Tech - News
Ranking Every Toyota Highlander Generation
By ALVIN REYES
Since its debut, the Highlander has undergone many changes from its original model, leaving some to wonder how the iterations of the SUV stack up against each other.
4. Gen 1
While the first-generation Highlanders that sold from 2001 to 2007 were far from poor vehicles, they did have some drawbacks compared to later models.
They aren’t as roomy as the newer Highlanders and didn’t receive the 3.3 liter V6 engine that gives the car extra power until 2004, halfway through the model’s life.
3. Gen 2
The second generation that went on sale from 2008 to 2013 improved the length and width of the Highlander while getting a three-inch extended wheelbase.
Toyota returned to the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower in 2009, but the 270-horsepower V6 and 208-horsepower V6 hybrid remain available.
2. Gen 4
The fourth generation model from 2020 is the biggest of the bunch and rides on a stiff TNGA-K platform. Toyota got rid of the V6 for a torquier turbocharged four-banger.
The smaller engine has less horsepower with more low and mid-end torque, giving the fourth-gen a 24 mpg fuel economy. It is among the most fuel-efficient three-row crossovers.
1. Gen 3
The third generation was produced from 2014 to 2019. It is 2.7 inches longer and half an inch wider than the second-gen, giving more room inside.
It has a potent 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It still rides on a modified K platform like its predecessors.