# Toyota Highlander — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Toyota Highlander on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-highlander

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Excel
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £34,491

## Why this model

The Toyota Highlander is a fantastic choice if you need a big, practical, and super reliable seven-seater SUV. It's only available as a hybrid in the UK, which means decent fuel economy for its size, especially around town. Toyota's hybrid system is tried and tested, offering excellent long-term durability and lower running costs compared to pure petrol or diesel rivals. It's comfortable, well-equipped, and holds its value really well, making it a smart long-term buy.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2021 Toyota Highlander Excel Hybrid with 30-50k miles typically sells for around £34,491. This is a strong price point for a car of this size and capability, reflecting Toyota's excellent reputation for reliability and the desirability of a large hybrid SUV. You might find slightly cheaper 'Design' models or pay a bit more for 'Excel Premium' versions, but the Excel trim hits the sweet spot for features and value.

## Which trim to buy

The Excel trim is our top pick for the Highlander. While the 'Design' is a good entry point, the 'Excel' adds some really desirable features like larger alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, heated front seats, and a powered tailgate, which make a big difference to daily usability and comfort. The 'Excel Premium' adds a panoramic roof and ventilated seats, but these often come with a significant price jump that doesn't always justify the extra cost on the used market, making the Excel the best balance of features and value.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system can be a bit slow to respond sometimes
- Some owners report minor wind noise at higher speeds
- Check for even tyre wear, especially on larger SUVs

## Running costs

Running costs for the Highlander are quite reasonable for a large SUV. Fuel economy is around 39-40 mpg, which at current petrol prices (approx. £1.50/litre or £6.82/gallon) works out to roughly 17-18 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for hybrids registered after April 2017 is currently £190 per year. Insurance will vary based on your personal circumstances, but expect it to be in line with other large family SUVs, likely in the £600-£1000 range annually. Servicing costs are generally competitive for a Toyota.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 248 hp
- **Mpg**: 39.8 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2021)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Design | £50,500 | £32,500 | 18-inch alloy wheels; 8-inch Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system; Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Excel | £53,500 | £34,491 | 20-inch alloy wheels; Satellite navigation; Heated front seats |
| Excel Premium | £56,500 | £37,000 | Panoramic roof; Ventilated front seats; Heated rear seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £34,491 | 0% |
| 2027 | £31,042 | 10% |
| 2028 | £28,625 | 17% |
| 2029 | £26,550 | 23% |
| 2030 | £24,500 | 29% |

Toyota vehicles, especially hybrids, are known for their strong residual values in the UK. This Highlander, being a 2021 model bought in 2026, has already taken its initial depreciation hit. While it will continue to depreciate, the curve shows a more gradual decline compared to many rivals. You're buying it at a point where the steepest drop is over, meaning you'll likely lose less money over your ownership period than if you bought it new. It's a solid investment that holds its value well.

Total value lost since new: 29%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Kia Sorento Hybrid
- Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
- [Skoda Kodiaq](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/skoda-kodiaq.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.