Toyota Highlander XU70

The 4th-gen Highlander (2020–2025) is one of America's top-selling 3-row SUVs — and the powertrain pick defines everything. The Hybrid is the safest buy, the V6 carries a transmission lawsuit, and the 2.4T Turbo Max is unproven.

The 2.5L Hybrid (A25A-FXS, 243 hp combined) is the most reliable drivetrain: 35–38 MPG real-world, eCVT with no mechanical belt to fail, proven Toyota hybrid architecture. Known issues: milky oil in cold-climate short trips (condensation, usually NOT coolant) and electric water pump failures on early 2020 builds ($300–$600, warranty-covered). The 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) + UA80F 8-speed has a solid engine but a transmission lawsuit: high-pitched whine, slipping, complete failure at 60,000–90,000 miles. Class action filed 2025 — plaintiff quoted $7,451 for replacement. The 2.4T Turbo Max (T24A-FTS, 265 hp, 2022+) replaced the V6 — but surging/bucking from stops plagued 2022–early 2023 builds until TSB-0087-23 ECM flash. Premium fuel dependency despite "regular OK" marketing. Long-term durability unproven.

Recalls to check: front bumper detachment (23V720000, 2020–2023), OCS airbag sensor (23V865000, 2020–2021), and the March 2026 seatback recall covering ~590,000 vehicles — the most recent and significant. AC condenser rock chip vulnerability ($1,200–$1,800 replacement) is a common non-recall complaint, especially in sunbelt states.

Test-drive checklist: highway ramp 50–70 MPH (V6: listen for transmission whine), steady throttle from rolling stop (2.4T: surge/hesitation?), condenser fins for rock damage, engine oil dipstick (milky on Hybrid = condensation check), front bumper corners pushed (firmly seated?). Run VIN at nhtsa.gov for all open recalls.

2026 market: 2020 V6 $25,000–$32,000. 2021–2022 Hybrid Platinum $36,000–$42,000 (sweet spot). 2023 Turbo Max $34,000–$44,000. Insider pick: 2021–2022 Highlander Hybrid in any trim except Blizzard Pearl/Super White paint — eCVT avoids the UA80F entirely, all recalls documented on most units, 8-year HV battery warranty likely still active.