Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2017 Toyota Highlander S
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2017 Toyota Highlander S earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.4/10, while Performance at 6.5/10 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. Reliability comes in at 8.4/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 8.3/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.5/10 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 7.4/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $35,417–$46,172, 17 MPG, seating 7, the Toyota Highlander S sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.4/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 9 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2017 Toyota Highlander S 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 2017 Toyota Highlander S ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $35,417 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $36,079.
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 S Year Should You Buy?
Across the Highlander S model years we've scored, the 2017 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
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
Fuel economy at 17 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2017 Toyota Highlander S
Is the 2017 Toyota Highlander S reliable?
We rate the 2017 Toyota Highlander S's reliability 8.4/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2017 Toyota Highlander S worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2017 Toyota Highlander S cost?
The 2017 Toyota Highlander S starts at $35,417 and ranges up to $46,172 across trims (MSRP when new). At 17 MPG, expect roughly $3,088/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Highlander S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Highlander S years we've rated are 2017 (7.6/10), 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 S
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More Toyota Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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