2019 Toyota Highlander

2019 Toyota Highlander Highlights

The 2019 Toyota Highlander continues to be a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability. This model year brings subtle refinements to an already well-rounded package.

For 2019, Toyota has made minor exterior updates to keep the Highlander fresh. These include adding a black body-side rocker panel adding a rugged touch to the SUV's profile. The lighting elements have also received attention, with headlights, taillights, and fog light housings updates. These changes, while subtle, contribute to a more modern and cohesive appearance.

The Highlander continues to offer a choice between a capable V6 engine and a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reputation for reliability remain key selling points.

The Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, and Subaru Ascent are competitors in the midsize SUV segment.

Key Details

• Midsize crossover SUV body style
• Three-row seating for up to eight passengers
• Two powertrain options: 3.5-liter V6 and Hybrid (2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors)
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) across all trims
• Up to 5,000 pounds towing capacity (V6 models)
• Available second-row captain's chairs (reducing seating to seven)

Benefits

• Spacious and versatile interior with three rows of seating
• Reputation for reliability and strong resale value
• A comprehensive suite of standard safety features
• Available hybrid powertrain
• Comfortable ride quality suitable for long trips
• User-friendly infotainment system
• Ample cargo space, especially with rear seats folded

Learn More: Here Are The Toyota Highlander Years To Avoid

2019 Toyota Highlander Overview

Performance

The 2019 Toyota Highlander offers two powertrain options:

3.5-liter V6 engine:

• 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque
• Standard on all non-hybrid models
• Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission
• Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

Hybrid powertrain:

• 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors
• Total system output of 306 horsepower
• Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Standard all-wheel drive

The V6 engine provides ample power for most driving situations, offering confident acceleration and smooth operation. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for light to moderate towing tasks. While focused on efficiency, the hybrid powertrain actually delivers more total system horsepower than the V6.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Highlander a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named the 2019 Highlander a “Top Safety Pick,” the organization’s second-highest safety designation.

Standard safety features across all 2019 Toyota Highlander models include:

• Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) system
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Lane departure alert with steering assist
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Automatic high beams
• Seven airbags, including the driver's knee airbag
• Vehicle stability control (VSC)
• Traction control (TRAC)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)

Additional safety features available on select trims include:

• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Surround-view monitor
• Parking sensors

Driving

The 2019 Toyota Highlander offers a driving experience that prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The elevated seating position provides good visibility, while the well-tuned suspension effectively absorbs moderate road imperfections, resulting in a smooth and composed ride.

The Highlander's steering is light and precise, making this crossover easy to maneuver in parking lots and tight spaces despite its size. While not sports-car agile, the Highlander handles well for a midsize SUV, with minimal body roll in corners.

With its sport-tuned suspension, the SE trim offers a slightly firmer ride and more responsive handling. However, the subtle differences don't significantly alter the Highlander's overall comfortable character.

Interior

The 2019 Toyota Highlander interior is spacious and well-designed, accommodating up to eight passengers. Material quality is good throughout, featuring soft-touch surfaces in critical areas and durable plastics elsewhere. Higher trims like the Limited and Limited Platinum offer premium touches such as leather upholstery and wood-grain accents.

The front seats provide ample headroom and legroom. The second row offers plenty of space, especially in models equipped with captain's chairs. While not as spacious as some competitors, the third row is suitable for children or occasional adult use on shorter trips.

Cargo space is a Highlander advantage. There are 13.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 42.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a cavernous 83.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

2019 Toyota Highlander interior features available on select trims include:

• Leather-trimmed seating
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Second-row captain's chairs
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic moonroof
• Power liftgate

Technology

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a range of technology to enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety. While the infotainment system is not the most cutting-edge in the segment, it is user-friendly and functional. Key technology features available on select trims include:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Entune Audio Plus with Connected Navigation App
• Apple CarPlay compatibility (new for 2019)
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
• 4.2-inch multi-information display
• Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging
• Driver Easy Speak (amplifies driver's voice to rear seats)

Fuel Economy

The 2019 Toyota Highlander's fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain. EPA fuel economy estimates reflect:

3.5-liter six-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 21 city / 27 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 20 city / 26 highway / 22 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid:

• AWD (mpg): 30 city / 28 highway / 29 combined

2019 Toyota Highlander Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2019 Toyota Highlander an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 (4.5 for the hybrid). This strong feedback includes high reliability, quality, performance, and comfort rankings.

Reasons to Buy It

• Roomy cabin
• Standard advanced driver aids
• High-reliability ratings and resale values
• Excellent hybrid fuel economy
• Spacious cargo area

Problems

• Third-row space is tight compared to some competitors
• Infotainment systems may feel dated compared to some rivals
• Handling is less engaging than some sportier competitors
• Higher trims can be expensive compared to some rivals

Explore: Which Years Of Used Toyota Highlanders Are Most Reliable?

CoPilot's Take

While no vehicle is perfect, the Highlander comes close in the midsize crossover segment. Its strengths lie in its spacious and versatile interior, strong reliability reputation, and comprehensive suite of standard safety features. The hybrid edition makes the case even stronger, thanks to the standard all-wheel drive and exceptional fuel economy for a vehicle of this size and capability.

However, the Highlander isn't without its drawbacks. The third row, while helpful, is less spacious than some competitors, which may be a consideration for families who frequently use all three rows. In addition, the Highlander's focus on comfort means it's not the most engaging vehicle in its class, which may disappoint those seeking a more dynamic experience. Lastly, the price of higher trims can approach that of some luxury brands.

2019 Toyota Highlander FAQs

Is the 2019 Toyota Highlander a good year?

Yes, the 2019 Toyota Highlander is generally considered a good year for this model. It benefits from several years of refinements in this generation, offers a strong V6 engine or efficient hybrid powertrain, and comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Its reputation for reliability and strong resale value further contribute to the 2019 Highlander’s appeal.

Are there any problems with a 2019 Toyota Highlander?

While it's reasonable to call the 2019 Highlander reliable, a review of records from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com shows a few trouble spots to be aware of:

• Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system
• A loss of engine power
• Transmission hesitation or rough shifting

While these issues don’t impact every 2019 Highlander, any model under consideration should receive a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

What is the best year for a Toyota Highlander to buy?

The "best" year can depend on individual needs and budget, but the 2019 Highlander is often considered a good choice. It benefits from several years of refinements in its generation, offers a robust set of standard features, and is recent enough to have modern safety technology. However, 2017-2018 models are also well-regarded and may provide better value for used car buyers. If you're open to newer models (and a higher price tag), the 2020 Highlander began a new generation with updated styling and technology.

What should I pay for a 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE costs $19,000 to $36,000, depending on condition, location, and mileage.

What are the 2019 Toyota Highlander configurations?

There are numerous trims available, including:

• 2019 Toyota Highlander LE
• 2019 Toyota Highlander LE Plus
• 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE
• 2019 Toyota Highlander SE
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Limited
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Limited Platinum
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited
• 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Platinum

Check Out: How Long Do Toyota Highlanders Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Longevity