Toyota Highlander 2000–2004 car dimensions: 4684 mm long, 1826 mm wide and 1679 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,581 kg. Braked towing is 1,585 kg.
Standard air conditioning keeps the five-seat cabin comfortable, with automatic climate control available on Limited grades. Cruise control comes standard for highway driving. Power windows, locks, and mirrors are included, along with a tilt steering wheel and AM/FM cassette/CD stereo. Seats fold flat to open up space, and dual front airbags with optional side airbags provide basic protection. No advanced electronic driver aids appear in the equipment lists.
Cargo space measures 1090 liters behind the rear seats and expands to 2305 liters with the 60/40-split rear seats folded flat for a nearly level load floor.
Maximum braked towing reaches 1585 kg on V6 models or 1360 kg on four-cylinder versions when equipped with the optional tow package, which adds an upgraded radiator, transmission oil cooler, higher-output alternator, and trailer wiring. Unbraked towing is listed at 680 kg. Payload capacity ranges from about 501 kg to 680 kg depending on drivetrain and engine.
The independent suspension and available full-time four-wheel drive suit light work and family hauling on pavement or mild trails, with the tow prep package providing the extra cooling needed for trailer use.
Front captain chairs are supportive yet firm and recline nearly flat. Space up front feels open with a high seating position for clear views. The cabin uses durable fabrics or optional leather with a simple, solid build. Moonroof option trims headroom a bit. Rear 60/40 split seats recline in steps and fold for a flat load floor.
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
19.8-gallon fuel tank
Standard ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
Dual front airbags standard. side airbags optional
IIHS Good rating for moderate overlap frontal crash
VSC with traction control available
The Highlander takes regular unleaded fuel of 87 octane or higher. The tank holds 19.8 gallons. Four-cylinder models return higher mileage estimates than the V6.
Follow the scheduled maintenance guide for service needs. V6 engines use a timing belt that needs replacement at the recommended interval. Use 5W-30 oil.
ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist come standard. Dual front airbags are standard and side-impact airbags are available. The vehicle earned a Good rating from IIHS in the moderate overlap front test. Vehicle skid control and traction control are optional.
Keep service records current, especially oil changes on early V6 models to prevent sludge. Regular checks help the car last well past high mileage.
Length 4684 mm, Width 1826 mm, Height 1679 mm, Wheelbase 2715 mm (Highlander 2000–2004)
Sources: manufacturer data, 2003 Toyota Highlander US brochure, multiple sources.