2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD 3.3L V6 4-Spd Auto 1st Gen 177K
Hard To Find 1st Generation Highlander Limited V6 All-Wheel-Drive With Relatively Low Miles For The Year!
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For buyers seeking a reliable, versatile, and well-maintained midsize SUV with a touch of luxury, this 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD is an excellent choice. With 176,000 miles, a two-owner history, and a clean title, this vehicle has been diligently cared for, as evidenced by its clean Carfax report with 15 service records and minor damage reported in 2018 that did not compromise its structural integrity. Finished in the elegant Millennium Silver with a plush ivory leather interior, it combines a sophisticated look with practical all-wheel-drive capability. Powered by a 3.3L V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission, this Highlander Limited delivers robust performance and family-friendly utility. As part of the first-generation Highlander, it established Toyota’s reputation for durable SUVs. This summary covers its history, specs, safety ratings, standout features, and a 10-point essentials list to highlight why this Highlander Limited is a compelling option in the used midsize SUV market.
Vehicle History and Generation Background
The 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD belongs to the first generation of this popular midsize SUV, produced from 2001 to 2007. Introduced in late 2000 as a 2001 model, the Highlander was Toyota’s entry into the growing crossover SUV segment, built on the Camry platform to offer car-like handling with SUV versatility. Assembled in Japan and later in Princeton, Indiana, this generation bridged the gap between compact and mid-size SUVs, competing with the Honda Pilot and Ford Escape. The 2003 model year introduced the Limited trim, adding luxury features like leather seats and a power moonroof, while the AWD system enhanced its all-weather capability. This specific Highlander, with its two-owner history, clean Carfax, and 15 service records, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability and practicality, making it a sought-after choice for buyers needing a durable, family-oriented SUV despite the minor 2018 damage, which was professionally addressed.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings
The 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine (3MZ-FE) with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 220 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 222 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth and responsive performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds—competitive for its class, as noted in contemporary reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, with a combined 20 MPG, which is typical for an AWD midsize SUV of its era, though it requires premium unleaded fuel for optimal performance. The 19.1-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range for long trips. Equipped with the AWD system and a towing package, this Highlander can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for light loads like small trailers or jet skis—a capability that aligns with its practical design, as highlighted in owner feedback. These figures showcase its balance of power and efficiency for family use or light towing.
Comparison to Competitors of Its Era
In 2003, the compact to mid-size SUV market was competitive, with the Highlander facing rivals like the Honda Pilot, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute. The Highlander’s 220 hp V6 matched the Escape’s 200 hp V6 (base) but trailed the Pilot’s 240 hp V6, though it offered better fuel economy (18/22 MPG) than the Pilot (17/22 MPG) and Escape (18/23 MPG). Cargo space with seats folded (80.6 cubic feet) was competitive with the Pilot (81.5 cubic feet) but exceeded the Escape’s 65.6 cubic feet, though the Pilot’s third-row option gave it an edge for larger families. The Highlander’s car-like handling, derived from the Camry platform, outperformed the Escape’s truck-based feel and matched the Pilot’s ride quality, though it lacked the Pilot’s standard third row until 2004. Reliability was a standout, with the Highlander earning a 4.7/5 owner rating (Kelley Blue Book), outpacing the Escape (4.2/5) and Pilot (4.5/5), where issues like transmission failures were more common. The establishment narrative often hails the Pilot for versatility, but the Highlander’s durability and lower maintenance costs made it a preferred choice for buyers prioritizing longevity over initial features.
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Safety is a key aspect of the 2003 Toyota Highlander, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the AWD model:
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Overall Vehicle Score: ★★★★☆
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Frontal Crash (Driver): ★★★★☆
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Frontal Crash (Passenger): ★★★★☆
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Side Crash (Front Occupants): ★★★☆☆
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Side Crash (Rear Occupants): ★★★☆☆
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Rollover: ★★★★☆
Equipped with dual front airbags, optional side-impact airbags (standard on Limited), ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) on higher trims, the Highlander earns a 4-star rating for frontal crashes and rollover resistance. The 3-star side crash rating reflects the era’s limited side airbag availability, but its robust unibody construction provides confidence for family use. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2003 Highlander “Acceptable” in frontal offset tests, affirming its solid safety profile for the time.
Standout Features and Reliability of the 3.3L V6
The 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD offers a suite of features that blend luxury with practicality, making it ideal for families and adventurers. The ivory leather interior is plush and durable, paired with the Millennium Silver exterior for a sophisticated look. Standout features include heated front seats, a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, a power moonroof, a 6-speaker premium audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and a power rear liftgate. The AWD system enhances traction in adverse conditions, and the Limited trim adds fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and roof rails for added utility. The 40/60 split-folding second-row seats and 60/40 split-folding third-row seats (optional) provide flexible cargo space, expanding from 10.5 cubic feet (behind the third row) to 80.6 cubic feet (all rear seats folded). The 3.3L V6, derived from the Camry, is renowned for its reliability, often lasting 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance, as reported by owners on forums like ToyotaNation. Shared with models like the Sienna and Camry, this engine features a timing belt (requiring replacement every 90,000–100,000 miles, a $500–$800 cost) but no major design flaws, contrasting with some competitors’ V6 issues, making it a trusted powertrain for long-term ownership.
Essentials
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Mileage: 176,000 miles—moderate for a 2003 model, with potential for more with care.
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Ownership: Two owners with a clean Carfax; minor 2018 damage, professionally repaired.
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Service History: 15 service records showing consistent maintenance.
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Condition: Clean title, Millennium Silver exterior, and ivory leather interior in good shape.
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Engine: 3.3L V6 with 220 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque, Camry-derived.
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Transmission: 4-speed automatic with AWD for all-weather capability.
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Safety: NHTSA 4-star frontal and rollover ratings (★★★★☆), 3-star side (★★★☆☆).
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Fuel Economy: 18 MPG city / 22 MPG highway, 20 MPG combined—typical for AWD SUV.
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Features: Limited trim with leather seats, moonroof, premium audio, and AWD.
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Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs, suitable for light trailers or boats.
Why This Highlander Stands Out
This 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD is a standout with its moderate 176,000 miles, two-owner history, and clean title, reflecting solid care backed by 15 service records and a clean Carfax, despite minor 2018 damage that was professionally repaired with no structural issues. The Millennium Silver finish and ivory leather interior offer a luxurious, family-friendly package, enhanced by the Limited trim’s heated leather seats, moonroof, and premium audio—features that elevate it above base models. The AWD system ensures reliable performance in diverse conditions, while the 3.3L V6, borrowed from the Camry, delivers proven reliability, often exceeding 200,000 miles with routine maintenance like timing belt replacement. The first-gen Highlander’s reputation for durability and car-like handling, combined with its competitive standing against peers like the Honda Pilot and Ford Escape, makes this 2003 Limited a compelling choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting, versatile SUV with a rich service history.
For a prospective buyer craving a midsize SUV with luxury, reliability, and a well-documented past, this 2003 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD is an ideal match. Its moderate mileage, extensive service history, and solid NHTSA safety ratings make it a trustworthy companion, while the Limited trim’s upscale features and durable 3.3L V6 enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its smooth AWD performance, spacious interior, or the first generation’s pioneering design, this Highlander delivers. It’s a testament to the Highlander’s popularity—dependable, practical, and built to last. Take it for a test drive at 02:37 PM PDT on Thursday, June 26, 2025, to experience why this 2003 model remains a favored choice over two decades later, ready to serve its next owner with the same reliability it’s always offered.
2003 Toyota Highlander limited awd v6
JTEHF21A730145993
| VINJTEHF21A730145993 | MakeToyota | ModelHighlander | Year2003 | TrimVariable
|
| Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR | Engine3.0L V6 DOHC 24V | Manufactured inHonsha, Japan | Age22 years | |
| Transmission4-Speed Automatic | VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct | History DataRecords Found |
Basic
| Model Year | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander |
| Trim Level |
V6 4WD Limited V6 4WD |
| Manufactured in | Honsha, Japan |
| Body Style | SPORT UTILITY 4-DR |
Drivetrain
| Engine Type | 3.0L V6 DOHC 24V |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Driveline | 4WD |
Seating
| Standard Seating | 5 |
|---|
Fuel
| Tank | 19.80 |
|---|---|
| Fuel Economy City | 18 |
| Fuel Economy Highway | 22 |
| Fuel Type | GAS |
Braking
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
|---|---|
| Front Brake Type | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc |
| ABS Brakes | Standard |
Wheels and Tires
| Tires | 225/70R16 |
|---|---|
| Steel Wheels |
Std. N/A |
Weight
| Standard Towing | 2000 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing | 3500 |
| Standard Payload | 1105 |
| Maximum Payload | 1105 |
| Standard GVWR | 4985 |
| Maximum GVWR | 4985 |
Dimensions
| Turning Diameter | 37.40 |
|---|---|
| Front Headroom | 40.00 |
| Rear Headroom | 39.80 |
| Front Legroom | 40.70 |
| Rear Legroom | 36.40 |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.90 |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 57.00 |
| Front Hip Room | 55.10 |
| Rear Hip Room | 54.90 |
| Overall Length | 184.40 |
| Overall Width | 71.90 |
| Overall Height |
66.50 in. 68.70 in. |
| Wheelbase | 106.90 |
| Track Front | 62.00 |
Suspension
| Front Suspension | Ind |
|---|---|
| Rear Suspension | Ind |
| Front Spring Type | Coil |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil |
Comfort
| Air Conditioning | Standard |
|---|
Safety
| Child Safety Door Locks | Standard |
|---|---|
| Driver Airbag | Standard |
| Front Side Airbag | Optional |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard |
| Keyless Entry |
Opt. Std. |
Pricing
| MSRP |
$26,960 USD $31,095 USD |
|---|---|
| Dealer Invoice |
$23,993 USD $27,672 USD |
Lighting
| Automatic Headlights | Standard |
|---|---|
| Daytime Running Lights |
Opt. Std. |
| Fog Lights |
N/A Std. |
Features
| Cruise Control | Standard |
|---|---|
| Heated Steering Wheel | N/A |
| Leather Steering Wheel |
N/A Std. |
Colors
| Interior Trim |
Charcoal Cloth Interior Trim Ivory Cloth Interior Trim Ivory Leather Interior Trim |
|---|---|
| Exterior Color |
Black Bluestone Metallic Electric Green Mica Indigo Ink Pearl Millennium Silver Metallic Sundown Red Pearl Super White Vintage Gold Metallic |
Fuel Efficiency Rating
- City: 18
- Highway: 22
Actual rating will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition.
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