Used 2004 Toyota Highlander SUV Consumer Reviews
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A Diamond in the Rough
Best car I've ever owned. This car is not indicative of the current problems that Toyota is having. A totally reliable automobile that offers everything you need in an SUV. I never had to take this car in for any major problems, and you can even hear the engine at idle.
Simply The Best
I did extensive research before buying my first SUV, and have not been disappointed in my selection. My Highlander has been extremely reliable, not one problem in almost 2 years and 42,000 miles. It's comfortable, roomy, drives like a car, and gets good gas mileage. I was worried about having sufficient power with the 4-cylinder engine, but it definitely delivers the power when needed. I can't imagine owning any other car - except maybe a Highlander Hybrid. I would recommend this SUV to anyone who is looking for the best value & ride for their money.
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,500114 mi away
- Base 4dr SUV w/3rd RowMSRP: $5,495201 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995320 mi away
Better than a Sienna
We briefly had a Sienna, which had factory defects. We traded over to the Highlander and are very happy with it! For a small family and a dog, it is just perfect. We don't need the huge interior of the Sienna, and like the sporty interior of the Highlander with the new fabric seats. It is a sturdy car that feels solid, but still has plenty of pickup. A perfect vehicle for both city and country driving.
An SUV I can live with
Please understand that I really hate SUVs, but my family needed a car that could hold 6-7. I have always thought that the Highlander was the best looking small SUV, but I didn't realize that it had a third seat that would allow it to hold our family. We sold our Eurovan and bought a dealer demo, and I think it's the best car I have ever owned. At 25K miles, it's tight, quiet, comfortable, and everything that I could ask for in a family car. We happened to buy the loaded model, although I would have been happy with any combination as long as it had the third row. We have had it off-road once in Tahoe, and it handled a very rutted, rocky climb with ease. Highly recommended.
Highland Rocks!
I am a Toyota fan and at my age never thought I would own an SUV. However, now that I am living in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains, my needs have changed. This SUV has it all.....in one week, I used the roof carrier to transport a surfboard (before moving from Florida), the third row seat to transport 6 passengers and the seats were down to transport boxes to my new home in SC.
Highlander - Best Buy
It took a while to pick a good mid-size AWD. Final choices were Subaru Forester XT Turbo, Legacy Outback V6 or Highlander V6. Forester has a comparable power, similar price and has about the same, above-average fuel consuption. Then, why not go with the "Best Buy" Highlander instead of "Recommended" Forester? Highlander has been very helpful in the first 6 - 8 inch snowfall. There were no problems getting around or getting the car parked on snowy parking lots. Every hard turn on a slippery road was handled by VSC and traction control without any problems. Very reliable, confident driving. Has a lot of useful hi-tech features plus full-time AWD!
Toyota Highlander
I looked at the Honda Pilot and the Highlander and felt this vehicle overall was a better vehicle. The car is a pleasure to drive and the 3.3 engine is smooth with very good pickup. Milage is about the same as the pontiac montana I owned. Very pleased with the purchase and vehicle
Love this car
Best car I have owned in years
Highlander
I absolutely love this car. It's not only comfortable, but it is fun to drive! I started off looking for a van but didn't feel that the vans were sporty enough or comfortable. Everyone who rides in it remarks how comfortable it is. That's the young and old alike. A few times my husband took it for his hunting trip and remarked how comfortable highway driving was. I was afraid I wouldn't get it back. This is by far the best car we have ever had.
Pumped about the New Highlander
We just purchased one of these cars. We could not be happier with our decision. We were looking for a 2002 or 2003 used Highlander, but they were scarce. That alone should say something about the quality. We are looking forward to many years with our new ride.
Love it!
I traded in a 2001 Volvo V70XC fully loaded--that has been nothing but one problem after another since my second year of ownership. (Had to have a new transmission after only 54000 miles!) I am very impressed with the comfortable ride, and ease of driveability of my new Highlander. I didn't get the Limited, because after owning the Volvo, I realized I didn't really use half the "bells and whistles" my Volvo included. I would advise going for the leather though. (I did) I was not impressed with the quality of the cloth seats offered in the Highlander. I look forward to many happy (trouble free) years of owning my new Highlander! :o)
I always bought AMERICAN vehicles
In my previous buying habits I only purchased American made vehicles out of loyalty. I wanted an SUV that got good gas milage, was comfortable to drive and was easier for my 82 y/o mother to get in and out of. No American vehicle matched those requirements, but all Japanese models did. I just picked the SUV I prefered and will never go back to just buying by loyaty again.
Love this SUV!!!
I am so impressed with the way the Highlander handles and rides like a car. The AWD is definitely the way to go. I feel very secure in the Highlander.
excellent
the only improvement i found from earlier models was the radio an on the steering wheel were radio controls
Typical Toyota, awesome!
Taught chasis, quiet engine with a nice v6 growl under full throttle, nimble handling, smooth powertrain you'd never guess it was AWD. Flawless build quality, very nice cloth seating fabric and excellent color selections. The center console is oddly designed and frustrating to use its underside storage shelf while driving.
EXCELLENT
SMOOTH RIDING SUV THAT DRIVES LIKE A CAR. OTHER THAN FUEL ECONOMY THE CAR IS A 10.
I love my Highlander
The Highlander has great pick up for a 4 cyl. especially when entering the highway or in a passing situation. It has handled very vell in snow/ice conditions. The front wheel drive seemed to have a smoother ride than the AWD during my test drive. More car like thank truck like. The interior is roomy. My only regret is that I did not get the optional 3rd row seat. The dashboard is easy to read and controls are "user friendly"
fun to drive
I absolutly love it easy to drive and comfortable
Awesome Vehicle!!!
It's been a two weeks that I've this Toyota. Can't say how much happy I'm with it. Had to decide between Van and SUV. I'm glad I chose Highlander.Gives same city milege my v6 Honda Accord gives.
So far it is GREAT!
I am a new owner of the HighlanderLTD, and have fallen in love with it! It's great looking, well designed inside and out! The ride is smooth, the controls easy to use, and it is great in the snow! The moon roof feature is great as is the general visibility.
highlander review
great vehicle all arouind!!!
Just Plain Happy
Not much to it -- just plain happy with this SUV. Runs well, is comfy, nice inside, not a huge thing.
2004 Highlander Review
I purchased this vehicle because I have a rather large family. I wanted something bigger than what I was already driving. This was exactly what I was looking for. The optional 3rd row seating works great for us. I unfold it when not in use. The CD/radio that came with the Highlander sounds great. I did test drive some other makes and models of SUV's. The Toyota Highlander was the one that I enjoyed driving the most. I like that seats in the 2nd and 3rd row are able to move forward and backwards. With the 3rd row seats folded down there is ample amount of cargo space. The gas mileage is excellent for this SUV. I opted for the 4 cyl. engine.
The most satifying car I've ever owned!
Used to admire Benz and owned from 190 to S class. All have more problems than this silky smooth Highlander. Wife's car and she loves it. Ride is smoother than my curret Lexus with 2000 miles on it. Hard to believe. 10,000 miles and no problem whatsoever so far. Absolute buy!!
Happy with the Highlander
We were replacing our Honda Odyssey (the older version) and looking for a vehicle that handled in a similar fashion.The Highlander met all our criteria.It looks great,gets very good milage and fits all needs!
Limited Version
A very comfortable riding vehicle. To me, the limited package is worth the extra coin. Smooth power on demand. The extra gear in the tranny is a driver's delight. My MPG is close to 20. Not great but adequate. No gripes here!
2004 is a greatly improved
I owned a 2001 Highlander Fwd 6 cylinder. Liked the car but not the engine. The 2004 is WONDERFUL! I can't believe the quality of the drive has improved so much. The handling is better and the third row seat is great. My six foot tall son sat in the third row seat and said it was comfortable. The only thing I don't like is the gas mileage is not as good as my previous Highlander.
The SUV that rides/drives like a car
This is the one & only SUV that I have driven/experienced that rides smooth like a car. I feel very safe & comfortable driving this vehicle. I never thought a SUV was capable of providing the comfort of a car ride. It is perfect for people looking for the size of a larger vehicle, but not willing to trade the comfort of a smooth ride. The seats are also very comfortable for travel. I never thought I owuld say this about a vehicle but "I Love this Highlander."
After testing many others...
Highlander! I own my own business and could have gotten a big writeoff with a heavier SUV, but my conscious wouldn't allow me to buy a gas guzzler on the taxpayers bill. I took home and drove many SUV's, some over a weekend. The Pilot was so generic and bland inside, and the driving experience was blah, the Envoy was classy but a gas guzzler. No other SUV's in the low 30's are as well rounded as the Highlander. It's such a well made truck. I used to have a $50k GMC Envoy and this is as plush as that, but better in many other areas. This is my first Japanese car, and I think I'll stick with Toyotas from now on...
We love our Highlander
We bought our Highlander New Years Eve, and am totally in love with it. It drives like a dream.
Toyota Highlander Owner
I shopped for 6 months before I made my decision on the Hilander. I am a girl Scout leaer and I camp a lot wth my girls and my family and I absolutely loves this vehical. I find it very reliable, easy to drice, and safety is the number 1 factor whay I purchased this SUV. I would recommend it to any one who wants luxury performance with out a luxury price.
Drive like a car
It has been 3 weeks since I owned it. Like it like it like it! Pervously owned a Collora with 200,000 miles on it. One of the reason why I went back to choose a Toyota again (traded in). Since it is Camry based SUV, it really drive like a car. I chose 4x2 because it came with VSC (vehicle Stability Control) and snow traction control. Great for people who do not do much off- road driving.
Quality/Reliability...but...
Went for the Toyo quality along with better gas milage. Sticker says 18 mpg city. I get 17 with 80% fwy driving. If you don't get on the fwy at all the mpg is around 14 mpg. (Maybe I should change my driving habits). If you punch it to get through a yellow light, the tranny either whines or hesitates and you run the red - same when trying to pass. This car is made for SHORT people, Had to adjust steering wheel all the way up to see the speedo. Not comfortable for tall person. Light cloth interior sucks (I'm a mechanic)Slanted dash collects hair from dog in the cd. For 30 grand its missing something like at least outside temp. Quality isn'
04 Highlander Limited
Only have this vehicle a week. First impressions are great. Quality is top notch. Easy to drive, sits high but very easy to get into. Very quiet on the road. Feels tight and corners flat. Engine is too new to get on it, but you can feel the power is there.Braking is typical Toyota. No unusual surprises. Just a very good vehicle.
THIS IS MY SECOND ONE
I have found this vehicle to be very reliable and a pleasure to drive. This is my second one, and have had no mechanical or other problems.
An Excellent car.
We have 7,000 miles on this vehicle, and our friends all rave for its beauty, we love the gas mileage, comfort and looks of this car. Think we made a very good choice.
A great vehicle
Traded 2004 Avalon for this SUV. Smart move for me.
Fun to drive carlike ride suv
My 2004 Toyota Highlander 4cyl fwd is excellent, an suv with a car like ride, smooth transmission and an exceptional pick up and it can stop on a dime.Very economical and reliable transportation. However, it is not as comfortable and luxurious as a Grand Cherokee, I'd recomend the V6 engine with 4 wd and you won't be disappointed.
Good buy
This car is an excellent buy. I bought it fully loaded forv $31,000. It has a great stero and the best ride.
Love my highlander!
The comfort riding in both the front & rear seats is great! I love the feature of the back seats reclining & having lots of leg room. Also, good mileage and handling for a midsize suv---drives like a car, not a truck!
4 TOYOTA'S & NOW A SUV & I LOVE IT!!!!!!
Toyota's have been my safety net, they are safe and that is why I buy them. Ask your insurance company. My father started me out in the family Toyota in 1971. Enjoy LLL
Best new car I have owned
Not the cheapest SUV around but as far as I can determine, the best value. Prior to this car I wouln't look twice at an SUV--they were all disguised trucks and rode that way to prove my point. It is roomy, rides well and is not a problem to park. Three of my friends have the same car and really are totally pleased.
Toyota has done it again!
Highlander has an excellent ride and is also comfortable. Interior is well laid out and easy to use. It is full of safety features and fuel economy is good for this type of vehicle. Easy to get in and out of and as usual quality shows everywhere.
Great SUV
This SUV has won my heart over any vehicle I have ever owned. The smooth, quiet ride and handling are very impressive. It's comfortable, roomy, easy to drive. Does not have that "truck" feel most SUV's have. Provides a large amount of cargo space and the seats fold down with ease. The AWD works unbelievably well in slippery/snowy conditions. Solid vehicle. The standard VSC (vehicle stability control) and traction control combined with the ABS and EBD (electronic brake force distribution) are wonderful features!
Set your sights to the Highlands
Just bought the Highlander (Limited) after researching and test driving the competitors. The only vehicle that came close in this price range was the LL Bean OutBack by Subaru. Almmost made a deal on the Subaru but it fell short on the interior room. The Highlander is Sleek and efficient and not so jazzed up to make you feel or look like your going to Las Vegas with a new Leisure suit on. This highlander is a blend of comfort, good looks, and runs like a wild Goose with the 3.3 engine,and five speed automatic trans. So far I cannot find one negative feature or discomfort. The Highlander is strong, quiet and a smooth wagon.
Super SUV
This is one of a car. I tested before the Pilot and I found the interior to be rather unattractive. In Highlander you feel good, the engine has confidence, controls are well designed, the finishes are perfect and you have the feeling of being in a very refined wagon.
It's a Great SUV!
This SUV was a great alternative to the more expensive Lexus 3000X model. This SUV is very dependable and is a comfortable drive for lengthy distances.
Vehicle is enjoyable!
Owning a Highlander is, so far, a good experience (at 2,500 miles). The inside contour is pleasing, and the vehicle seems to be very safety oriented. Everything about the design seems to be built with the consumer in mind. It's fun to drive, handles very well, and is fairly quiet.
Excellent Crossover
This has been a joy to drive. handles very well, much better than I expect from SUVs
2004 Highlander - Fun To Drive
For an SUV, the 2004 Toyota Highlander turned out to be an eye-opening experience. Fun to drive, comfortable, not at all like a truck. The new 3rd seat, while small, is hidden away until needed for two more kids (no adults need apply for this seat). The Highlander turns on a dime and, in fact, has a tighter turning circle than my new Maxima. In short, the amazing thing about the Highlander is that it handles like a Camry but carries people and cargo like a mid-size SUV.