Reviews from Toyota Highlander owners. The history of the creation of the Toyota Highlander Repair of the 1st generation Highlander

This car, from the moment of its appearance, is known and popular no less than “ Land Cruiser" But in Russia, “Highlander” officially appeared only in 2010, but on the world market this model has been known since the very beginning of the 2000s. Let's go back 14 years and remember how the journey of “Highlander” began.

So, in April 2000 (as part of the New York Auto Show), the first Toyota Highlander (received the factory index “XU20”) was presented, positioned as “a mid-size crossover for young buyers aged 20-30 years old leading an active lifestyle.”

For its time, the new product offered car enthusiasts a very dynamic, but at the same time brutal exterior, incorporating details from more representative SUVs.

The memorable contours of the first generation Toyota Highlander, which later partly passed through generations, were emphasized by the proportional dimensions of the crossover: the body length was 4684 mm, the wheelbase length was within the framework of 2200 mm, the body width excluding mirrors was limited to 1836 mm, and the height rested at 1697 mm.
The curb weight of the Highlander XU20 was no less than 1725 kg. Height ground clearance crossover was 185 mm.

The interior of this car in the first generation had a classic layout and offered a quite decent amount of free space for its segment, both front and rear. It is possible that the ergonomics of the cabin and its appearance these days they only evoke sarcastic smiles, but at one time the interior of the 1st generation Toyota Highlander impressed with its boldness, high quality finishing and comfort are almost at the level of a business class sedan.

In addition, the first generation of Highlander also offered a very good trunk that could hold up to 1090 liters of cargo.

Technical specifications. For the first generation of its first mid-size crossover, the manufacturer offered three powertrain options.

• The junior engine was a 4-cylinder in-line gasoline engine 2AZ-FE with a displacement of 2.4 liters and output of 157 hp. at 5600 rpm. The engine torque reached its peak at 4000 rpm at 221 Nm, which made it possible to accelerate the crossover from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds, spending an average of about 10.7 liters of fuel in city traffic.
• More expensive versions received a V-shaped 1MZ-FE engine with six cylinders, the total displacement of which was 3.0 liters. The maximum power of this power plant was 223 hp, which developed at 5800 rpm. Peak torque of the 3.0-liter unit was 301 Nm and reached at 4400 rpm. In terms of dynamics, the engine was faster: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h took only 8.5 seconds. As for fuel consumption, in city conditions the crossover consumed about 12.4 liters per 100 km.

Both engines were combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission and installed on the model with the “XU 20” index from 2000 to 2003.

• After that, they were replaced by the 3MZ-FE engine, which had 6 cylinders, a displacement of 3.3 liters, and an output of 232 hp. at 5800 rpm, as well as a torque of 328 Nm at 4400 rpm. A more reliable 5-speed automatic transmission was used as a gearbox for the new engine. In addition, if both front- and all-wheel drive were available for the first two engines, the 3.3-liter unit was installed only in tandem with an all-wheel drive system that had a symmetrical center differential without any locks.

The first generation of Toyota Highlander was based on the platform Toyota Camry, to which the Japanese added some design elements of the Lexus RX chassis. The list of crossover equipment included 17-inch alloy rims, front ventilated disc brake mechanisms, rear disc brakes, ABS, roof rails, audio system, power steering, front airbags, air conditioning.

In the North American market, for which, in fact, the Highlander was developed, the first generation was offered in both five- and seven-seat versions. The “first Highlander” came to Russia through “gray” dealers who supplied cars from the USA.

The Toyota Highlander is built on the Toyota K platform, shared with the Camry V30 and Lexus RX. An inexorable connection can be traced within. The interior is a mixture of Camry and RX: design, ergonomics and surface textures. All switches are familiar and intuitive.

Large doorways make it easy to get inside. This is one of the few cars that can comfortably accommodate 5 passengers. After restyling in 2004, a bench with two additional seats appeared in the trunk. The gallery is too crowded for adults. To make the seats retract into the floor, engineers had to reconfigure the fuel tank.

The right-hand drive version of the crossover for Japan and Australia was offered under the name Kluger. The SUV was assembled for all markets without exception in Japan.

Safety

In IIHS crash testing, the Toyota Highlander received a "Good" rating. It is noteworthy that in reality Highlander turned out to be one of the most safe cars offered on the American market. According to IIHS, among all vehicles The 2001-2005 model year had one of the lowest driver fatality rates and was second only to the Toyota 4Ranner in the SUV category.

Engines

The base in the line was the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine (2AZ-FE / 155-160 hp). It was combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission transmission Interestingly, this combination has quite satisfactory characteristics. Yes, the dynamics are not amazing, but the car obediently responds to pressing the gas pedal. It's the choice of those who care more about things like fuel economy than thrilling acceleration and refined mechanics.

The SUV with a 3-liter V6 (1MZ-FE / 220 hp) is much faster than the base version. After restyling, the 1MZ-FE gave way to a 3.3-liter V6 (3MZ-FE / 215-230 hp). It runs quietly, provides a smooth flow of torque and doesn't consume too much fuel.

6-cylinder units have a timing belt drive with a recommended first replacement threshold of 150,000 km and a subsequent replacement interval of 90,000 km. Only the 4-cylinder engine was equipped with a timing chain drive. The chain sometimes stretches after 200,000 km.

All engines use the proprietary VVT-i variable valve timing system. She is very reliable. System malfunctions may occur due to failure of the VVT-i valve (from 2,000 rubles).

Common ailments include periodically failing oxygen sensors (from 5,000 rubles) and knock sensors (from 2,000 rubles). In addition, with high mileage, cleaning the throttle body is often required.

"Iron" of engines at correct operation And timely replacement oil will last a long time. Otherwise, costly repairs or replacements may occur. So, after 300,000 km, a 3-liter V6 sometimes begins to consume a lot of oil. Consider yourself lucky if you managed to get away with replacing the valve stem seals. But sometimes the reason is more serious - stuck rings or piston wear. In the latter case, it is easier to replace the engine with a contract one (70-150 thousand rubles plus 20,000 rubles for labor).

The 2.4-liter engine has one unpleasant design defect. During operation, the threads of the cylinder head bolts are destroyed in the cylinder block. As a result, the tightness of the channels is broken, liquid leaks appear, and overheating is possible. The problem was officially recognized and corrected only in 2007. There are two options for solving the problem: replacing the engine, or cutting a new thread and installing threaded bushings.

Of the entire line, perhaps only 3MZ-FE does not suffer from birth defects.

Transmission

Before restyling, the engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission Toyota/Aisin U140/U240 series. After restyling, six-cylinder engines began to be coupled with a 5-speed automatic Toyota/Aisin U150/U250 - a modified version of the 4-speed. Many box parts are interchangeable. Among the improvements are a reinforced planetary gear set and an updated valve body with solenoids.

The 4-band automatic feels more confident with the 2.4-liter engine. With the V6, especially with spirited driving, it gives up sooner. However, both boxes are very reliable - provided they are updated in a timely manner working fluid(every 60,000 km).

Often the reason the box goes into emergency mode The engine knock sensor becomes faulty. More serious problems may arise after 300,000 km. However most units come for repair only after 500,000 km: the torque converter, planetary gear, rear cover, clutches and pump bushings wear out. Replacing a faulty unit with a contract unit is advisable when the cost overhaul exceeds 100-150 thousand rubles.

The symmetrical permanent all-wheel drive system (50:50), of course, is not designed for serious off-road use. The Highlander is an outstanding all-rounder, and the transmission is designed for extra traction on wet or snowy roads, as well as on light-trail terrain.

Transmission elements have an enviable longevity. You only have to change the crosspieces cardan shaft, whose resource is 250-300 thousand km. Replacing crosspieces with balancing the driveshaft will require about 10,000 rubles. By this time, you may need to update the internal (from 3,000 rubles) or external CV joints (from 1,500 rubles).

Chassis

The suspension of the first Highlander is completely independent. At the front there are MacPherson struts, and at the rear there is a multi-link design, similar to that used in the Camry. The smooth ride, handling of bumps and reactions are reminiscent of a sedan.

The front-wheel-drive version feels lighter and more precise than the all-wheel-drive version, which experiences slight understeer. Steering provides decent feedback.

Chassis components last a long time. The first, after 120-180 thousand km, are the rear silent blocks of the front control arms. After 150-200 thousand km, it’s the turn of shock absorbers (from 5,000 rubles), and a little later - silent blocks of the rear levers. Front wheel bearings have to be changed after 200-300 thousand km (from 2,000 rubles).

After 250-300 thousand km, the power steering pump may howl (from 7,000 rubles). However, more often you have to deal with leaky power steering hoses (from 6,000 rubles) - they crack from old age.

Typical problems and malfunctions

The Highlander body is not prone to corrosion. Rust is more likely a sign body repair in the past. However, on older cars, local paint blistering occurs on the sills, tailgate, A-pillars or above the windshield.

Such a small thing as the gasket (O-ring) of the filler cap fuel tank often leads to errors and the simultaneous lighting of the Check, VCS and TRACK OFF indicators. The gasket loses its tightness after 200,000 km. The sealing ring can be selected, or the cover will have to be replaced (1.5-2 thousand rubles).

One of the common problems with cars with conventional air conditioning is the failure of the temperature or airflow controller. It's all about a broken cable that needs to be soldered.

After 250-300 thousand km, air of different temperatures sometimes begins to blow from the deflectors. The reason is a clogged heater radiator (from 2,000 rubles).

Highlander Hybrid

A hybrid version of the Highlander appeared in 2005. The Hybrid Synergy Drive power plant combines a 3.3-liter engine (3MZ-FE / 208 hp) and an electric motor-generator. In addition, it uses a continuously variable automatic transmission, and the steering system and water pump received an electric drive.

In hybrid models rear wheels are driven by an electric motor, which is prone to overheating in difficult terrain. In addition, with age, transistors in power keys expensive inverter. Fortunately, specialized services have learned to change them. This version also encountered problems with the steering rack.

Conclusion

The first-generation Toyota Highlander doesn't generate much passion among buyers. However, this car will delight its owners with comfort and reliability for many years and even decades. At the same time, we should not forget that time takes its toll, and Highlander I is no longer young.

The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover, one of a family of cars that are built on the Camry platform. The car enjoys well-deserved popularity and is considered by drivers as a worthy budget analogue to the Lexus RX station wagon. The history of creation begins back in 2000.

The model begins its journey at the New York Auto Show, which took place in the early 2000s. In the land of the rising sun, Highlander is known by another name – Toyota Kluger (translated from German as “reasonable”).

The United States is still the best place to sell this model. Under the name Kluger, the car was sold not only in Japan, but also in Australia. The first generation came in a 5-door or 7-door version. In all countries where the crossover was sold, both options were available. The basic unit for all countries has become four cylinder engine volume of 2.4 liters, which worked together with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Since 2003, in America, the car began to be offered with a six-cylinder engine from the 3MZ-FE series, the volume of which was 3.3 liters and 230 horsepower.

In Japan, the engine power was reduced - their version came with a 220-horsepower engine. In the fall of 2004, the world saw a hybrid subspecies of the Toyota Highlander, which came with a 3.3-liter V6 engine. The hybrid electric motor produced 270 horsepower. Since the launch of the car into production, two versions of the Toyota Highlander have been offered - front wheel drive and full. Cars with all-wheel drive equipped special transmission. In the US, sales broke all records. Between 2000 and 2007, 800 thousand copies of the Toyota Highlander were sold.

The emergence of the second and third generations

The second generation Toyota Highlander was again built on the Camry platform, but only with simplified all-wheel drive. This Toyota appeared before drivers in 2007 at the Chicago Auto Show. What has changed since the appearance of the long-awaited second generation of “highlanders”? First of all, the dimensions have increased:

• From 4684 mm the car stretched to 4785 mm;
• Width increased from 1826 to 1910 mm;
• The Highlander grew in height to 1760 mm;
• The wheelbase has become 2790 millimeters (previously it was 2715).

Buyers could choose a 5-seat or 7-seat version of the Highlander. Single-wheel drive modifications of the crossover have not gone away, as have hybrid versions (it was possible to switch from a 3.3-liter six-cylinder engine to a 3.5-liter unit). The hybrid engine once again bypassed the CIS countries and delighted only residents on the other side of the ocean.

It sold more in the States weak Toyota Highlander with a 2.7 liter engine (power 189 horsepower) with a 6-speed automatic transmission. And instead of the V6 3.0 liter and V6 3.3 engines on the first generation Highlanders, which produced up to 225 horsepower, a new V6 3.5 engine appeared, which had a power of 270 horsepower. Production of the second-generation car was launched not only in the homeland of the Toyota Highlander, but also in China and the States, which remained the main market for the model. During the period from 2007 to 2012, more than 500 thousand Toyota Highlanders were sold.

Toyota Highlander II (2010 facelift)

In 2012, Toyota announced a cost reduction by model range Highlander for the Russian market. And in fact, the price dropped by almost 200 thousand rubles. This gift from the Japanese was received thanks to the removal of a number of options from the standard equipment of the Toyota Highlander: three-zone climate control, leather seat trim, third row, roof rails.

Third generation Highlander

The third generation of Toyota Highlander was presented in the spring of 2013 at the New York Auto Show. The model is equipped with engines with a power of 249 and 188 horsepower, which have a volume of 3.5 and 2.7 liters. Only Highlander gasoline units are presented on the domestic market. The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Maximum speed the weakest modification is 180 km/h, and acceleration to 100 kilometers is 8.2 seconds.

Bottom line

The car still pleases drivers today; it confidently occupies the highest places in the sales rankings. The Japanese are determined to sell 11,000 copies of the crossover this year. And this is quite real, because the story of Highlander is not over yet.

This mid-size crossover debuted in Japan in 2000 under the name, and a year later the car entered the American market as the Highlander. The name "Kluger" was also used in Australia.

The car, created on the platform of the model, had a monocoque body, independent rear suspension and could not boast of outstanding off-road capabilities. The crossover was equipped with 2.4 (155 hp) and V6 3.0 (220 hp) gasoline engines, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Buyers were offered versions with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, and the car could have five or seven seats in the cabin.

In 2004, the previous six-cylinder engine was replaced with a new volume of 3.3 liters and a power of 225 hp. With. Such cars were already equipped with five-speed automatic transmissions. In 2005, a hybrid version of the Highlander went on sale, equipped with a 3.3-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor.

2nd generation (XU40), 2008–2013

In 2007 there was a generational change Toyota models Highlander. Its analogue under the name remained only in Australia; sales of the model on the Japanese market were discontinued. In addition to the American market, the Highlander was also sold in Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and China.

The crossover was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 hp. With. paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, as well as a hybrid power plant with a 3.3-liter “six” (later replaced by a 3.5-liter) and an electric motor. In 2008, a new basic version appeared with a 2.7 four-cylinder engine (188 horsepower), front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.

In 2010, the model was restyled, giving the car a different “facial expression,” and deliveries of the crossover to Russia and Ukraine began at the same time. We were supplied with a Toyota Highlander with a V6 3.5 engine (273 hp), a five-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and a seven-seater interior. Prices for the car started at about 1.6 million rubles.

In 2013, production of Highlanders at factories in Japan and the USA (the model began to be produced there in 2009) ended.