2012 Toyota Highlander: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Toyota Highlander is a true carryover with no major changes. It keeps the styling, engines, features, and three-row layout introduced or continued with the 2011 update.
About the 2012 Toyota Highlander
2nd generation Highlander (XU40), facelifted for 2011; 2012 is the middle year of that updated version, before the 2014 redesign.
Toyota positions the 2012 Highlander as a family-first midsize crossover that blends car-like comfort with SUV usefulness. Its core appeal is straightforward: standard seven-passenger seating, flexible cargo space, easy-to-use controls, strong safety coverage, and the choice of regular gas or hybrid power. Compared with many rivals, the Highlander leans less on flash and more on comfort, everyday versatility, and Toyota’s reputation for long-term reliability.
The 2012 lineup ranges from the practical seven-passenger base model to the comfort-focused SE and upscale Limited. The SE has leather-trimmed heated front seats, a moonroof, and a power liftgate, while the Limited adds a standard V6, three-zone climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start. Hybrid and Limited Hybrid models pair a V6-based hybrid system with standard electric AWD.
2012 Toyota Highlander specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.7 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.7 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter / V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Mode / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Sequential Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Mode / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Sequential Mode | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Sequential Mode / Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / AWD | 2WD / AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Hybrid | Gas / Hybrid |
| MPG City | 17–20 mpg | 17–20 mpg | 28 mpg | 18–28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22–25 mpg | 22–25 mpg | 28 mpg | 24–28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 187–270 hp | 187–270 hp | 280 hp | 270–280 hp |
| Torque | 186–248 lb-ft | 186–248 lb-ft | 215 lb-ft | 215–248 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 3500 lb | 3500–5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 95.4 cu-ft | 95.4 cu-ft | 94.1 cu-ft | 94.1–95.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 29.9 in | 29.9 in | 29.9 in | 29.9 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Heated Windshield | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Toyota Highlander compared with the 2011 model?
Nothing major changed for 2012. The Highlander carries over the same body, powertrains, safety equipment, technology, and three-row interior layout from 2011.
Was the 2012 Toyota Highlander redesigned?
No, the 2012 Highlander was not redesigned. It belongs to the second generation and carries forward the exterior update introduced for 2011.
What engines does the 2012 Toyota Highlander have?
The 2012 Highlander lineup includes a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter gas V6, and a 3.5-liter V6-based hybrid system. Hybrid models have standard electric AWD.
Does the 2012 Toyota Highlander have a third row?
Yes, the 2012 Highlander has a three-row interior. Its second row slides and reclines, and the split third row folds flat when more cargo room is needed.
Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
No, the 2012 Highlander is not meaningfully different from the 2011 model. Because the design and equipment largely carry over, vehicle condition, maintenance history, mileage, and trim are more useful comparison points.