Short answer
The 2019 Toyota Highlander V6 is our starting point for families wanting the older generation with its updated powertrain and standard Toyota Safety Sense P. It combines three-row seating with a conventional petrol engine.
- Market
- United States
- Price scope
- Compare local asking prices for the same engine, trim and condition
- Models
- 2017, 2019 and 2022
- Entries
- 3
Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Highlander at a Glance
| Rank | Name | Editorial choice | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 |  | First choice for the older V6 | US model year 2019 |
| 02 |  | First choice for fuel economy | US model year 2022 |
| 03 | | Earlier facelift alternative | US model year 2017 |
No entries match your search.
Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Highlander: Entry Details
2019 Toyota Highlander V6
US model year 2019 · First choice for the older V6Late third-generation equipment combines the revised V6, eight-speed automatic and standard Safety Sense P. Late third-generation equipment combines the revised V6, eight-speed automatic and standard Safety Sense P.
- Generation
- Third generation
- Priority
- Petrol V6 and family equipment
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Revised V6 and eight-speed automatic
- Standard Safety Sense P
Things to consider
- Older-generation interior
- Confirm the actual engine and seat layout
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid FWD
US model year 2022 · First choice for fuel economyThe newer four-cylinder hybrid has an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined rating in front-wheel-drive form. The newer four-cylinder hybrid has an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined rating in front-wheel-drive form.
- Generation
- Fourth generation
- Priority
- 36 mpg combined, EPA estimated
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- 36 mpg combined EPA estimate in FWD form
- Newer hybrid layout
Things to consider
- FWD figure does not cover every hybrid configuration
- Hybrid inspection and maintenance records matter
2017 Toyota Highlander V6
US model year 2017 · Earlier facelift alternativeToyota introduced the revised V6 powertrain and standard Safety Sense P together in the facelifted model. Toyota introduced the revised V6 powertrain and standard Safety Sense P together in the facelifted model.
- Generation
- Third generation
- Priority
- Safety and powertrain update
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Standard Safety Sense P update
- Revised V6 powertrain
Things to consider
- Age and maintenance need attention
- Do not substitute the base four-cylinder specification
Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Highlander: Analysis
Toyota Highlander V6 Model Years and Equipment
Toyota’s 2019 Highlander retained the direct-injection V6 and eight-speed automatic introduced with the generation’s facelift. Standard Toyota Safety Sense P includes automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Choosing the V6 avoids confusing it with the entry four-cylinder specification or the different hybrid drivetrain.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Fuel Economy
The 2022 Highlander Hybrid uses a four-cylinder engine and electric assistance rather than the older V6 hybrid arrangement. Toyota publishes an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined for the front-wheel-drive hybrid. For a family making repeated school runs and errands, that drivetrain can be more useful than simply seeking a newer V6 model year.
2017 Highlander Engine and Safety Updates
The 2017 V6 matters because Toyota introduced both its revised engine and standard Safety Sense P then. An older Highlander may look similar but have different equipment. Inspect second-row seat configuration, tyre condition and service records on the actual car. Toyota’s brand history covers a much broader lineup than this family SUV.
Families considering an older premium saloon alongside the Highlander can compare Audi A6 versions, where engine scope and optional assistance equipment change the shopping priorities.
Our verdict
Our Verdict
Start with the 2019 V6 for late third-generation equipment. Move the 2022 Hybrid FWD to the top of the shopping list when everyday fuel economy is the main priority.
Strengths
- Clear drivetrain choices for different family needs
- Manufacturer brochures identify the equipment changes
Things to consider
- Individual service history decides the purchase
- No nationwide used-price assumption
FAQ: Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Highlander
Which used Highlander year is the starting point?
The 2019 V6 is our first choice for the older generation’s updated equipment. The 2022 Hybrid FWD suits buyers who prioritise fuel economy.
When did Highlander get standard Toyota Safety Sense P?
Toyota made it standard on the 2017 Highlander. The package includes pre-collision assistance, adaptive cruise control, lane departure assistance and automatic high beams.
Does the 2022 hybrid have a V6?
No. It uses a four-cylinder petrol engine with hybrid assistance. The preceding generation’s Highlander Hybrid used a V6.
What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Hybrid FWD?
Toyota’s brochure lists 36 mpg combined, EPA estimated. That figure refers to the front-wheel-drive hybrid specification.
Do all 2019 Highlanders have the same engine?
No. The petrol lineup included a four-cylinder entry model as well as the V6, and the hybrid had its own drivetrain. Check the exact specification.
Sources & methodology
Editorial US-market choices based on manufacturer-documented equipment and drivetrain differences, not year-by-year failure rates. The quoted hybrid economy is EPA estimated for FWD. Purchase depends on service records, inspection and VIN recall checks.
Maintained by Artsiom Dusau, a software engineer and BMW 4 Series owner. Editorial policy
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