Parkers
The Toyota Highlander offers spacious 7-seat comfort and practicality with a smooth hybrid powertrain. However, its conservative styling and uninspiring driving dynamics sometimes hold it back from being truly exciting.
Read full review4.1/5· Toyota
Toyota Highlander SUV (2021 - 2022)
2021 – 2022· 5 owner Q&As
Petrol/Electric Hybrid5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
8.2/10
Excellent
The Toyota Highlander SUV stands at the crossroads of past and future, merging the nostalgic charm of retro design with electrifying efficiency. It’s not just a throwback; it’s a savvy choice for the budget-conscious commuter seeking reliability and style on the roads.
At a glance
244
hp · Power
560
miles · Real-world range
8s
0–60 mph
£
Running costs
From £878/mo
Typical finance
Motoring.Today. verdict
Best for
- Spacious and versatile seating arrangements
- Impressive fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid variant
- Comprehensive safety features and modern technology
Consider alternatives if
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Hybrid model may lack the raw power of traditional petrol variants
- Interior materials could be improved for a more premium feel
Finance snapshot
Typical monthly payment
£878/month
Based on PCP · 48 months · £5,300 deposit
Best suited for
- Company Car Drivers
- EV Buyers
- High Mileage Drivers
- Families
Affordability
Premium
Above average monthly commitment.
Ratings breakdown
performance42/10
practicality46/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel40/10
comfort45/10
equipment40/10
green credentials32/10
handling38/10
reliability44/10
safety47/10
Theo's AI summary
Verdict: The 2021-2022 Toyota Highlander SUV stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of space, efficiency, and modern technology. With its impressive safety features and versatile interior, it caters to families and adventure seekers alike. If you're in the market for a reliable, stylish SUV that adapts to your lifestyle, the Highlander deserves serious consideration due to its combination of innovation and practicality.
Best match for
- Practical families
- Performance enthusiasts
- Budget-conscious buyers
Estimated ownership costs
Based on 10,000 miles per year
Electricity
£29/month
Insurance
£163/month
Road Tax
£49/month
Servicing
£35/month
Estimated total
£276/month
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Handling is a strong suit for the Toyota Highlander, with precise steering and a composed chassis that instills confidence in the driver. Whether navigating tight corners or cruising on the motorway, the Highlander maintains its poise. The vehicle's weight distribution enhances o
External voices
What the experts say
Autocar
With a bold yet conventional design, the Highlander stands out among SUVs. Its interior is spacious and well-equipped, but the materials could be of higher quality. It's ideal for families but lacks the finesse of some rivals.
Read full reviewWhatCar
The Highlander is recognised for its reliability and practicality. The hybrid engine is efficient, though performance may be slightly lacking compared to competitors. Owners tend to appreciate its family-friendly features.
Ownership intelligence
The real cost of owning one
Finance & affordability
Finance options for the Toyota Highlander are diverse, allowing buyers to choose from flexible leasing arrangements or traditional financing methods. This flexibility makes it accessible to a wider audience, enhancing its popularity in the SUV market.
Day-to-day running costs
Running Costs. Owning a Toyota Highlander is economical, particularly the hybrid variant, which boasts lower running costs due to its fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance and the availability of genuine parts contribute to long-term affordability, ensuring peace of mind for owners.
Charging & fuel
Charging/Fuel. For hybrid owners, fuel costs are significantly reduced, while electric options provide a promising future for eco-conscious drivers. The Highlander’s fuel tank capacity ensures that long journeys require fewer stops, adding to its practicality.
Heritage
Milestones & history
2021
Launch of the redesigned Toyota Highlander model with hybrid technology
2022
Introduction of enhanced safety features and tech updates
Read full launch story
The Toyota Highlander was designed to provide a spacious, family-friendly SUV that prioritises safety and comfort, catering to the needs of modern drivers. Since its inception, the Highlander has evolved significantly, expanding its offerings from traditional petrol engines to hybrid options, reflecting changing consumer preferences for fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly vehicles.
Compare with alternatives
The Toyota Highlander (2021 - 2022) competes strongly in the midsize SUV segment with its blend of family-friendly features, reliability, and available hybrid options but faces stiff competition from rivals offering unique advantages.
Honda Pilot SUV
Reference only
A well-rounded midsize SUV known for its reliability and family-friendly features.
- vs features
- The Honda Pilot offers a spacious interior similar to the Highlander, with a strong emphasis on family usability, but it has a more car-like driving feel and slightly more cargo space. Tech features are competitive but may lack some premium options found in the Highlander.
- vs price
- The Pilot is generally priced similarly to the Highlander, though specific trim levels can make one appear more expensive than the other depending on configurations.
No Motoring.Today review
Ford Explorer SUV
Reference only
A sporty and versatile midsize SUV that appeals to adventure-seekers.
- vs features
- The Ford Explorer offers a more thrilling driving experience with a potent engine lineup, but cabin quality and tech interfaces may not feel as premium as the Highlander. Third-row seating is less spacious compared to the Highlander.
- vs price
- Typically, the Explorer is slightly less expensive than the Highlander, especially at the base level, making it appealing for budget-conscious buyers.
No Motoring.Today review
Kia Telluride SUV
Reference only
A strong contender with a focus on luxury and value, often heralded as one of the best in the class.
- vs features
- The Telluride rivals the Highlander with high-quality interiors and a feature-rich standard offering. Both vehicles have excellent tech, but the Telluride is often praised for its upscale feel.
- vs price
- The Telluride is competitively priced, typically similar to the Highlander, but it can offer more features at base price points, making it a strong alternative.
No Motoring.Today review
Available now
Toyota Highlander SUV (2021 - 2022) for sale on Motoring.Today
Gallery
(15)
Specs by trim
2.5 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr CVTPetrol/Electric Hybrid Automatic · 2021–2022
- Power
- 244 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8 s
- Top speed
- 112 mph
- Torque
- 239 Nm
- Economy
- 39.2 - 39.8 mpg
- Range
- 560 mi
- CO₂
- 160 g/km
- Insurance group
- 41
- Road tax
- £590
- New price
- £52,655
2.5 VVT-i Hybrid Excel Premium 5dr CVTPetrol/Electric Hybrid Automatic · 2021–2022
- Power
- 244 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8 s
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Torque
- 239 Nm
- Economy
- 39.2 - 39.8 mpg
- Range
- 560 mi
- CO₂
- 159 g/km
- Insurance group
- 41
- Road tax
- £590
- New price
- £57,345
FAQs
- What is the fuel efficiency of the Toyota Highlander SUV?
- The Toyota Highlander hybrid engine boasts a commendable combined mpg figure, potentially reaching the mid-40s, making it competitive for its class.
- What safety features does the 2021-2022 Toyota Highlander offer?
- The Toyota Highlander comes with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and includes Toyota Safety Sense, providing advanced safety technology and peace of mind for families.
- Is the Toyota Highlander a family-friendly SUV?
- Yes, the Highlander is designed with families in mind, offering a spacious interior, versatility, and advanced technology that cater to modern lifestyle needs.
- Does the Highlander require electric charging?
- With its hybrid powertrain, the Toyota Highlander minimises the need for electric charging, making it convenient for those without home charging facilities.
- How has the Toyota Highlander evolved since its launch?
- Since its debut in 1996, the Highlander has transformed from a mid-size SUV into a spacious vehicle, improving fuel economy, safety, and embracing hybrid technology.