Tundra Guy Looking at Highlanders

[BuckTales]

Hey all -

I post on the Tundra forum but never have over here. My wife and I are expecting our first baby in June. We just sold her 2001 Accord coupe and are looking for new (to us) cars.

We're definitely excited about the Highlander, she really likes it. We are looking for a Toyota certified car, close to or under 30k miles, year range 2003-2005. We'd like to spend in the low 20's (22ish)....

Basically, I'm hoping some of you Highlander guru's can answer a few questions for me...

I am wondering if there are anythings I should keep an eye out for?

Does anyone find the 3rd row seat useful at all - and does it (when in the down position) take up cargo space? (We looked at one, and it seemed to not take up space when down, but certain documentation I've seen contradicts that).

Is the 4cyl a real dog at all? I figure it will hurt resale down the road, and I don't see that many of them.

How effective is the AWD system? I know its not "real" 4wd like my Tundra for example, but does it help in rain and snow? Do the 2wd versions have any options like LSD or anything that can help?

Sorry for all the questions everyone, and thanks in advance for any information you can help me out with!

[BuckTales]

Found this:

How do 2WD Highlanders perform in snow? Anyone in Northeast?

About the 2wd models in the snow. Sure sounds like I'm not losing alot in going with the FWD model with VSC and TRAC. I always have the Tundra if things get really bad.

[nes]

The 3 rd row seat is comfortable for children, as is the middle position of the second row.
So its 4 adults and 3 kids.
With the 3rd row up you will have about 1’ of luggage space. A cargo rack can be mounted to the roof rails (don’t know if all Highlanders come with the factory rails).
4x8 plywood definitely needs to be tied to the roof. It’s a family car.

Generally I am happy with my 04 ltd, but to nitpick…could use more cup holders in front, ash tray access is awkward, & not completely quiet w/ wind noise 50+ mph.

As far as AWD, it will handle 1-1/2’ of unplowed snow. This is a rare occurrence for me though. Have yet to get stuck.

[bob259]

Originally Posted by BuckTales

Hey all -.....Does anyone find the 3rd row seat useful at all - and does it (when in the down position) take up cargo space? (We looked at one, and it seemed to not take up space when down, but certain documentation I've seen contradicts that).

Is the 4cyl a real dog at all? I figure it will hurt resale down the road, and I don't see that many of them.

How effective is the AWD system? I know its not "real" 4wd like my Tundra for example, but does it help in rain and snow? Do the 2wd versions have any options like LSD or anything that can help?

Well I have an 06 Highlander Hybrid and came from a Tundra because of other reasons, but love the HH.

Hope this helps:

• Have the third row seats, but never used them
• The HH has the 4wdi system and so far this year we've had some bad weather and I've had a chance to test it and it works very well.
• Don' count out the resale on the 4 Cyl. If gas prices go up again as they are predicting it will be worth more then you can imagine, or KBB says