2018 Toyota Highlander Limited - The Safe Choice

Follow Redline on social channels:
Instagram: / redline_reviews
Facebook: / liketheredline
Tesla referral code: ts.la/sofyan13379
Looking for a practical, comfortable, reliable, and safe family hauler for your family? Look no further than the 2018 #Toyota #Highlander. When the current generation debuted in 2014, the inoffensive design, generous equipment list, and Toyota badge promised buyers it would serve as a family vehicle for many years to come with little problems. Unfortunately, if you want some additional excitement in your family crossover, you may want to look elsewhere.

[@pedrosueta8863]

I used to avoid Toyota when I was young, I thought they were so bland. Now I appreciate the reliability and low maintenance vehicles Toyota offers.

[@Yowza-vf9mo]

Pedro Sueta sadly that’s what happens to us when we become adults and have to survive, we would all be owning bmw’s and shit.

[@Lucky8s]

Once you start paying for maintenance and repairs yourself, you start to understand why people go Toyota lol

[@elactionwilly2135]

Pedro Sueta I was the same way lol all my family owned was Toyota’s or Honda’s. Now I brought myself a 08 Toyota Corolla Matrix lol👌🏽

[@jamminjag12]

I’m still driving my 2001 RAV4. 307,000 miles and still rolling!

[@mkel0385]

Pedro Sueta it seemed like the camera was the same for 20 years

[@carole4136]

My first Toyota Highlander was a 2002 model. We still have it and it is running well with no major problems. My son now drives it. I leased a 2016 Highlander LE Plus and would have kept it at the end of the lease, but decided to upgrade to the 2018 Highlander XLE because I wanted all of the latest safety features. I have loved every Highlander that I have owned. It handles well, it's comfortable and very reliable. If you follow the recommended servicing, the Highlander will be trouble free and last many years.

[@paullam007]

I couldn't agree more with everything that you said. I'm the son that drove a 2002 Toyota Highlander and sold it last week (after almost 17 years) with no major issues. I got my dad's 2008 Highlander because my brother and I bought him an all-new Lexus UX.

[@jxmar_]

Did your old LE plus have a V6?

[@kalina4240]

What is the average cost to fill up your current Highlander? & about how long does your gas last you ?

[@Dontdoitguy]

I’ve owned an 03 v6 Awd that my grandmother passed down to me and now own a 2018 Le V6 Awd …. Couldn’t be happier and hoping I can pass it down to my daughter some day

[@abba3629]

It's 3.5 Liter V6 Engine 295 Horsepower is Like a Cheetah. Effortlessly merges into Highway Traffic. Feels as smooth as Silk.

[@abba3629]

"TOYOTA" THE NAME SAYS IT ALL. 👍 KING 👑 OF THE HILL AMONGST MIDSIZE SUVS. IT EARNED IT'S REPUTATION FOR RELIABILITY AND SAFETY OVER LAST 18 YEARS. No other Vehicle comes close to it.

[@davis6123]

99% of American families don't care about how the door rattles or how fast it gets to 60mph. They care about functionality and reliability, which is where the Highlander excels.

[@atl3630]

Hey, big respect to Toyota for their awesome v6 engine with Port and direct injection. No carbon build up. Consistent performance.

[@nafisahmed8097]

I literally was waiting for this ! Thank you so much for that Thanks

[@dcjohnson2490]

Love the alumina jade exterior, although toasted almond is hands down the Highlander's best color option! Another great review from Sofyan Bey. You make me wanna go to all these different dealer show rooms!

[@davidjym]

The Highlander is just what most people especially with families are looking for.

[@djayt1215]

Too small for familes

[@Travis-kt7cn]

@@djayt1215 maybe you just have too many kids? I would suggest a school bus then.

[@exquisitehubgh2144]

Travis 😁😂

[@soniazepeda7628]

You had me at Captain chairs 😍😍

[@ryanlittleton5615]

Even as someone who is more of a Honda guy, this would be my first choice in the segment. Very well rounded.

[@akmzaman6640]

I became fan of your review man. Keep it up bro.

[@wrzl1675]

I like your reviews, I really do! But I would avoid comparing apples to oranges imo. This is a vehicle that we didn’t see much of at the shop ( that’s a good thing) until they were approaching the 150-200k mile mark. The reliability is incredible, even by Toyota standards. I’m sure that’s why Toyota has left this vehicle alone ( if it’s not broken don’t fix it ). I would add Car Play and leave it like it is.

[@andrewschulzsd]

I think it's pretty fair to compare it to other vehicles in its class, specifically the Pilot in terms of what it offers.

[@howellmendoza7651]

Randy Carlisle how about honda suv are they reliable? Just asking cause im planning to buy soon. Thanks

[@iHasCaek]

@@howellmendoza7651 bought a 2011 honda pilot brand new. honda sensors like to break alot. just the sensors tho. makes you think your engine is falling apart when its not. also honda electronics like to randomly break. check the forums. its typical.

[@TommyD1801]

Hes a reviewer. Better tech better change, new thing is always better in the mean time its new. If you know what it means. Like people review apple. Praise the new features and slamp the one that should have been changed. :)).

[@dlg5485]

I disagree. Great reliability is no reason to let your competition pass you by. Innovation of technology and features always needs to push forward if you want to keep customers loyal to your brand. Toyota didn't get to be king of the hill by accident, they are more than capable of delivering both innovation and reliability.

[@darriontunstall3708]

I love the 2018 Toyota Highlander it's very nice!! I can't wait for your next video.

[@ThePERFECTSCREEMS]

My mom just got this, so excited about it!

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

Because ppl want reliability not junk ones like the others nd something tht holds value well

[@noelsilva5381]

I like the interior color. And for LED lights you can add them yourself. So it be better.

[@buzzlight-year4824]

Hi sofyan. Which will u prefer, this model or the new telluride?

[@charlesgroover9646]

Sofyan , would you buy this or the Pilot? I like a sporty feel but need 3rd row. Opinion would be valued

[@bmlove81]

I think you can get led headlights on the rava4, right?

[@nickr3441]

For that middle row, does it cost or or less for the captain chairs or the bench?

[@laron_t_green]

Love the shadow figure. Perfect!

[@jimmypena2442]

Im digging the new Redline logo👍

[@tallbozo]

Does door sound directly correlate to quality or safety? I've heard you complain about that but wonder if sound actually means anything.

[@kevinnaidu2128]

Addicted to Redline Reviews....

[@20796mayur]

hi does the 2019 model have led head lights? thanks!!

[@PLATINUM2U]

If it's long term reliability you're looking for with very low cost maintenance this is your ride😎 No timing belts on this puppy.. some other manufactures need to catch up with the times. But I won't mention who😁

[@andrewduncan335]

#hondapilot

[@jmasoncars4452]

Finally something we agree on Platinum! The drum brakes Tacoma, 4Runner, Sequoia ,Tundra definitely need to catch up with the times. Glad to see the Camry Avalon and RAV4 caught up becuase they were using almost 20 year old platforms before the redesign.

[@thecriticalthinkeroutsidet4947]

jmasoncar s I was appalled when the drums were still on the Tacoma. While the overall design is still my cup of tea (although the profile looked a lot similar to the previous gen), I doubt the current Tacoma will age well. It honestly felt more like a mid-cycle update to the same truck we've been seeing for over a decade now. An all-new design with a more refreshing vibe, more modern quality, more potent powertrains, an all-new platform etc, would really be refreshing. (I mean, the new Avalon being their best redesign yet, with the impressive new Camry, Corolla, and RAV4 and more soon to follow up) Although Toyota at one point even confirmed that they've made another TNGA platform that is compatible with trucks, I am still kind of worried with what the next Tundra will bring to the table.. (dunno if it's just me).

[@jmasoncars4452]

@@thecriticalthinkeroutsidet4947 I definitely think Toyota is taking note at what the competition is bringing. I feel we might be pleasantly surprised with the new tundra. I was actually waiting for the longest on the 2016 redesign for the Tacoma, needless to say I was pissed and I kept my 2008 Taco. I'm hoping the 2020 Tacoma brings some changes but I'm not holding my breath. I've heard there are updates to the powertrain in the works right now (maybe the Camrys 301 V6 and the 8 speed auto) but we'll see. I may be purchasing a new tundra if they do it right! The 5.7 is still keeping up with the class considering its age (minus fuel efficiency) so I'm anxious to see an updated 5.7

[@v60polestar88]

PLATINUM Most automakers engines are timing chain on V6. Toyota still uses belts on 4 cylinders

[@gip1279]

We're really complaining about the steering wheel and the way the door sounds when you close it? Man, will it break down or does it do okay on gas? That's what I want to know.

[@djayt1215]

Steering wheels are important for handling and safety. Flimsy doors also mean poor safety

[@jackyzhang4915]

D Jay T not true Highlander is top safety pick. The “heavier” Explorer gets poor ratings in small overlap test isn’t even safety pick

[@marcelpatel9017]

@@djayt1215 I would be more concerned about a flimsy engine. The Highlander is a great value

[@BrendanPJames]

so true haha

[@TCY110]

Nice! Finally you did a review of the 2017 refresh design :D Thank you!

[@stoicageorgeciprian]

Hello, can i use regular gas? I didn't get that...

[@ohyeah1359]

Can you compare the awd Highlander and the awd sienna side by side?

[@gs98999]

Does this actually have a sport mode? I know the S in Tacoma and Tundra and likely this doesn’t actually stand for sport. Doesn’t do anything but limit top gear you want. It’s “sequential” mode.

[@crystalrain9016]

I own the Limited ...it’s the finest vehicle I’ve ever owned . No issues at all ...period ..23,000 miles

[@Str8Lthl]

I have a 2015 Dodge Journey...Was looking for a more reliable and family suv...lol Is the Highlander little bigger than the Dodge Journey our are they about the same size, in terms of width and length...???

[@My_melody2024]

For the price the SE IS VERY WELL EQUIPPED! WE GOT OURS AND I DO NOTICE OUR 2018 IS STARTING TO LOOK DATED ON THE INTERIOR BUT IT ITS A 5 YEAR OLD DESIGN SO IT MAKES SENSE. OVERALL ITS A GREAT CAR AND MATERIALS ARE VERY HIGH QUALITY!

[@hughwright1317]

When discussing types of headlights (LED vs halogen) could you also discuss the actual brightness of the headlights? I’ve seen that not all LED headlights are equal

[@djayt1215]

A lot of led lights are too bright. Very unsafe for other drivers

[@christiancolon5588]

The 2019 pilot has the same steering wheel as the Odyssey 😂

[@johnnysunrocket8618]

It's only a steering wheel, who cares?!!!

[@dargay386]

I will be buying this, God willing.

[@7aramkeda334]

what dealership do you work at ?

[@mazukinzamazukinza307]

@REDLINE REVIEWS, YOU SEEMED SLIGHTLY COMFORTABLE IN THE THIRD ROW SEAT OF THIS PARTICULAR HIGHLANDER BUT SEEMED UNCOMFORTABLE IN THE THIRD ROW SEAT OF THE 2020 MODEL. IS THE THIRD ROW SEATING OF 2020 MODEL SMALLER? MANY THANKS.

[@elvy3236]

This is better than a pilot ??? What’s better 2018 or 2019 Highlander?

[@Toyota4Life]

Next gen Highlander should be sweet. I really like this current model it’s aging very well I believe it’s the oldest in its class so a next gen is due. Even tho it’s older it’s still a really good purchase today. I like that it has a narrow exterior design and not round like the Honda Pilot. To me the Honda Pilot gives off a minivan look because of its round design. The narrow design on this make it stand out from the rest. This It’s very good looking inside and out. I dig those stock wheels also. “Dare I say attractive” why is that a dare? This is a great looking SUV all the way around.

[@legocityeverthing]

I think the Explorer is currently the oldest, it came out in 2011

[@thecriticalthinkeroutsidet4947]

@@legocityeverthing I mean, the all-new 2020 Explorer is in the works, so it won't be for long.

[@ALEX-sh3tx]

Toyota4Life the Explorer is currently the oldest and best-selling

[@tl1539]

when is the next gen coming? next year?

[@b.f.378]

@@tl1539 2020

[@celsovera91]

Sofyan’s everyday frustration whether the car has carplay and how many screens a car should have

[@drumrboynoid]

Have they done, or announced the new design that you spoke of on this yet?

[@Ryan2022]

It was re-design for the 2020 model year and it is superior in every way

[@penvon]

Remove the Toyota Badge & put a Honda Badge & you’ll see Sofyan’s response change quite quickly.

[@sanesc2543]

Smooth Operator He shits on Toyota and Lexus so obviously

[@oldschool1928]

It's the end of November 2018 and he's finally doing a 2018 Toyota Highlander review. Soyfan spite, maybe?

[@sanesc2543]

Smooth Operator Most likely. Like seriously he complained about a fucking steering wheel being the same as the Sienna

[@thecriticalthinkeroutsidet4947]

@@sanesc2543 Talk about nitpicking at its finest.

[@bg693]

Love his reviews but you're right.

[@samnette2535]

Do they come with remote starter?

[@jamellloyd-hampton5561]

I LOVE THE V6 HIGHLANDER I DROVE IT JUST LIKE MY 2011 TOYOTA RAV4 SPORT V6 POWERFUL SUVS

[@bsa.rmi412]

I like how it looks from the side. Front looks like a pilot. Back looks like a sorento

[@Kanoemirate]

Toyota should please not listen to reviewers about the Clock. We appreciate it. After all they rewiew the Cars and the viewers are the actual buyers.

[@mholmes9893]

I watch your videos and appreciate the information. But what would be helpful is if you addressed the seating for tall people in your videos. How tall are you? I need a height comparison for seating comparison.

[@ResplendentRaider]

M Holmes he actually does..he is 5’7

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I have to correct one thing that you mentioned, Sofyan. when you said the RX 350 does not come with a pano roof, it is available, but not on the RX350L

[@jameslim6077]

What color is this?

[@Krel-888]

4 runner or highlander? these 2 makes me drool but I have to pick one..

[@godemperorofmankind7255]

I would pick the 4Runner. Because 4Runner!

[@ktpinnacle]

If I had a young family and wanted something reasonably priced that had some dirt road capability, this would be in the wheelhouse.

[@mojorisin7317]

I love the fact Toyota offers a liftgate glass opening, I'm disappointed that most suv's don't offer that option. I agree that Toyota needs to refresh this design but hopefully they keep the liftgate glass opening.

[@cosmicviewer477]

Toyota is known for having long vehicle design cycles. They take a long time to refresh their models, and while that annoys some people, I actually find that approach commendable. Toyota seems to understand its customer base, and so they don't get caught up in the latest fads and gimmicks; however, at the same time, they know how to innovate and set trends.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Yessssss No gaping hole grill

[@MP-lf4hn]

Need a good suv to carry the dogs (200 pounds of them), not kids, around town and on some long driving trips. Looking at the 17 Highlander SE or XLE but concerned it will not be sporty enough when I’ve been in a 19 Acura TLX for three years. Down to the 17 MDX and this.

[@aspecreviews]

I had to watch this because my friend owns a 2004 (1st-gen I believe) Highlander V-6 AWD Limited. It still runs great. Typical Toyota... 10:51 The 2004 had that ECT SNOW button too!! I'm so glad they kept that!

[@thunder2086]

Cool outside needs a lot of work inside to look more eye catching " attractive" to the eyes of the owner

[@RTPTechGuy]

Why would someone get this when the Pilot is available?

[@stephenhendricks103]

Definitely a "safe" choice and obviously in need of a thorough update. But that hasn't hurt Highlander sales. 2018 sales are up significantly over 2017 and Toyota sells about a hundred thousand MORE Highlanders than Honda Pilots in a given year. Toyota adopts long product cycles, is slow to adopt trendy innovations, and doesn't offer the highest quality interiors because they know their customers prioritize reliability and durability. And Toyota will is careful not to endanger its reputation in those areas. Earlier this year my wife and I shopped for a three row crossover. As Sofyan notes, the Highlander was a safe choice. Not as cumbersome in size as the Atlas or the CX-9. And though somewhat smaller than the CX-9 it offered much more interior room and cargo space. Time tested design and engineering and a good naturally aspirated V6. Undoubtedly reliable and durable. But even in its top trim it didn't offer the same quality interior as several other choices. For me, though, the most annoying aspect of the Highlander is the third row seating. Apparently Toyota's option of the captain chairs in the second row forced them to claim the third row could seat three so they could maintain it's a 7 passenger vehicle (or even more absurdly an 8 passenger rig). But putting three seat belts in the third row doesn't mean three people can be accommodated back there. The third row has less legroom, for example, than the much more compact Kia Sorento. With the exception of the Atlas, none of the smaller midsize crossovers offer third row seating that's comfortable for most adults for an extended period but the Highlander is among the worst. And putting three seat belts in the third row only adds insult to injury.

[@gratefulRed69]

I love this guys detailed reviews but can someone answer a question for me? He always emphasizes "LED headlights" vs projection. So, why is that such a big deal? Are they just better looking? More bright? Longer lasting?? Why is that so important? I have cars with up to 324k miles on them with regular headlights. I've NEVER had to replace a headlight bulb, ever. My only complaint is that the plastic housing most headlights come in get dull, faded and hazy over time/mileage which makes them look bad and diminishes the brightness of the headlamps. So...what's the big deal with LED??

[@aliciacatney4229]

Not bad on the Dulles toll road. Used to live in Northern Virginia

[@caidenn_mb]

Am I the only person that finds the XLE to be the best version? You get a little bit of everything, and it’s the most common trim level.

[@thecriticalthinkeroutsidet4947]

While the Highlander may be slowly showing it's age now, I can still say that this generation has aged very well and also looks very handsome. Can't wait for the upcoming redesign. (which I predict will be for the 2020 model year at next year's New York Auto Show) :) I mean, with redesigns like the new Avalon, the new RAV4, the new Camry, the new Corolla (both sedan and hatchback), and even the new Supra (hopefully that is), 100% of my chances bet that the next Highlander will be awesome too. :)

[@princea9615]

My mom has a 2017 Highlander limited great vehicle... gas is ok.... I would say the biggest complaint we have is the headlights during bad weather... you can’t see anything in bad rain even with the fog lights on... love the blind spot monitoring... don’t really care for the steering feel.

[@vmavk]

Alim Felix get her HID for less than $150 at xenonhids. com problem solved

[@User-jq2bb9jj1x]

Is it for good long travling like 7 hours of driving

[@atl3630]

It’s great for that.

[@rupjolly]

Soyfan - what 2018/2019 SUV would you recommend if you were to buy one today for a small 4 person family? (incl lower end luxury suv's)

[@theredline]

Rup Jolly We actually really like the new Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas a lot. But the Highlander is still a solid choice, the Mazda CX-9 is also a more premium offering that won’t break the bank. There are so many great choices out there today, we encourage anyone to test drive everything before deciding.

[@rupjolly]

@@theredline Thanks! Test driving them all is good advice. My shortlist includes Acura RDX, Porshe Macan and most of the others you shared.

[@normt5463]

@@rupjolly so Highlander is not a stand out except for high price.

[@rupjolly]

@@normt5463 Agreed that its not a stand out, but overall decent suv. I appreciate the reliability that the Toyota nameplate offers - that's high on my list, but also looking something a little fun to drive

[@eduardosampoia5480]

I hate the cruise control arm...but will probably still get a highlander.

[@valberlin9239]

Is it just me, or there's a ghost filming you the whole time...? Looking for the 2018 or 2019 Highlander Limited platinum to purchase.

[@shizzle1903]

My favorite part of this vehicle is it’s steering wheel.

[@BrendanPJames]

Idk why people talk about three row crossovers like they’re just minivans for moms with kids. I don’t have a family but I use my highlander to do drive around my friends, go up to the mountains for ski trips, etc. have even driven it in deep sand and in rocky situations and it never skips a beat

[@Ryan2022]

Because people are media sheep that’s why they can’t think for themselves so they just repeat back nonsense that they hear

[@DanielTojcic]

Ive tried multiple times to “like” this thing but I can’t do it. It’s not as good as people make it out to be imo

[@adriananzano2292]

is it just me or does the front end look like a much cheaper toyota innova crysta?

[@michaelpast19]

I drove the sports version of the highlander and the acceleration sucks for a v6 it doesn’t take off but it did look nice only thing was it wasn’t fast like other crossovers

[@aznboi0118]

Not sure about Honda Pilot smoking Highlander! We know your a "Honda" man. Lmao

[@radius8283]

Any current owner here of 2018 Highlander? My friend had a 2017 and got a front ball joint catastrophic failure at just 12K miles! Not sure if how many got that issue. Luckily she was not driving on a highway but on city street and it happened after a corner. Had it been on a highway it would have been a fatal crash. Do some research before you buy. No sure what is going on with Toyota’s made in USA? I have an 04 4Runner and it is now 310K original engine and transmission! It’s made in Japan.

[@MiroBG359]

the butt warmer toggles are the same as my Lexus 3GS

[@tacrown4258]

Some people hate heavy key fobs/things in their pockets.

[@bextar6365]

Key fob Great for me !

[@samlung2724]

Its a toyota. Everything is cheaply made, people should know that by now.

[@gregblack8550]

A bid wad of money feels great in my pocket!

[@jcportiz]

Toyota has the best reputation.

[@mujjuman]

the new toyota highlander is truly an amazing family SUV. i just wish the lexus RX-L was better looking

[@MsRose00]

My mother has had two of these...an 09 and then she traded it in for 2015.

[@USARMYvietnamVET1969]

I bought a 2018 Highlander Limited a few months ago and now have 3500 miles on it, nice vehicle, the only problem I've had is the Auto setting on the headlight switch quit working and my Dashboard lights blink on and off some times. Other than that I enjoy driving it.

[@IKhanNot]

So why not take it in to the dealership? You have warranty.

[@USARMYvietnamVET1969]

Daschcam Dumbass - All has been taken care of and works just fine. They made a quick fix at the dealership. Thanks' for asking.

[@rosedannajoseph4844]

Do they have in 4 cylinder

[@abba3629]

Yes 2.7 Liter 4 Cylinder. And 3.5 Liter 6 Cylinder as well.

[@timsouttahere]

I'll never understand why the Corolla has standard led headlights but this doesn't????

[@hispanicmanlaughinglol7389]

What a Stunning car😀

[@Justjenn96]

Hey I’m in VA too!

[@devintolliver92]

Bro have you gotten any sleep?! 😯

[@hobbyextreme7833]

GX 460 review?

[@luiscalderon7383]

I have the exact same model

[@firemedic726]

Nice tripod shadow

[@GuuiYae]

everything about this car is good except for 1 thing. Why should the 3rd row has 3 seats instead of 2nd row? Am i the only one who think this is Toyota miscalculation? I have 5 people in my family, if we go on a trip, we would fold down the 3rd row to have more space at the back in order to bring our stuffs along the trip. Then the car will end up with 4 seats total, how can a family with 5 people fit into this car?

[@drepar3359]

The 1st highlander had a 3rd row too

[@TheBomiheko]

@8:40 that old school Miley Cyrus jams.

[@elactionwilly2135]

Ours is a 2018 XLE and it has 2 USB outlets in the 2nd Row lol. And we have 2 Highlanders other is a 2004 Limited cuz of its reliability

[@nicholsonpoole833]

“Third row is useless even for infants” 😂

[@scluzzy]

Welp! there is no highlander in my country but there are Toyota fortuner and landcruiser-prado for sure.

[@damson2809]

New design is long overdue

[@inosurrender8327]

I’ve beaten several brz’s and 86’s with this Highlander lol

[@marcoscaliborn2443]

Solid sounding door......

[@Ryan2022]

He said it was a little hollow