Auto Buyers Guide gave the 2027 Highlander a strong 87.5/100 rating, praising it as an entirely reimagined vehicle that delivers refined, upscale performance as a competitive battery electric three-row SUV. The standout strengths are its striking new hammerhead design with seamlessly integrated headlights (100/100), exceptional practicality with 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space and a 3,500-pound tow hitch (93.8/100), and forward-thinking tech features like NACS Tesla Supercharger compatibility and vehicle-to-load functionality (80/100). The main caveat is comfort, which scored lower at 66.7/100—specifically, front seats lack four-way lumbar support, offering only two-way adjustment, and the reviewer questioned whether the 338-horsepower output will feel adequate compared to more powerful options in Toyota's lineup. This Highlander suits buyers prioritizing cargo capacity, modern EV technology, and distinctive styling over premium seat adjustability and maximum performance.

Redline Reviews gave the 2024 Highlander XSE a solidly positive 60/100 OctaneScore, praising its value proposition at under $50,000 with destination and strong performance from the turbocharged 2.4L engine (265 hp, 310 lb-ft torque, 0-60 in 7.5 seconds). The cabin tech and livability scores are respectable at 62/100, with highlights including wireless Apple CarPlay, a standard power liftgate, and practical storage improvements, though the third row remains cramped with only 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space when up. The XSE's main weakness is its driving tech at 25/100—the backup camera lacks trajectory lines and resolution, while a 360 camera is unavailable on this trim, and the sport-tuned suspension doesn't fully compensate for these deficits. The Highlander XSE is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize value and fuel efficiency over cutting-edge driver assistance features, and who are willing to fold down the third row for practical use.

TheStraightPipes gave the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid a positive 62/100 score, expressing genuine surprise at how well-executed the vehicle is. The standout strengths are its class-leading interior quality (with a cabin that rivals a 2018 Lexus), exceptional fuel economy rated at 35 mpg combined with strong electric-only driving in Eco mode, and composed handling that doesn't feel trucky despite its size. The main drawbacks are underwhelming performance with noticeable torque steer on launch, a dated exterior design compared to the newer Grand Highlander, and a lane-centering feature that struggles to keep the vehicle centered on highway transitions. The Highlander Hybrid is best suited for practical buyers who prioritize comfort, efficiency, and interior quality over sportiness and cutting-edge styling.

Auto Buyers Guide gives the 2024 Toyota Highlander Grand a highly positive 91/100 OctaneScore, praising it as one of the best three-row crossovers in America. The vehicle excels in design and cabin technology—featuring aggressive LED headlights with a boxy upright theme and innovative features like USB-C charging integrated into third-row handles—while also delivering impressive performance (360 hp and 0-60 in 6.2 seconds on the Hybrid Max) and exceptional fuel economy (up to 36 mpg with the regular hybrid). Value is the lowest-rated dimension at 75/100, though the reviewer still notes competitive pricing with the base model starting at $43,870 and the Hybrid Max Limited offering strong horsepower at only $500 more than the Platinum trim. The Grand Highlander is ideal for buyers seeking a spacious, feature-rich three-row SUV that balances performance, efficiency, and modern technology without major compromises.