Performance: I was very impressed by how quiet the 3.3-liter V6 was. Even under moderate to heavy acceleration, engine noise hardly penetrated the cabin at all. More impressive still was the vibration, or lack thereof. Throughout the engine's rev range it was virtually undetectable - this has consistently been an area in which Toyota V6s never fail to deliver. While the 230- horsepower power output doesn't sound impressive, the car never feels slow or strained under normal driving. I found the plentiful low-end torque particularly helpful, and I really enjoyed the smooth-shifting 5- speed automatic transmission. Steering feel was nonexistent, but in a family crossover, this isn't really a problem. The Highlander's brakes were by far the worst aspect of the driving experience. Stopping power was not consistent or linear throughout pedal travel. Handling was good, and the ride was well composed. Build Quality: While the Highlander's interior surfaces don't stand out as being particularly high-quality, they are exceptionally well made and solid- feeling. Much like the driving characteristics, you're never left wanting for more. At 46K miles, the Highlander I drove was tight as a drum, with not a single squeak or rattle to speak of. Appearance: I found nothing to either love or hate about the Highlander's appearance. Much like the Toyota Camry sedan on which it's based, the Highlander can blend easily into any environment, going entirely unnoticed in most cases. Cost of Ownership: Gas mileage is rated at an EPA-estimated 18/24 MPG - accurate, based on my observations. This figure is certainly competitive within the class, and the Highlander is widely regarded as offering an excellent value of ownership over the long run. Fun Factor: Is this a fun car? In a word, "no." I don't see this as a knock against the Highlander in any way at all. It simply is not fun, nor was it ever supposed to be. The Toyota Highlander is one of those vehicles that does everything it was intended to do, and does those things very well. It is a fantastic family vehicle, and I'd recommend one to anyone in the market for a midsize crossover.

Great family car. I would buy another if looking for an SUV. This will be my wife's car when I find a Ford Mustang for myself. Very dependable, reliable and safe to drive. Actually much more comfortable ride than I imagined. Great for long trips, too.

I was an auto tech for over 30 years, this was my first Toyota and by far the most dependable car I ever owned. The original brakes lasted over 100 thousand miles (the trans down shifts automaticly when the brakes are applied). The mid level Daton tires lasted 60 Thousand miles. I never had an unexpected issue of any kind, just gas, oil, and go.

This car is great on gas with comfortable seating and a well thought out interior. Maintenance is easy DIY and reasonably priced. My only complaint about this little SUV is the lack of power. Overall this is a great "mom" or "dad" mobile and has plenty of room for a growing family, or in my case it's a wonderful dog taxi.

It had a 3.3L engine, and the car idled strong and I felt a vibration that is not common to most 3.5L Highlanders I have driven.