Inventory Listing

2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus: A Reliable Family SUV for the Modern Buyer

If you’re in the market for a dependable, spacious midsize SUV that balances comfort, performance, and longevity, this 2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus 3.5L V6 5-Speed Automatic 2WD with third-row seating is an excellent choice. With 140,000 miles on the odometer, this one-owner vehicle boasts a clean Carfax report, an impressive 31 service records, no accidents, and a clean title—indicators of meticulous care and reliability. Finished in the elegant Blizzard White Pearl exterior with a practical gray cloth interior, it offers seating for up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families, road trips, or daily commutes. Built on Toyota’s reputation for durability, this Highlander represents the final year of its second generation, combining proven engineering with modern conveniences. In the following summary, we’ll explore its key essentials, historical context, performance specs, standout features, reliability, and safety ratings to help you decide if this is the right vehicle for you.

 Essentials:

• Model and Trim: 2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus, equipped with a 3.5L DOHC V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive (2WD), including third-row seating for up to seven passengers.
• Mileage and Ownership: 140,000 miles, one-owner vehicle with a clean Carfax, 31 documented service records, no accidents, and a clean title, suggesting excellent maintenance history.
• Exterior and Interior: Blizzard White Pearl (070) paint with gray cloth interior, featuring durable materials and a spacious cabin with 40/20/40 split-folding second-row and 50/50 split third-row seats.
• Engine Performance: 3.5L V6 producing 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, paired with a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission for responsive acceleration.
• Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, offering a balance of power and efficiency for a V6 SUV.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for light trailers, boats, or recreational gear, making it versatile for weekend adventures.
• Safety Ratings: NHTSA overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with 4 stars for frontal crash (4 for driver, 5 for passenger), 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
• Dimensions and Capacity: Wheelbase of 109.8 inches, overall length of 188.4 inches, cargo space up to 95.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and a fuel tank capacity of 19.2 gallons for extended range.
• Standard Features: Includes air conditioning, cruise control, power windows/locks/mirrors, CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input, rearview camera (in Plus package), and hill-start assist for added convenience and safety.
• Reliability and Value: Powered by Toyota’s renowned 2GR-FE V6 engine, known for longevity beyond 200,000 miles with proper care; this well-maintained example offers great value in the used market, especially with its service history.

History of the Second-Generation Toyota Highlander

The second-generation Toyota Highlander, often referred to by its internal code XU40, was produced from 2008 to 2013, marking a significant evolution from its predecessor. Introduced as a larger, more refined midsize crossover SUV, it was built on an extended version of the Toyota Camry platform, sharing components with the Avalon for improved ride quality and space. This generation debuted at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show and went on sale for the 2008 model year, emphasizing family-friendly design with increased interior room, better handling, and enhanced powertrains. Production primarily occurred at Toyota’s Princeton, Indiana plant in the U.S., with some models assembled in Japan for export. Over its run, the Highlander received minor updates, including a 2011 refresh with revised styling and improved infotainment. By 2013, the final year, it had solidified its position as a bestseller, praised for blending minivan-like utility with SUV versatility. This era’s Highlander transitioned the model from a compact to a true midsize contender, setting the stage for the third generation’s more angular design in 2014.

Performance: Fuel Economy, Horsepower, Torque, and Towing Ratings

This 2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus is powered by a robust 3.5L V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, providing ample power for highway merging, overtaking, and loaded family drives. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, it achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined, which is respectable for a V6-powered SUV of its size and era—offering better efficiency than many competitors while maintaining strong performance. Real-world figures from owners often hover around 19-20 mpg overall, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. For towing, this 2WD V6 model can handle up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the appropriate hitch and accessories, making it capable for pulling small boats, campers, or utility trailers without straining the drivetrain. The vehicle’s hill-start assist and downhill assist control further enhance its capability on varied terrain, ensuring stability and confidence during hauls.

Best Features and Standout Aspects of This Particular Highlander

The 2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus shines with a host of family-oriented features that prioritize comfort, convenience, and versatility. Standard equipment includes a versatile interior with three-row seating in a CT Carpet/Cargo Mat configuration, allowing for easy folding of the 50/50 split third row to expand cargo space from 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row to a cavernous 95.4 cubic feet with all seats down. The Plus package adds desirable upgrades like a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror, fog lights, a power liftgate, and enhanced audio with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and music streaming—features that elevate daily usability without the premium price of higher trims. Other highlights from the spec sheet include projector-beam headlights, variable intermittent wipers, a rear window defogger with wiper de-icer, and a full suite of power accessories like heated outside mirrors and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls. The Easy-Clean Fabric interior in gray is durable and pet-friendly, while the 40/20/40 second-row seat with slide/recline function offers flexibility for passengers and gear.

What stands out about this particular vehicle is its impeccable history: as a one-owner SUV with 31 service records and a clean Carfax, it demonstrates consistent upkeep, likely contributing to its smooth operation at 140,000 miles. The Blizzard White Pearl exterior not only looks premium but also hides dirt well, and the gray cloth seats resist stains, making it practical for families. Reliability is a cornerstone here, powered by Toyota’s 2GR-FE 3.5L V6 engine, which is widely regarded as one of the brand’s most durable powerplants. This engine represents a significant upgrade over the previous generation’s 3.3L 3MZ-FE V6, which was used in the first-generation Highlander (2001-2007). The 2GR-FE features a metal timing chain that requires no scheduled replacement (unlike the 3MZ-FE’s timing belt, which needs changing every 90,000 miles and can lead to costly failures if neglected), boosting long-term reliability and reducing maintenance costs. It also delivers more horsepower (270 vs. around 230 in the 3.3L) and torque for quicker acceleration, while improving fuel efficiency through advanced variable valve timing and a higher compression ratio. Owners frequently report the 2GR-FE lasting well over 300,000 miles with basic oil changes, and it’s less prone to the head gasket or oil sludge issues seen in some older Toyota V6s. Combined with the Highlander’s solid unibody construction and independent suspension, this engine makes the vehicle exceptionally reliable, with low repair frequency and high resale value even at higher mileage.

NHTSA Safety Ratings

Safety is a strong suit for the 2013 Toyota Highlander, earning solid marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The overall vehicle score is 4 out of 5 stars, reflecting its balanced protection across various crash scenarios. In frontal crash tests, it received 4 stars overall, with 4 stars for the driver and 5 stars for the front passenger. Side crash ratings are exemplary at 5 stars overall, including 5 stars for both front and rear seat occupants. Rollover resistance, a key concern for SUVs, is rated at 4 out of 5 stars, aided by standard stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Additional safety features like front-seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, and active headrests contribute to its family-friendly profile. While not the absolute top in its class, these ratings, combined with Toyota’s Star Safety System (including enhanced vehicle stability control), provide peace of mind for everyday driving.

This 2013 Toyota Highlander Base Plus stands out as a smart buy for prospective owners seeking a versatile, reliable SUV without the frills of luxury models. Its proven V6 powertrain, spacious interior, and exceptional maintenance history make it ready for many more miles of service. At 140,000 miles, it’s just hitting its stride in Toyota terms, especially with the clean record and one-owner pedigree. If you value longevity, family utility, and cost-effective ownership, schedule a test drive—this Highlander could be your next reliable companion on the road. For more details, consult a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection to confirm its condition aligns with your needs.