Best Toyota Highlander Years to Buy Used in Canada

The Toyota Highlander has earned its place as one of Canada’s best midsize SUVs. With a smooth ride, versatile interior, strong safety scores, and available all-wheel drive, it’s a go-to choice for families and commuters who want comfort and confidence in all four seasons.

Whether you're looking for a gas or hybrid model, the Highlander delivers the kind of long-term dependability Toyota is known for—often lasting well beyond 300,000 kilometres when properly maintained.

But not every model year offers the same value. Some stand out for their excellent reliability, updated tech, or improved ride quality, while others may come with early design quirks or mechanical issues.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the best Toyota Highlander years to buy used in Canada, organized by generation. Whether you're shopping for a budget-friendly option or a near-new SUV with all the features, we’ll help you find the Highlander that fits your needs.

What Makes a Great Used Highlander?

The best Highlander years offer more than just Toyota's reputation for dependability—they strike the right balance between performance, comfort, safety, and value. Here’s what to look for:

• Excellent long-term reliability: The top years have fewer reports of drivetrain issues, electronic faults, or expensive repairs.
• Strong safety scores: Look for models that earned high marks in crash tests and include key features like stability control, side airbags, and later, Toyota Safety Sense.
• Winter readiness: Canadian drivers benefit from all-wheel drive, heated seats, and robust rust protection—features more common in newer or higher-trim models.
• Affordable maintenance: Certain years and trims offer lower running costs due to fewer recalls, simpler powertrains, and better parts availability.
• Comfort and tech upgrades: Great used Highlanders include thoughtful interior features, good infotainment, and useful extras like tri-zone climate and power liftgates.

1st Generation (2001–2007)

Recommended Years: 2006–2007

The original Highlander helped set the standard for car-based crossovers, offering a smooth ride, decent fuel economy, and available all-wheel drive in a package that was easier to drive than a traditional SUV. While early years had some transmission and minor engine complaints, the final two years of the generation are considered the most reliable.

Why It’s a Good Pick:

• Toyota addressed earlier transmission concerns by 2006
• Optional third row in later trims adds family-friendly flexibility
• Strong V6 performance with proven long-term durability

Common Features:

• 2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.3L V6 engine
• Available AWD, 4-speed automatic
• Optional leather, sunroof, and third-row seating on Limited trims

Ideal For:

Budget-conscious buyers who want a basic but dependable winter-capable SUV with plenty of life left—great for students, new drivers, or second-car households.

2nd Generation (2008–2013)

Recommended Years: 2011–2013

Toyota redesigned the Highlander for its second generation, making it larger, safer, and more family-focused. It added more interior space, a smoother ride, and available advanced features. However, earlier models (2008–2010) were more prone to oil leaks and engine-related service bulletins. The 2011 refresh brought improved reliability and better tech.

Why It’s a Good Pick:

• 2011 refresh improved VVT-i system reliability and interior materials
• Strong safety ratings and available third-row seating
• 3.5L V6 engine is a proven workhorse for towing and long-distance driving

Common Features:

• 2.7L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6 engine
• Available AWD, 5- or 6-speed automatic
• Touchscreen audio, optional backup camera, rear climate control

Ideal For:

Families needing space for kids and cargo, or anyone looking for a reliable midsize SUV with a strong engine and a reputation for lasting well past 300,000 km.

3rd Generation (2014–2019)

Recommended Years: 2017–2019

The third-generation Highlander introduced a more modern design, better cabin insulation, and upgraded infotainment. While early 2014–2016 models experienced some transmission hesitation and touchscreen quirks, the 2017 refresh addressed these issues and added a more powerful, efficient V6 with an 8-speed automatic.

Why It’s a Good Pick:

• Updated V6 and transmission combo in 2017 improves driving smoothness and fuel economy
• Toyota Safety Sense added standard on 2017+ models
• Fewer complaints about drivetrain and electronics post-refresh

Common Features:

• 3.5L V6 or hybrid 3.5L V6/eCVT setup
• 8-speed automatic (2017+), available AWD
• Apple CarPlay (added in 2019), advanced safety features, 8-passenger seating in most trims

Ideal For:

Families and commuters looking for a quiet, comfortable SUV with excellent safety, strong resale value, and low long-term maintenance.

4th Generation (2020–Present)

Recommended Years: 2021–2023

The current-generation Highlander builds on everything that made earlier models successful, adding a sleeker design, improved fuel efficiency, and an upgraded infotainment system. While the 2020 launch year introduced welcome changes, it also came with a few early bugs—especially with the touchscreen and HVAC system. These issues were largely resolved by 2021, making newer models a safer pick.

Why It’s a Good Pick:

• Early tech bugs ironed out by 2021
• Hybrid model offers excellent fuel economy for a midsize SUV
• Updated interior layout, infotainment, and ride quality

Common Features:

• 3.5L V6 or 2.5L hybrid powertrain (with eCVT)
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, available AWD across trims
• Larger touchscreen (8–12.3 inches), wireless smartphone integration, power liftgate

Ideal For:

Tech-focused buyers, growing families, or anyone who wants a near-new Highlander with warranty coverage, excellent efficiency, and the latest comfort and safety features.

Common Toyota Highlander Problems to Watch For

While the Highlander has an excellent reputation for reliability, certain model years have had recurring issues worth noting. Here are the most common problems to look out for when buying used:

• Oil leaks and VVT-i issues (2008–2010): Some V6 models developed leaks at the timing cover or valve cover gaskets, occasionally leading to oil loss or burning smells.
• Transmission hesitation (2014–2016): The early 6-speed automatic paired with the 3.5L V6 sometimes felt sluggish or clunky, especially during low-speed driving or gear changes.
• Touchscreen freezing (2020 models): First-year bugs with the redesigned infotainment system occasionally caused lag or full screen lockups.
• HVAC control glitches: Found in some 2020–2021 models, where fan speed or dual-zone controls wouldn’t respond properly—usually fixed with software updates.
• Rust on older models (2001–2007): While not as common as on trucks, older Highlanders can develop rust on rear wheel wells, tailgates, and the undercarriage—especially in snowy regions.

Knowing these trouble spots can help you ask the right questions and spot red flags before you buy.

What to Look for in a Used Highlander

Whether you’re buying a 2007 Highlander or a 2023 hybrid, the right inspection makes all the difference. Here’s what to check before making your purchase:

• Service history: Look for records showing regular oil changes, transmission fluid service, and timing component replacements (especially on older V6 models).
• Brake and suspension condition: Highlanders are heavy vehicles, so worn shocks, rotors, or sway bars are common if not maintained properly.
• Infotainment and electronics: Test the touchscreen, Bluetooth, backup camera, and all climate controls—particularly in 2014+ and 2020+ models where bugs were more common.
• Rust check (2001–2010): Inspect the tailgate, underbody, and wheel wells for signs of corrosion—especially in Ontario, Quebec, or Atlantic Canada.
• Hybrid system health: On hybrid models, confirm that the battery has been inspected or replaced. Toyota’s hybrid components are very reliable but should still be checked by a technician.
• AWD function: Take it for a test drive in low-traction conditions if possible. Listen for grinding or hesitation when cornering at low speeds.

A CARFAX report and a full pre-purchase inspection can give you peace of mind—especially when shopping for an older or higher-mileage model.

Choosing the Best Highlander for Your Needs

The Toyota Highlander is versatile enough to meet a wide range of needs—but some model years are better suited to certain lifestyles than others. Here’s how to choose based on your priorities:

• Best for budget buyers: The 2006–2007 Highlander offers simple, reliable performance with optional AWD and seating for up to seven—perfect for first-time SUV owners or growing families on a budget.
• Best for family hauling: The 2011–2013 models combine a spacious interior with a proven V6 and better safety ratings—ideal for parents looking for everyday reliability.
• Best for long-distance commuters: The 2017–2019 Highlander features a refined ride, updated tech, and strong fuel efficiency—perfect for highway-heavy driving or regular road trips.
• Best for tech lovers: The 2021–2023 Highlander adds wireless smartphone integration, large touchscreens, and advanced driver aids—ideal for buyers who want modern features without the new-car price tag.
• Best for fuel savings: Hybrid Highlanders from 2021 onward deliver impressive fuel economy with minimal compromises—great for eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to switch to a plug-in.

No matter your lifestyle, a clean service history and thorough inspection are just as important as the model year itself. A well-maintained Highlander can easily run well past 300,000 km with minimal headaches.

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Finding the Right Highlander for the Long Haul

The Toyota Highlander has proven time and again that it’s one of the most dependable, family-friendly SUVs in Canada. With spacious seating, available AWD, and a track record for lasting well beyond 300,000 km, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking for long-term value.

That said, not all Highlanders are created equal. Stick to proven years like 2006–2007, 2011–2013, 2017–2019, or 2021–2023 to get the best mix of reliability, safety, and comfort. And no matter which year you choose, always check for service history, confirm recall work, and have it inspected before buying.

Want to make sure you’re not looking at a problem year? Check out our full guide to the Toyota Highlander Years to Avoid to see which models might bring more hassle than they’re worth.

Ready to find a Highlander that fits your life?
Browse Clutch’s Toyota Highlander inventory today. Every SUV is fully inspected, includes a free CARFAX report, and comes with a 10-day money-back guarantee—so you can shop with confidence.

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