by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2015 Toyota Highlander Review: A Midsize SUV that Excels in Reliability and Safety

Rating: 4.75

Based on 100 Owner Reviews ▶

Eugene S | March 31, 2025

The Toyota Highlander, a mid-size crossover SUV, has been a popular choice for families for years. The 2015 model is part of the third generation (2014-2019). Key trims include LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Platinum. It's known for its reliability, comfortable ride, spacious interior (available with a third row), and strong resale value. Expect a pricing range of approximately $28,000 to $48,000 when new, varying by trim and options.

The Good

The 2015 Toyota Highlander offers a blend of practicality and comfort. Its reliable engine and smooth ride appeal to practical buyers, while the spacious and well-designed interior offers a sense of security and comfort for families. Good fuel economy for its class and strong resale value enhance its value proposition. The car's dependability offers peace of mind.

The Bad

The 2015 Highlander's weaknesses may include a somewhat uninspiring base engine, especially when fully loaded. The third-row seating, while present, can be cramped for adults. Some owners have reported minor infotainment system glitches. Watch out for potential oil consumption issues in higher mileage vehicles, and ensure the transmission shifts smoothly during a test drive.

2015 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview

Engine Options:

2.7L 4-cylinder (LE): 185 horsepower
3.5L V6 (LE Plus, XLE, Limited, Platinum): 270 horsepower

Horsepower:

185 hp (2.7L)
270 hp (3.5L)

Fuel Economy (3.5L V6, FWD):

EPA Estimated: 19 MPG City / 25 MPG Highway

0-60 Times (3.5L V6):

Approximately 7.3 seconds

Towing Capacity (3.5L V6):

Up to 5,000 lbs (when properly equipped)

Trim-Level Features:

LE: 6.1-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth, three-row seating, Entune Audio.
LE Plus: Adds fog lights, adjustable power liftgate, upgraded upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, and HD Radio.
XLE: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, sunroof, navigation, Driver Easy Speak, and blind-spot monitoring.
Limited: Upgrades to 19-inch wheels, LED running lights, second-row captain's chairs (optional bench), a JBL audio system, and rear parking sensors.
Platinum: Includes all Limited features plus heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control.

2015 Toyota Highlander Specifications

Vehicle Information

Year	2015
Make	Toyota
Model	Highlander
Trim	-
Style	All-Wheel Drive
Type	Sport Utility Vehicle
Category	Standard Sport Utility Vehicle

Manufacturing Details

Made In	United States
Manufacturing City	PRINCETON

Dimensions

Doors	4-Door
Curb Weight	1925.04 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating	2648.98 kg
Overall Height	172.97 cm
Overall Length	485.39 cm
Overall Width	192.53 cm
Wheelbase Length	278.89 cm
Standard Seating	8

Engine & Performance

Engine	3.5-L V-6
Engine Size	3.5L
Engine Cylinders	6
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type	Automatic
Transmission Speeds	6-Speed
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive

Additional Features

Anti-Brake System	4-Wheel
Steering Type	Rack & Pinion

Pricing

Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)	$31,070 USD
Invoice Price	$28,366 USD
Delivery Charges	$900 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications

Ownership
History

All History
Events

NMVTIS Title
History Check

Salvage/Rebuilt
Check

Accident
Check

Theft
Check

Open Lien
Check

Past Sale
Listings

Safety
Recalls

Odometer
Check

Market Price
Analysis

View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2015 Toyota Highlander Have?

The 2015 Toyota Highlander is generally reliable, but some owners have reported specific problems. A common concern involves the infotainment system, with occasional glitches or slow response times. Some drivers have also noted issues with the automatic tailgate, such as it failing to open or close properly. Oil consumption has been reported in some higher-mileage V6 engines; regular oil level checks are recommended.

Recalls for the 2015 Highlander have included concerns about the fuel delivery system, which could potentially lead to fuel leaks and increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, some models were recalled for issues related to the second-row seat belt assembly. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to determine if any recalls apply and if they have been addressed.

Long-term reliability is generally good, but preventative maintenance, such as timely oil changes and fluid replacements, is essential to ensure the longevity of the engine and transmission. Paying attention to any unusual noises or vibrations can also help identify potential problems early on.

How long will the 2015 Toyota Highlander last?

With proper maintenance, a 2015 Toyota Highlander can easily exceed 200,000 miles and provide 10-15 years of service. Average annual mileage for a well-maintained vehicle is around 12,000-15,000 miles. Long-term durability is a strong point, but potential weaknesses include gradual wear on suspension components, possible oil consumption issues with the V6 engine as mileage increases, and potential electronic component failures (infotainment screen, sensors). Regular servicing, including oil changes, fluid flushes, and inspections, is key to maximizing lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2015 Toyota Highlander offers a range of built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard tech includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen display (larger in higher trims), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer features like navigation, a JBL audio system, and Driver Easy Speak (which amplifies the driver's voice to the rear seats).

Driver-assistance features on upper trims include blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags, including driver and front passenger advanced airbags, driver knee airbag, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags.

Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player. The 2015 Highlander received excellent crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors

Alumina Jade Metallic

Attitude Black Metallic

Blizzard Pearl

Celestial Silver Metallic

Creme Brulee Mica

Ooh La La Rouge Mica

Predawn Gray Mica

Shoreline Blue Pearl

Interior Colors

Black Leather

Ash Leather

Black Fabric

Ash Fabric

Almond Leather

Almond Fabric

2015 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2015 Toyota Highlander ranged from approximately $29,215 for the base LE model to around $47,850 for the top-tier Platinum trim. Current used market prices typically range from $18,000 to $28,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Highlander holds its value well due to its reputation for reliability and Toyota's strong brand image. Lower mileage, a clean title, and a well-documented maintenance history will command higher resale values. Demand for SUVs also positively impacts resale value.

2015 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership

The 2015 Toyota Highlander is relatively economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate compared to other SUVs. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the V6 engine. Maintenance is generally affordable due to Toyota's reliability and readily available parts. Repair costs are also usually manageable. While not the cheapest SUV to own, the Highlander's long-term reliability helps keep ownership costs down compared to less reliable alternatives.

2015 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline

Fuel Capacity 43.97 liters

City Mileage 5.57 km/l

Highway Mileage 4.17 km/l

2015 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating

IIHS

Roof Strength Test Results Good

Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good

Small Overlap Front Test Results Acceptable

Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good

Side Impact Test Results Good

2015 Toyota Highlander Recalls & Defects

Steering:electric Power Assist System

Recall date 2015-03-13

Recall no. 15v144000

Source NHTSA

Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid, and 2014-2015 Rav4 Vehicles. A Component OF THE Electric Power Steering (Eps) Electronic Control Unit (ecu) MAY Have Been Damaged During THE Manufacturing Process. Over Time, This Damage MAY Result IN Failure OF THE Electric Power Steering System.

Consequence AN Unexpected Loss OF Power Steering Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.

Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Serial Number OF THE EPS ECU or Steering Column Assembly. IF THE Number IS Within THE Affected Range, THE EPS ECU Will BE Replaced, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 7, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331.

Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

Electrical System

Recall date 2018-11-27

Recall no. 18e107000

Source NHTSA

Summary Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry (Wanda) IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Replacement Windshields Sold FOR USE IN 2014-2018 Toyota Highlander Vehicles. THE Windshields Have AN Attached Wire Harness That Water MAY Leak Into, Possibly Causing Damage TO THE Vehicle's Engine Control Module (Ecm).

Consequence THE ECM Damage MAY Result IN THE Engine Stalling, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.

Remedy Wanda Will Notify Owners, and Service Centers Will Replace THE Windshields, and Inspect THE ECM FOR Damage, Having IT Replaced, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 29, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Wanda Customer Service AT 1-864-281-2760.

Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

Visibility:windshield

Recall date 2018-11-27

Recall no. 18e107000

Source NHTSA

Consequence THE ECM Damage MAY Result IN THE Engine Stalling, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.

Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.