Inventory Listing

Thank you for your interest in this 2004 Toyota Highlander Base AWD with the optional third-row seat. This first-generation Highlander represents Toyota at its best — offering a smart balance of car-like driving dynamics, strong reliability, and genuine family utility in a package that was ahead of its time.

With only 107,000 miles, this one-owner vehicle comes with a clean Carfax report showing no accidents, a clean title, and an impressive 20 service records. Finished in Millennium Silver Metallic with light gray cloth interior, it has been well maintained throughout its life. The combination of low mileage for its age, single-owner history, and AWD capability makes this example increasingly difficult to find in today’s market.

NHTSA Safety Ratings

The 2004 Toyota Highlander received the following ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Frontal Crash – Driver: ★★★★☆
• Frontal Crash – Passenger: ★★★★☆
• Side Crash – Driver: ★★★★★
• Side Crash – Passenger: ★★★★★
• Rollover Resistance: ★★★★☆

Overall, the Highlander earned solid marks, particularly in side-impact protection, thanks to its unibody construction and standard safety features for the era.

Essentials

• Low Mileage for Age: At 107,000 miles on a 22-year-old vehicle, this Highlander has significantly below-average mileage.
• One-Owner History: Single owner since new, which typically indicates consistent and careful maintenance.
• Clean Carfax and Title: No accidents reported and a clean title, providing peace of mind.
• Extensive Service Records: 20 documented service records show regular maintenance has been performed.
• AWD Capability: Equipped with all-wheel drive, offering better traction in rain, snow, or light off-road conditions.
• Third-Row Seating: Includes the optional third row, making it a true seven-passenger vehicle.
• Reliable 3.3L V6 Engine: Powered by Toyota’s proven 3.3-liter V6, known for strong longevity and smooth performance.
• Car-Like Driving Experience: More refined and comfortable to drive than traditional truck-based SUVs of the era.
• Strong Resale and Reliability Reputation: Highlanders from this generation routinely exceed 250,000–300,000 miles with proper care.
• Increasingly Rare Find: Clean, low-mileage, one-owner examples with AWD and the third row are becoming harder to locate in good condition.

History of the Generation

The 2004 Toyota Highlander belongs to the first generation (2001–2007), which marked Toyota’s successful entry into the midsize crossover SUV segment. Introduced for the 2001 model year, the Highlander was built on the same platform as the Camry and was designed to offer a more car-like driving experience than traditional body-on-frame SUVs like the 4Runner or Land Cruiser. Production took place primarily in Japan and later in the United States. The first-generation Highlander was praised for its reliability, comfort, and value, helping Toyota capture a large share of the growing crossover market. The 2004 model year brought a significant powertrain upgrade with the introduction of the 3.3L V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy, Horsepower, and Torque Ratings

The 2004 Highlander is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine (3MZ-FE) that produces 230 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 242 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. When paired with the 5-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, it delivers adequate power for daily driving, highway merging, and light towing (rated up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped).

Fuel economy is rated at approximately 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 20 mpg combined for the AWD V6 model. While not class-leading in efficiency, the Highlander offered a good balance of power and economy for a midsize crossover of its time. Real-world mileage typically falls in the high teens to low 20s depending on driving conditions and whether AWD is engaged.

The Upgrade from 3.0L to 3.3L V6

One of the most important improvements for the 2004 model year was the switch from the previous 3.0L V6 to the larger and more powerful 3.3L V6, paired with a new 5-speed automatic transmission. The 3.3L engine delivered noticeably stronger acceleration and better passing power while maintaining strong reliability. The addition of the 5-speed automatic (up from a 4-speed) also improved highway refinement and fuel efficiency. This powertrain combination made the Highlander feel more responsive and modern compared to the earlier 3.0L models, while still offering the legendary Toyota durability that owners expected.

Rarity in Today’s Market

Finding a clean, one-owner 2004 Highlander with under 110,000 miles and AWD is becoming increasingly rare. Most examples from this era now exceed 150,000–200,000 miles, and many have had multiple owners or incomplete service histories. This particular vehicle’s combination of single-owner history, relatively low mileage, AWD capability, and third-row seating makes it a standout example. The extensive service records further support its strong condition and careful ownership.

How It Stacked Up Against the Competition

At the time, the Highlander competed against vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and Nissan Murano. While the Pilot offered similar reliability and space, many buyers preferred the Highlander’s smoother, more car-like ride and Toyota’s strong reputation for long-term dependability. The Explorer was more truck-like and less refined, while the TrailBlazer offered more off-road capability but poorer fuel economy. The Highlander stood out for its balance of comfort, reliability, and everyday usability, making it a top choice for families who didn’t need serious off-road ability.

What the Experts Have to Say

• Motor Trend: Praised the Highlander for its “comfortable ride, strong reliability, and car-like handling,” noting it as a practical alternative to traditional SUVs.
• Car and Driver: Described it as “refined and easy to live with,” highlighting its quiet cabin and composed highway manners compared to truck-based competitors.
• Edmunds: Gave the Highlander high marks for value and long-term ownership costs, frequently ranking it among the most dependable midsize crossovers of its generation.

In conclusion, this 2004 Toyota Highlander Base AWD offers a compelling combination of proven reliability, practical features, and strong value. With its clean one-owner history, low mileage for its age, and extensive service records, it represents an increasingly rare opportunity to own a well-maintained first-generation Highlander that’s ready for many more years of dependable service.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a viewing, please feel free to reach out.