The Toyota Highlander has long been known for its dependability and smooth driving experience — qualities that resonate strongly with those looking for a no-fuss, comfortable SUV. Whether you're planning road trips, regular errands, or simply want a higher driving position with great visibility, a pre-owned Highlander checks all the boxes.
Built with practicality in mind, many Highlander models on the used market today offer roomy interiors, strong reliability scores, and advanced safety tech — making it an appealing choice for older adults looking for peace of mind behind the wheel.
What to Expect from a Used Toyota Highlander
The Highlander has seen several updates over the years, but some things remain consistent: its quiet cabin, smooth handling, and versatile layout. Most used listings from the last few years include models with Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise control, and Toyota’s Safety Sense package — all aimed at enhancing ease and safety for daily drivers.
Trim levels like LE, XLE, and Limited tend to offer a balance of features and value. You’ll also come across hybrid options, which are especially appealing for drivers aiming to reduce fuel stops without sacrificing power.
Highlanders are built with long-term ownership in mind — and this shows in how well they hold up even after several years of use.
Toyota Highlander vs Honda Pilot: Which Feels More Right?
For those comparing options, the Honda Pilot often comes up as a key rival. Both vehicles offer three rows of seating and a reputation for reliability, but the differences are worth noting — especially if comfort and ease are top priorities.
Toyota Highlander leans more toward refinement and quiet ride comfort. The materials and cabin finish tend to feel more polished, even in earlier models.
Honda Pilot is slightly roomier in the third row and may feel a bit more utilitarian in design — which some buyers prefer for cargo-heavy lifestyles.
In terms of hybrid availability, the Highlander leads — offering strong mileage and quieter city driving for hybrid variants.
Ultimately, many older drivers favour the Highlander for its intuitive controls, soft ride quality, and higher resale confidence.
Finding Lower-Mileage Highlanders That Still Feel New
Plenty of used Highlanders come with relatively modest mileage and solid maintenance records — especially from careful previous owners or former lease returns.
Some things to look for:
Models from 2020–2023 often come with modern safety features and infotainment tech
The Highlander Hybrid trims offer strong fuel economy without sacrificing interior space
Watch for well-kept interiors and smooth-shifting automatic transmissions, especially if test driving a V6 version
While mileage matters, regular servicing and full documentation often tell the real story of how a Highlander has aged.
Where to Search — And What to Ask Before Buying
You’ll find reliable pre-owned Highlander listings across popular platforms like:
AutoTrader, Cars.com, and Carfax — useful for filtering by trim, drivetrain, and ownership history
Toyota Certified Pre-Owned program — includes extended warranties and inspections
Local dealerships and trusted independent sellers — often carry one-owner vehicles with clean service records
Before committing, ask for:
Full service history (including brake and transmission checks)
Inspection of driver-assist features and infotainment system
A walkaround to check interior comfort and seat adjustability — especially if you’re looking for ease of entry and exit
Test drive over mixed terrain to check visibility, noise levels, and ride comfort