Model guide · 1st generation (XU20)
2001–2007 Toyota Highlander
The 2001–2007 Highlander is a car-based midsize SUV with a four-cylinder or V6, front-wheel drive or full-time 4WD, and from 2004 an available third row. The 2006–2007 Highlander Hybrid pairs a 3.3-liter V6 with electric motors for 268 hp.
155 hp
Horsepower, 2.4L four-cylinder
160 hp
Horsepower, 2.4L four-cylinder
155 hp
Horsepower, 2.4L four-cylinder (2006–2007 rating)
220 hp
Horsepower, 3.0L V6
230 hp
Horsepower, 3.3L V6
215 hp
Horsepower, 3.3L V6 (2006–2007 rating)
268 hp
Total system horsepower, Hybrid
3,000 lb
Max towing, 2.4L with Towing Prep Package
Engines and transmissions
Tap one to see only what applies to it.
Capability4
Four-cylinder or V6
A 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic was offered every year. The V6 was a 220 hp 3.0-liter through 2003, then a 3.3-liter with a 5-speed automatic, rated 230 hp for 2004–2005 and 215 hp for 2006–2007.
Full-time 4WD
This Highlander's 4WD sends power to all four wheels all the time, which helps on wet roads, snow and gravel. It is meant for pavement and light trails, with no low-range gear, and 4WD models sit 7.3 inches off the ground.
268 hp Hybrid Synergy Drive
The Highlander Hybrid pairs a 3.3-liter V6 with electric motors for 268 hp in total, through a continuously variable transmission. Models with 4WD-i add a separate electric motor that drives the rear wheels.
Tows up to 3,500 lb
With the factory Towing Prep Package, V6 models are rated to tow 3,500 lb and four-cylinder models 3,000 lb (2,000 and 1,500 lb without it). The 2006–2007 Hybrid is rated at 3,500 lb.
Safety2
ABS on every one, stability control from 2004
Every Highlander has anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and brake-force distribution. Stability and traction control were optional through 2003 and standard from 2004, and the Hybrid uses Toyota's VDIM version of the system.
Side and curtain airbags
Every Highlander has dual front airbags. Front seat side airbags and, from 2004, curtain airbags for the first two rows were optional on most models through 2006. For 2007 they became standard.
Space2
Fold-flat third row
This one's record lists the two-seat third row. It folds flat into the floor, has its own rear heater controls, suits children best, and leaves 10.5 cu ft of cargo space behind it.
About 81 cubic feet with the seats folded
2001–2003 models hold 38.5 cu ft behind the rear seat and 81.4 with it folded. From 2004 it is 39.7 behind the second row and 80.6 behind the front seats. The second row splits 60/40 and reclines.
Tech1
JBL premium audio
This one's record lists premium audio. In this generation Toyota's upgraded system was a JBL setup with eight speakers, standard on Limited models and optional on others.
Good to know3
V6 timing belt
The V6 drives its camshafts with a rubber timing belt, which has to be replaced on a schedule set by age and mileage. Ask us whether this car's records show the belt has been done.
Timing chain, no belt to replace
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder drives its camshafts with a chain, so there is no scheduled timing belt job. Regular oil changes help keep the chain healthy, so ask us what this car's service records show.
Safety recalls
Toyota recalled certain Highlanders for items such as a rear child-lock lever (2001–2004), a carpet cover that could catch the gas pedal (2004–2006) and the Hybrid's inverter. Repairs are free at Toyota dealers. Ask us for this car's recall history.
Specs are the manufacturer's figures for this generation. Equipment varies by trim and year, so ask us about anything that matters to you on a specific car.