2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum for sale in Java

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum: before you buy

We rent cars and sell one only now and then. There is no 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum for sale by us right now. Here is the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum for buyers: fuel use, size, recalls and a test drive that lasts a week.

Before you sign for the Highlander

Owners filed 546 complaints with NHTSA, most often about power train, service brakes and unknown or other; have those parts checked. There are 5 NHTSA recall campaigns on file; a dealer can check by the VIN whether each was done. Have a mechanic inspect a used one before you buy it. In Ontario, a used car needs a Safety Standards Certificate to be registered.

Under the hood

Under the hood: the 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid and front-wheel drive. As a hybrid, it does best in stop-and-go traffic, where the electric motor does more of the work. With front-wheel drive, the weight of the engine sits over the driven wheels, which helps in winter.

Combined fuel use is 6.6 L/100 km: about 20 litres for 300 km. In energy, every 100 km costs about $10.23 at our price setting. At US fuel prices, the EPA estimates US$1,850 a year for 15,000 miles.

What to expect from the Highlander

An SUV body means more headroom and a taller cargo opening than a car of the same length.

Who it is for

It suits a family trip where everyone and everything fits in one car. It suits someone whose own car is in the shop for a while.

Rent it for a week first

Rent the Highlander for a week, or up to 365 days, before you commit to buying one. A test week in the Highlander tells you more than any review. Renting first costs a fraction of the price of buying the wrong car.

Money matters

The EPA estimates US$1,850 a year in fuel for 15,000 miles at US prices. At our price setting, 100 km costs about $10.23 in fuel. Tires, brakes and batteries are the regular costs to budget for beyond fuel.

Choosing the right one

Set a budget that includes tax, licensing, insurance and the first set of tires. Write down the VIN of any car you consider; it unlocks the recall and service history. Ask the seller which trim it is; badges can be swapped and options vary.

Java and the Highlander

CarmaCars is based in Toronto, about 1,933 km from Java, and does not deliver there. If you are starting from Toronto, rent the car here and drive it to Java.

When you know your dates

Ask about renting first, and buy with a clear head.