The Good
The 2011 Toyota Highlander excels in reliability and comfort, appealing to practical buyers. Its smooth ride and spacious interior provide a comfortable experience. Performance is adequate for daily driving. The Toyota badge inspires confidence in long-term value and dependability. Its refined design and reputation for safety can emotionally attract buyers wanting a secure family vehicle.
The Bad
Some weaknesses of the 2011 Toyota Highlander include potentially high repair costs for certain components. The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. The third-row seating is cramped and best suited for children. Watch out for potential oil consumption issues in higher mileage models. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters.
2011 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: Available on Base models.
- 3.5L V6: Standard on SE and Limited models, optional on Base.
- Horsepower:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: 187 hp
- 3.5L V6: 270 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.7L 4-cylinder (FWD): 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 3.5L V6 (FWD): 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- 3.5L V6 (AWD): 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: Around 9.5 seconds
- 3.5L V6: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: 2,000 lbs
- 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player, six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels.
- SE: Sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior trim, leather-trimmed steering wheel, upgraded audio system, backup camera.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, automatic climate control, sunroof, premium JBL audio system, 19-inch alloy wheels.
2011 Toyota Highlander Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door 4WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | PRINCETON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1935.02 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2721.55 kg |
| Overall Height | 172.97 cm |
| Overall Length | 478.54 cm |
| Overall Width | 191.01 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 278.89 cm |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5-L V-6 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $30,145 USD |
| Invoice Price | $27,520 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $810 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Have?
Recalls for the 2011 Highlander primarily centered on issues affecting a wide range of Toyota vehicles, such as floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal and potential issues with the fuel pump relay. Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information.
Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned oil consumption and water pump issues. Suspension components, particularly struts and shocks, may require replacement sooner than expected, especially in areas with poor road conditions. Also, some owners have noted issues with the navigation system and other electronic components after several years of use. Rust can become a concern in areas that use road salt during winter, affecting the undercarriage and body panels.
How long will the 2011 Toyota Highlander last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control. Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Safety features encompass front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for all three rows.
The 2011 Toyota Highlander received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The NHTSA awarded it an overall score of four out of five stars. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings in most categories, earning it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. However, specific ratings may vary based on the exact testing methodology used that year.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2011 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value
Depreciation has been moderate, reflecting Toyota's strong resale value. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and trim level. V6 models generally command higher prices than four-cylinder models. Clean, well-maintained examples with lower mileage fetch the highest prices. Color also influences resale value.
2011 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership
2011 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency
2011 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2011 Toyota Highlander Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2011 Toyota Highlander Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
In terms of features, the Highlander offers a good balance, but some rivals may have more advanced technology for the model year. The Pilot provides comparable interior space and practicality, while the Traverse offers more cargo capacity. Performance-wise, the V6 Highlander is competitive.
Price-wise, the Highlander tends to hold its value well. As for alternatives, the Honda Pilot is a similar and often comparable choice, offering a blend of reliability and practicality. If more cargo space is needed, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth considering, but be mindful of its reliability record. The Ford Explorer offers a more modern design, but its reliability might be a concern compared to the Toyota. Ultimately, the Highlander's reputation for reliability makes it a strong contender in its class.
Ranks #112 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 112 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Noah on May 17, 2021
OffroadingI was bogging in my moms car and offroading mudholes and all it was going fine till it hydro planed into a tree either than that amazing I would look into that though
Sylvia’s grandchildren transport on November 28, 2020
Best vehicle I’ve ever ownefThis vehicle has been so reliable and worth the money I paid for it 9 years ago. It’s more roomy than the newest models so there is absolutely no reason for me to make a change.
John A Seahawk fan on June 30, 2020
Service on the scheduled intervals and it is greatThis car is very reliable and has meet all my driving needs. The V-6 engine is very responsive and also gets good gas mileage. Would highly recommend this vehicle .
MaddMax on January 19, 2020
This has been a great SUVPurchased new, this has been an outstanding SUV. No major mechanical issues over the past 8 years. Maintained by local Toyota dealership, only oil changes, fluids, tires, wipers and battery have needed replacement. Excellent at highway speeds, averaging 23-24mpg. Love it!
44621er on January 5, 2020
Great car from day 1I truly like this car. Because of this car we have leased another Highlander and are looking to purchase a Highlander to replace the leased car
Highlander$3 on December 21, 2019
Great carThe ride is like a Lexus and it handles almost like a sedan. It's just the right size, has very comfortable seats and is loaded with technology!
Hockeyguy on December 1, 2019
Interior is top notch and drives wellBest car I’ve had. Drives very smooth and inside features like navigation blue tooth and hands free are a luxury. Makes driving a great experience.
Shadow on October 1, 2019
Should be recalled and destroyedThe 2011 toyoda highlander is the worst driving, worst riding, most uncomfortable car I have EVER been in. Bought with 19k miles. Steering wheel and carpet had holes in them before 40k miles. Numb effortless steering. Very abrupt throttle tip-in. Driving position could not be worse. Cheep interior materials. Lexus it ain't...
jay on August 22, 2019
Excellent customer serviceit was clean title clean car fax car have good condition runs and drive clean leather new brakes thank you very much for Ridetime llc
Dabuttdr on July 19, 2019
Great vehicleBought this vehicle with 117000 miles on it. The engine is already making noise, however I bought a great warranty, so whatever! I love it. Id buy it again in a second!
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.