Have you ever wondered why you see so many Toyota Highlanders on Nigerian roads? There’s a good reason! The 2013-2018 Highlander, especially the 2015 model, is super popular. People are constantly trying to get their hands on one. But why? Let’s explore what makes this SUV such a hot commodity, and why its price remains surprisingly high.
Is the Highlander a Workhorse?
The Toyota Highlander from 2014 to 2019 has become a staple in Nigeria. You might see it and think, “It’s just another Toyota.” But there’s more to it than that. This car is a true workhorse. It’ll keep going and going until you decide to sell it.
What’s even more impressive is its resale value. When new, these Highlanders sold for between ₦27 and ₦32 million. Now, even the Nigerian used models can fetch as much as ₦24 million! That’s incredible. You really get your money’s worth out of this car. It’s a reliable vehicle that retains its value.
Exterior Analysis: Facelift vs. Pre-Facelift
One of the first things people notice about the Highlander is its appearance. There are a couple of different versions: the facelift (2017-2019) and the pre-facelift (2014-2016) models. The easiest way to tell them apart is by looking at the headlights.
The facelift version has a distinctive LED strip in the headlights. This gives it a more modern and stylish look. Many people prefer the facelift simply because it looks better. It’s more aesthetically pleasing.
Looking at the side, the Highlander has a “muscular” profile. It gives off a feeling of strength and confidence. It looks like the muscle of Toyota SUVs, strong and dependable.
The rear design also differs between the two versions. The pre-facelift models have all-red taillights, while the facelift models have a combination of red and white. The facelift version also features chrome accents, which add to its visual appeal.
The Highlander has a tall stance. This gives it a commanding presence on the road. It feels like you’re driving a proper SUV.
Finally, let’s talk about trim levels. The XLE trim, for example, comes with leather seats, while the LE trim doesn’t. This is a small detail that can make a big difference in comfort.
Trunk Space and Seating: Practicality and Utility
When it comes to practicality, the Highlander doesn’t disappoint. It has an automatic trunk, which is always a convenient feature.
Inside, you’ll find three rows of seats. However, the third row is a bit tight. It’s best suited for children and teenagers, not really ideal for adults on long journeys.
But here’s where the Highlander shines: you can fold down the seats to create a ton of cargo space. If you need to haul stuff, simply flatten the seats, and you’ve got a proper boot space.
This makes the Highlander perfect for family trips or any situation where you need to transport both people and cargo. If you’re traveling with a full load of passengers, just keep the third row up.
Interior Examination: Comfort vs. Luxury
Stepping inside the Highlander, it’s important to understand that this car prioritizes comfort over luxury. It’s not trying to be a high-end vehicle. It’s designed to be a comfortable and practical family SUV.
The first thing you’ll notice is how spacious it feels. There’s plenty of legroom and headroom. It genuinely feels like there’s space for everyone.
The rear AC controls are a nice touch, allowing passengers in the back to adjust the temperature to their liking. Plus, there are sunshades to block out the sun.
Up front, the seats are comfortable, even if they’re not the most luxurious. The center storage compartment is fully lined. This shows attention to detail.
The one area where the interior falls short is the infotainment system. It’s functional, but it doesn’t have that high-end feel. Also, you’ll find some plastic materials inside, especially around the glove box. The build quality isn’t quite premium, but that’s the trade-off for Toyota’s reliability. The glove box is not always perfectly aligned.
Starting Up and Features: A User-Friendly Experience
Starting up the Highlander, you’ll hear the engine come to life. Even in older models, you may find a CD player. If you still enjoy listening to CDs, this is a nice bonus.
Of course, there’s also Bluetooth connectivity for connecting your smartphone. The dual AC control is another great feature, allowing the driver and passenger to set different temperatures. The AC cools very well.
You’ll find storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a floating storage compartment near the gear selector. The cup holders are large enough to accommodate even the biggest drinks. They’re practically cooler holders!
The dashboard layout is very user-friendly. It’s simple and easy to navigate. This is a family car, so it needs to be easy for anyone to drive.
Engine and Transmission: Reliability and Power
Under the hood, the Highlander is powered by Toyota’s 2GR engine. This 3.5-liter V6 engine puts out around 301 horsepower.
The 2GR engine is known for its reliability. As long as you maintain it properly, it’ll last for years. This means using the right oil and servicing it on time. It uses a six-speed automatic transmission. It is smooth and responsive.
One of the best things about the 2GR engine is that most Nigerian mechanics can fix it. You don’t need to find a specialist. It is powerful and reliable, making the Highlander a practical choice.
On the Road: Driving Impressions and Performance
The Highlander starts up smoothly. There’s a lot of plastic in the interior. Toyota is trying to keep the price affordable for Nigerians. Reliability is a kind of luxury.
The six-speed transmission is smooth. The driving position is high, giving you a good view of the road.
The Highlander isn’t the fastest SUV. But it has enough power for daily driving. It is comfortable for everyday use.
This car can handle rough roads. Any problems you have are likely to be sensor issues. There are no recalls on this car.
Safety Warning: Avoiding Abrupt Maneuvers at High Speeds
It’s important to be aware of the Highlander’s limitations. Avoid making sharp turns at high speeds. There is a risk of rollover.
The sun visor has a warning label about this. Heed this warning to avoid accidents. The consequences can be severe.
Drive safely and responsibly.
Final Thoughts
The Highlander has some downsides. There’s a lot of plastic in the interior, and it might creak as the car ages.
But overall, the Highlander is reliable and dependable. It can handle various driving conditions. You can confidently buy it and travel.
Just make sure to service it properly. The Toyota Highlander is a solid SUV to own. It makes a great gift for parents or loved ones.
