Body changes from 08 to 11

[Ralph6410]

Is there someplace that shows the subtle body changes that identify the various years of the Highlander series. Today I was behind what looked "brand-new" yet the reflectors in the rear bumper were round while mine are rectangular. Another change I notice is the fog light area and grill opening in that area is different in the 2011 than a lot of pictures posted here.

Or... are these changes semi random and vary with the model as well?

[jgayman]

I have a '11 SE. I recall reading that for starters, ALL the sheet metal changed in '11. As you noted, the rear reflectors are different as are the headlights and grill (not sure about the tail lights). Externally, there are more differences than there are similarities.

[Ralph6410]

Were there no changes from 08 to 10?

[05Moose]

I don't know about 08 to 10 differences for a similar trim level, but you also have differences between the hybrid and non-hybrid trim levels. Taillights, grill, etc.

[matt0420]

I don't know about any changes from 08-09, but in 2010 the only change was that all the badges from the rear tailgate minus the big Toyota logo and the 4WD badge were removed.

2011 saw the biggest change, it got the oddball front end and the un-painted rocker panels/bottom trim, and new tailights. Other than that its still the same vehicle...

[gchu]

Here is something I found on the web

"Toyota has launched the 2011 version of Toyota Highlander with considerable styling changes, extra safety features, and new equipments. Let us get to know the significant 2011 Toyota Highlander changes in the present article.

What’s New for 2011?


2011 Toyota Highlander gets a new front fascia, fenders, hood, 17-inch wheels, headlights, and taillamps. The top-of-the-line Limited edition is featured with silver roof rails and 19-inch wheels, whereas the SE edition gets a power liftgate. Daytime running lights have been offered as a standard feature across the lineup of Highlander.

Engine Changes


The 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine that was available in the previous version is now standard on the SE 2WD version for generating 187 hp power, whereas a 3.5 liter V6 engine is offered on the Limited edition for delivering 270 hp. The EPA estimates for fuel economy is almost the same as that of the previous version because of the same power-trains (20/27 mpg in city/highways for the base model).



Latest Features


Several new features are included as a part of 2011 Toyota Highlander changes. For instance, the navigation system is no longer restricted to the Limited edition. At last, Highlander is integrated with a USB interface for music players.