My advice for 'Best' would be to look for th lowest mileage, best svc records, 2016. You'll like the transmission better (If you drive it and a '17 or '18. I prefer the less complicated fuel injection systems, and in actual fact the 15-16 cars seem better assembled.

 

. I may be in the market for a used Highlander for my daughter. Your assessment on the 2015/16 models being ”better assembled” is this based on your opinion or ”actual fact”? If so what are the fact(s)?

 

Are there any years to avoid? How good are the awd systems? I am looking at a 2018.

Which motor is best?

How does the awd compare to Subaru?

There are no years to avoid per say. There were some transmission concerns with the '17s. I'm not really well versed on the specifics with the transmissions, someone else would have to chime in to give you more specifics.

The newer 6 cylinder ('17-present) is likely the better motor because it has increased HP as well as increased economy due to both port and direct injection. If fuel efficiency and power are not the primary concern then I'd go with a '15 or '16 as there is less to go wrong.

The AWD system on the highlander is not as good as Subaru. It is designed to perform on poorly plowed roads and has no off road credibility. It's plenty good enough for commuting in snowy weather.

The real take away here is that there really aren't any issues with the 3'rd gen Highlanders that are significant. There are some pesky problems but nothing that I am aware of that would be considered a fatal flaw.

 

We drove several '15 and '16s in 17 when we bought our '17 new. It wasn't quite 'Blues Brother's' "They were giving them away" But it was late enough in the year that the '18s were cluttering the dealers up quite a bit. The 15s and 16s were stupid high mileage so we passed on them. They felt just as tight and solid as the new '17. Our daughter in Colorado bought an '18 and is pleased enough with it, plus they have gotten to the fuel pump replacement already. Our '17, not so much. I have driven a 2020 and a '19 too and all told I would still take a lower mileage '16.

 

. OK. Im not sure what your saying. Can you give me an ”actual fact” why a 15’ or 16’ is ”better assembled”. Like the knobs or seats or any part that’s assembled? I really would like to know.

 

All your answers are here

 

2017.... avoid 1st year of disabled 8 speed
2016 last year of 6 speed

There were some mild structural improvements for the 2016 for better crash worthiness when compared to the 2015. Also, think 2016 came standard with tow package on all V6.

And yes, the less complex MPFI over D4-S might yield better reliability or lesser long term repair costs. Just thinking about that recent massive D4s fuel pump recall. Increased HP doesn't make it a better motor.

The AWD is only as good as the tires.

So, IMHO, either get a 2016 or 2019+. Not sure when the 8-speed improved shift programming kicked in after 2017/18.

 

I’d recommend the 2015 or 2016. The later years seem to have more transmission issues.

 

Check You Tube , Car Care Nut channel. He is a Toyota Master Mechanic, and has a video on Highlanders, tells you everything you need to know