Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base
With an overall Carivo score of 8.0/10, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.8/10, while Performance at 6.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Toyota Highlander Base's reliability at 8.8/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 8.6/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.9/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology comes in at 7.3/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $36,645–$45,895, 22 MPG, seating 7, the Toyota Highlander Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.9/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2022 Toyota Highlander Base ranks #180 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 93% of the segment. Its 8.0/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $36,645 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $36,079.
5-Year Cost Snapshot — 2022 Toyota Highlander Base
Fuel (75,000 miles)
~$11,930 ($2,386/year at $3.50/gal)
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Highlander Base Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Toyota Highlander Base scores 7.8/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 8.0 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Common Questions — 2022 Toyota Highlander Base
Is the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base reliable?
We rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base worth buying?
It scores 8.0/10 overall, ranking #180 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 93% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2022 Toyota Highlander Base cost?
The 2022 Toyota Highlander Base starts at $36,645 and ranges up to $45,895 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Highlander Base years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Highlander Base years we've rated are 2015 (7.6/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.1/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Highlander Base
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
