fuel economy is a combined 24 mpg, making it among the most fuel-efficient three-row crossovers.

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Meanwhile, the second-gen Highlander that went on sale from 2008 to 2013 is the Goldilocks of the group. It’s not as large as the third and fourth-gen models, but it’s significantly longer and wider than the first-gen Highlander while getting a three-inch extended wheelbase. 2009 saw the return of Toyota’s 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and a six-speed automatic gearbox, but the 270-horsepower V6 and 208-horsepower V6 hybrid remain available.

For those keeping score at home, that’s first-gen in last place, followed by second, fourth, and leaving the third generation as the best.