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Last updated on April 6th, 2022 at 11:22 am

Toyota Highlander has been among the top-selling vehicle of the midsize sporty utility type vehicle. Its independent suspension prioritizes its set up on the comfort and quality of the ride. You can find the 2005 Toyota Highlander either as a V6 or a 4-cylinder with a front-wheel drive or an all-time 4-wheel drive.

It comes with a five seating capacity standard though an optional 3^rd-row seat accommodates two more passengers. . However, they will be a bit cramped. The third row can fold flat with the second row capable of the same, revealing a cargo space of 80 cubic feet way above what the Toyota 4Runner and Kia Sorento offers. 

If you are looking for a smooth ride, then the 2005 Toyota Highlander will suit you. Even if the weather is at its worse, the Highlander will ease those spontaneous flea-markets purchases. The car value does not exceed $4,866 and has a good vehicle history except for oil leakages that is known to have 5-speed automatic is available in the V6. 

• The Engine

You can either find a Toyota Highlander base or Limited trim. Each has a front-wheel drive or full-time all-wheel drive. The engines available include a 2.4 liter inline-4 that comes standard and has a 160 horsepower rating. The new 3.3 liter V6 generates 230 horsepower and is standard on the Limited and optional on the Toyota Highlander base. 

The V6 models have a 5-speed automatic transmission while the four-cylinder ones come with a 4- speed automatic. Compared to the Honda Pilot, the engine for the Highlander is less powerful. The AWD V6 Limited can handle even the most devastating surfaces.

The Toyota Highlander base four-cylinder front-wheel-drive model has cruise control, five-seater settings, electronic stability control, cloth upholstery, power windows, door locks, and air conditioning. The equipping is similar in the all-wheel-drive model. It is optional, but you will have to take the third-row seat if you go for the V6AWD. Traction Control is a standard in all the models.

According to the Consumer Reports, Toyota Highlander 2005 has a better fuel economy compared to previous models. However, it is vital to do regular oil changes beyond the factory recommendations. With maintenance, you will avoid unnecessary expenses on car repair, and it will also serve to increase resale value. Toyota has a certified pre-owned vehicle program which requires a maximum of 85,000 miles on the odometer. The vehicle is subject to an extended warranty.  

• The Exterior

The Toyota Highlander appears smart with trims, ranging between the edgy lavish style of the RAV4 and the powerful drive of the 4Runner. It slightly resembles the Lexus RX 330. It has a more spacious interior than RX 330 per the total EPA interior volume measurement, although the cargo volume is somewhat more in the Lexus. Similar to the Toyota Avalon, the 2005 Toyota Highlander is a midsize vehicle. However, the appearance between the two is entirely different.  

The light clusters, grille, and front bumper of the Highlander underwent a revision for 2004 but maintained the same from then to date. Sharp lines mold into the bumper cover, giving it a more definite shape than before. The grille has bold and well defined horizontal bars as the elements of the light clusters appearing to blend smoothly. Due to Toyota’s conservatory tendency, the Highlander misses the cutting end design as with Nissan Murano. 

The front and rear overhangs have a close resemblance to the station wagon. Comparing the Toyota 4Runner with the Highlander is similar to a pickup truck versus a car comparison. The Highlander has a uni-body structure instead of a separate frame. Besides, the suspension is 4-wheel independent instead of a solid rear axle. 

• Interior

The interior design is conservative and quite convenient. When it comes to getting in and out, the Toyota Highlander 2005 wins. You don’t have to climb up or step down but slide in. With such, most Highlander owners consider it as the most convenient vehicle they ever came across. The power window buttons are in a convenient location on the door. 

The four-spoke steering wheel allows easy visibility of the instruments. The front seats are supportive and cozy despite being flat and lean and adjustable to suit the drivers’ varying sizes. It can be the right car for  small families due to its comfort and suitability for doing daily errands. Besides, the vehicle is a sport utility, thus ideal for recreation. 

The driver’s seat is cozy and has adjustable lumbar support. The second-row seat accommodates a maximum of three passengers, although two are more comfortable. It slides forward, easing access to the third-row car seat and offering more space for third-row passengers. Besides, the second-row car seat can almost fold flat but not entirely. The third-row car seat for the Honda Pilot provides more hip and shoulder space. 

However, if you wish to use the third-row seating more often, the Highlander 2005 won’t be the best for you. The side airbags do not protect the passengers in the third-row car seat. The shifter is more as a section of the dash rather than on a central console.

The Limited 2WD and 4WD come standard with V6 and third-row car seats. The Limited also features wood grain interior trim, fog lights, 17-inch aluminum wheels, 8-speaker JBL audio system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate regulation, 4-way power passenger seat, shift control knobs, roof rack, and remote keyless entry, among other features.

The temperature control is a single zone system and the third -row seats have rear privacy glass. When the third row folds flat, it creates almost 40 cubic feet space for your stuff. However, the cargo space is less compared to a Honda Pilot. It comes with air conditioners in a convenient position for efficient climate regulation. 

You will find a leather-trimmed seating either Ash grey or Ivory in the Limited or base model. They also have an option for in-dash 6-CD changer and a tilt & slide glass sunroof. A GPS navigation system is only available in the Limited model. The fuel economy of the Highlander Hybrid is similar to that of a compact sedan. 

• The Ride 

The Toyota Highlander 2005 is easy to drive and handle. According to Consumers Report, the mode beats the 2001 model in terms of vehicle safety. However, a low tire-pressure caution system is now standard. The vehicle offers a smooth riding experience on different surfaces. Electronic Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control comes standard for all Highlanders. A new low-tire-pressure warning system is standard.

The same case applies for the anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake assist. There is less likelihood of brake failure. All-wheel drives perform well in slippery and inconsistent conditions. Brake Assist engages the ABS even in a case where the driver relaxes pressure on the brake pedal. The Tire pressure system gives an alert whenever you  pump in some air. 

Conclusion

The Toyota Highlander 2005 will comfortably accommodate four people and up to seven though in a pinch. It is easy to operate, has convenient features such as air conditioning, and performs well in all weather. Toyota has an excellent reputation for its durability, quality, and reliability, meaning a substantial resale value. The 2005 Toyota Highlander is a perfect choice for people wishing for a versatile and modern sporty ride, so you don’t have to change vehicles now and then.

FAQ’s about the 2005 Toyota Highlander