2009 Toyota Highlander Review
Price Estimate: $2,947 - $4,603





+143
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful yet fuel-efficient V6, easy to maneuver for its size, user-friendly cabin design with reconfigurable second-row seats and a fully usable third row.
Cons
- Third-row seat folds as a single unit rather than in 50/50 sections.
What’s new
Toyota offers a four-cylinder version of the Highlander for 2009, but only on the base two-wheel-drive version of this popular crossover.
Edmunds says
With plenty of room, power and features, the 2009 Toyota Highlander is optimized for family use. If you're shopping for a midsize crossover SUV, make sure you try this Toyota.
For sale near Boydton, VA
142 listings
- Photos not available$9,100good price$1,267 below market
- 173,980 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 7 Seats, 17 City / 23 Hwy MPG
- Haskins Automotive (55 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Leather Seats
- Third-row seating
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Blairs, VA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
19 Combined MPG (17 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTEES42A992120194
Stock: 120194
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-02-2025 - $3,995fair price$192 below market
- 278,034 miles
- 2 accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 20 City / 27 Hwy MPG
- Motley's Auto World (57 mi away)
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Rear Bench Seats
- Stability Control
- Aux Audio Inputs
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Danville, VA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (20 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTEDA41A092001840
Stock: 001840
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 05-05-2025
Vehicle overview
Boasting midsize SUV versatility without the attendant poor fuel mileage and trucklike handling and ride, the 2009 Toyota Highlander exemplifies the virtues of a now-flourishing vehicle breed -- the crossover SUV. When the first-generation Highlander debuted nearly a decade ago, it was a trailblazer in this segment, demonstrating that a vehicle could look and function like an SUV without driving like one. Today, the second-generation Highlander is in its sophomore year of production, and it's just one of many highly competent crossovers on the market. It remains one of the best, though, thanks to its flexible and ergonomically sound interior, secure handling and forceful yet frugal V6.
For 2009, the Toyota Highlander stands pat with the exception of a new four-cylinder version being offered in base two-wheel-drive trim. As such, most new Highlanders will still be fitted with Toyota's superb 3.5-liter V6 that is doubly blessed with impressive output (270 horsepower) and higher-than-average fuel economy. Inside, the Highlander continues to offer useful features such as Center Stow, which allows easy stowage of the center section of the 40/20/40 second-row bench seat, thus providing walk-through access to the third row.
As good as it is, the Highlander now competes in a segment that is awash with many strong candidates. General Motors' Lambda-platform quadruplets (Buick Enclave/Chevrolet Traverse/GMC Acadia/Saturn Outlook), Hyundai's Veracruz and Mazda's CX-9 are all excellent choices. The Highlander isn't quite as cavernous inside as the GM crossovers, so it might not be the best choice for bigger families. However, if you don't have five kids who could stand in for the New England Patriots' defensive line, and you find the Toyota's all-around versatility appealing, the refined and relatively economical 2009 Toyota Highlander is hard to top.
Performance & mpg
Every 2009 Toyota Highlander except the base front-wheel-drive version comes with a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 270 hp and 248 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on all but the base four-cylinder model. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard, and regular 87-octane fuel is all that's required. The new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is not exactly a slouch, cranking out 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and it's matched to a six-speed automatic to optimize performance and fuel economy. At our test track, a Highlander Limited V6 AWD sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest vehicles in its segment. Properly equipped, the V6-powered Highlander can tow 5,000 pounds, a respectable figure for this segment.
With the V6, the front-drive Highlander's fuel mileage stands at 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined; an AWD V6 version rates 1 mpg less across the board. As of this writing, estimates for the four-cylinder Highlander were not yet available.
Safety
All expected safety equipment is standard on the Toyota Highlander, including antilock disc brakes, stability control and hill-start assist (which keeps the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on uphill grades). All-wheel-drive models come with a downhill assist feature to enable slow, controlled descents down snow-covered driveways. Airbag coverage includes front-seat side airbags, three-row side curtain airbags and a driver-side knee airbag.
In government crash tests, the 2009 Toyota Highlander scored five stars (the highest possible) for the driver and four for the passenger in frontal impacts and five stars for side impacts. In frontal offset crash testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Highlander earned the top rating of "Good."
Driving
Although the current Highlander is considerably larger and heavier than the previous generation, it's still more pleasant to drive than most other midsize SUVs, even those of the crossover variety. Visibility is excellent all around, and the steering is light enough to make the 2009 Toyota Highlander easy to maneuver in tight spaces yet adequately precise while cornering. The V6 is a highlight, delivering strong, smooth acceleration in any situation. The ride quality leans toward the soft side, even with the Sport trim level, but that's to be expected in a family-oriented crossover.
Interior
Larger adults will find the Highlander's interior more accommodating than in the previous generation, as first- and second-row room have grown noticeably in all directions. At the same time, the control layout remains simple and easy to understand, and the quality of the interior materials is high.
The Highlander's third-row legroom falls short of what's available from competing large crossover SUVs, but getting into the third row is much easier, thanks to the second-row seats' improved fold-and-slide mechanisms. There's also a specialized center section of the 40/20/40 second-row bench seat that provides walk-through access to the third row. The middle "20" section simply slides into its own cubby under the front seat center console.
Cargo space is scant when all three rows are in use, measuring just over 10 cubic feet. Folding the third row yields 42 cubes, though, and with the second row down, there's a healthy 95.4 cubic feet -- still short of the Mazda and GM crossovers, but otherwise a good figure for this class. Our only complaint is that the third-row seat folds as a single piece rather than offering a 50/50 split, thus limiting your options when you have a mix of passengers and cargo to carry.
2009 Toyota Highlander models
The 2009 Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV with seven-passenger capacity. Toyota sells it in three trim levels -- base, Sport and Limited -- all of which are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The base version comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, a fold-flat third-row seat (which can be deleted for a credit), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, a CD stereo with an auxiliary input jack and full power accessories. Stepping up to the Sport provides 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, automatic headlights, foglights, a flip-up rear hatch window, a 3.5-inch information display screen, a back-up camera, an in-dash CD changer (with MP3/WMA capability), upgraded seat fabric, a power driver seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and one-touch folding capability for the second-row seats.
Like the Sport, the Highlander Limited wears 19-inch wheels but goes with softer suspension tuning and adds more luxury in the form of power-folding and heated outside mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, a power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and ignition and wood-grain interior trim.
Options include a rear air-conditioner for base and Sport models, automatic rear climate control for Limited models, a power sunroof, a power liftgate, heated front seats, a rear DVD entertainment system and towing preparation. The premium-grade JBL sound system supplies Bluetooth connectivity and increases the speaker count from six to nine, but its in-dash changer maxes out at four CDs instead of the usual six. The available navigation system can only be ordered in conjunction with the JBL audio upgrade.

The Toyota 4Runner, Land Cruiser and Tacoma Turned Hell's Revenge Into a Piece of Cake

2026 Toyota RAV4: Five Things You Need to Know

2026 Toyota RAV4 Revealed: America's Best-Selling Car Goes Hybrid-Only

2026 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2025 Hyundai Tucson: Plug-in Hybrids Compared
Compare 2009 Toyota Highlander trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$169/mo for Highlander Base
Highlander Base
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#6 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$458/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
0.85x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
11.2%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Toyota Highlander Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Cannot go wrong with Highlander!
4.88 out of 5 starsSavvy Buyer, 05/05/2010
2009 Toyota Highlander 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
After having researched extensively and test-driven Honda Pilot, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Edge, and the new Equinox, I repeatedly returned to Highlander and bought one a few weeks ago. I cannot express how impressed I am with Highlander! The ride is extraordinarily comfortable, quite and smooth. The interior is extremely roomy, well-designed and functional. The second row is … exceptional. If you need the third row it is there and not as a joke! If you do not use it just fold it and you have plenty of cargo room! I must also compliment the instant V6 power and above average fuel economy, which is almost the same as 2007 Passat I traded in! It is also very family friendly if you have children
Best in Class!
5 out of 5 starsPaul, 06/18/2010
2009 Toyota Highlander Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
Drove and researched everything. Highlander is #1. The Honda Pilot doesn't handle well, the Pathfinder is way too cramped inside, and the Traverse and Acadia are over 40k with options, not worth $. The Highlander is so super quiet, the transmission is ultra smooth. 270 horses pull quickly and I can still get 25 mpg. Very comfortable driving position with nicely laid out high quality … controls. Second row captains chairs are like traveling first class. Third row is cramped and only good for a quick trip. Toyota always was and still is one of best products on the road. Drive the Highlander and you will absolutely be sold.
Great SUV!
4.63 out of 5 starsTony the tester, 11/17/2010
2009 Toyota Highlander 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A)
We love our Highlander I4 with convenience package. This car has all the features I need and nothing you don't need-perfect. We love the space and comfort, ride quality and general feel of this car. The assembly quality is first rate. It had defective water pump after one year but it is one of the first ones that they put together. In any case, it didn't stop in the middle of the road. … The 4 cyl engine is great. It is quiet, and powerful enough to pull full load on our 1000 mile trip. It lacks a passing power a bit but it is a great cruiser and plenty of pep around town. Efficiency was as low as 19 mpg and as high as 29 mpg. Road feel is good but 6 spd transmission is too shift-happy but smooth.
Great SUV
4.63 out of 5 starsGreat Vehicle, 06/15/2010
2009 Toyota Highlander Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
I bought this SUV the end of March 2010 and since then have put 23,000 miles on it. I travel for work and find this vehicle so much more comfortable and versatile than my 07 Chevy Impala LTZ. It gets great gas mileage; best I've ever gotten is 28 mpg, but usually average around 25 per tank. The back seat is extremely spacious, even for me measuring in at 6'5". I find the in dash … information center to be very user friendly, even though it could have a bigger display. V6 acceleration is excellent for size and weight of vehicle. Handling is car-like with the sports trim level. Only major complaint is the lack of a compass for the price tag of this model.
2009 Highlander Highlights
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $25,705 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $169/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 42.3 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Highlander include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
People who viewed this also viewed
5.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $46,320 |
3.0 average Rating out of 10 reviews. |
Starting at $40,860 |
3.9 average Rating out of 36 reviews. |
Starting at $40,200 |
Related Used 2009 Toyota Highlander info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Nissan Armada 2020 Review
- Nissan Maxima 2021 Review
- Toyota Prius Prime 2021 Review
- Volvo XC40 Recharge 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz Maybach 2020 Review
Shop similar models
- Used Toyota Grand-highlander 2025
- Used Volkswagen Atlas 2025
- Used Chevrolet Traverse 2025
- Used GMC Acadia 2025
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Toyota Highlander 2010
- Used Toyota Highlander 2011
- Used Toyota Highlander 2012
- Used Toyota Highlander 2013
- Used Toyota Highlander 2014
- Used Toyota Highlander 2015 For Sale
- Used Toyota Highlander 2016
- Used Toyota Highlander 2017
- Used Toyota Highlander 2018
- Used Toyota Highlander 2019
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- New Chevrolet Equinox EV
- 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV News
- 2024 Dodge Ram Pickup 3500
- New BMW i4
- BMW M4 2026
- Ford Maverick 2025
- New Genesis GV60
- New Porsche Boxster
- 2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- 2025 BMW 8 Series
Research other models of Toyota
- 2025 Tundra
- 2024 Corolla
- New Toyota Grand Highlander
- 2024 Toyota 4Runner
- New Toyota GR Corolla
- 2024 Camry Hybrid
- Toyota GR Corolla 2024
- 2024 Toyota Sequoia
- 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- New Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Dodge Hornet in Menomonee Falls, WI 2025
- Used Mini Hardtop-2-Door in Collinsville, IL 2024
- New Subaru Solterra for Sale in Sikeston, MO
- Used Volkswagen Atlas-Cross-Sport in Cumberland, MD 2025
- Used GMC Acadia in Hillsborough, NC 2025
- Used Hyundai Veloster in Fitchburg, MA 2023
- Used Volvo V40 in Greeley, CO 2004
- Used Toyota Corolla-Cross-Hybrid in Westfield, MA 2025
- Used Audi S8 in Rockledge, FL 2025
- Used Oldsmobile Intrigue in Hammond, IN 2002