2003 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV sold in the United States since the 2001 model year. Built on a car-derived unibody platform originally shared with the Camry, it helped establish the template for the family-oriented midsize crossover: a smooth ride, easy driving manners, and available all-wheel drive without truck-based compromises. A third-row seat has been offered since 2004, and a hybrid version has been available since the 2006 model year, making it one of the first hybrid SUVs sold in the US.

The Highlander's core appeal is everyday practicality backed by Toyota's reputation for reliability and strong resale value, and it has consistently ranked among the best-selling vehicles in its segment. Typical buyers are families who want three rows of seating without stepping up to a full-size SUV or a minivan. Key rivals include the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Ford Explorer. Since 2024 it has been joined in Toyota's lineup by the larger Grand Highlander, a separate model that positions the standard Highlander as the more maneuverable of the two.

The 2003 model: Launched the nameplate as one of the first car-based midsize SUVs, using a unibody platform derived from the Toyota Camry for a smoother, more carlike drive than truck-based rivals. Buyers could choose a four-cylinder or a V6 (3.0 liters, enlarged to 3.3 for 2004) with front- or all-wheel drive, and an optional third-row seat arrived for 2004. The Highlander Hybrid, added for the 2006 model year, was among the first hybrid SUVs sold in the US.