2011 Toyota Highlander Base 2WD 3.5L V6 5-Spd Auto 3rd Row 157K
One-Owner Carfax With 23 Service Records Dealer Maintained By Kearny Mesa Toyota
For buyers seeking a reliable, spacious, and well-maintained midsize SUV, this 2011 Toyota Highlander SE 3.5L V6 2WD with 3rd row seating is an excellent choice. With 157,000 miles, a single-owner history, and a clean California title, this vehicle has been diligently cared for, as evidenced by its Carfax report showcasing 23 service records, reflecting consistent maintenance throughout its life. A minor cosmetic damage incident was reported in 2016, but airbags did not deploy, and the issue was professionally repaired with zero issues since. Finished in the timeless Classic Silver Metallic with a light gray cloth interior, it offers a clean, family-friendly look paired with practical functionality. Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission, this Highlander delivers robust performance and efficiency. As part of the second-generation Highlander, it embodies Toyota’s reputation for durability and family utility. This summary covers its history, specs, safety ratings, standout features, and a 10-point essentials list to highlight why this Highlander SE is a standout in the midsize SUV market.
Vehicle History and Generation Background
The 2011 Toyota Highlander SE belongs to the second generation of this popular midsize SUV, produced from 2008 to 2013. Launched in 2007 as a 2008 model, this generation marked a significant evolution for the Highlander, introducing a larger, more refined design with increased interior space, improved technology, and standard three-row seating compared to its predecessor. Assembled in Princeton, Indiana, and Japan, the second-gen Highlander became a top seller in the midsize SUV segment, competing with the Honda Pilot and Ford Flex. The 2011 model year brought updated styling, new front and rear fascias, and additional standard features like a split third-row seat, enhancing its family appeal. This specific Highlander SE, with its one-owner history, well-documented service record, and 2WD efficiency, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability, versatility, and practicality, making it a sought-after choice for families needing a spacious, capable SUV.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings
The 2011 Toyota Highlander SE 2WD is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth and spirited performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds—among the quickest in its class, as noted in historical Edmunds reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, with a combined 20 MPG, which is competitive for a V6-powered SUV with 3rd row seating, especially in 2WD configuration. The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or campers. These figures highlight its capability as a versatile family vehicle with enough power for both daily driving and weekend adventures, while maintaining efficiency that rivals many competitors of its era.
Comparison to Competitors of Its Era
In 2011, the midsize SUV market was highly competitive, with the Highlander facing rivals like the Honda Pilot, Ford Flex, and Mazda CX-9. The Highlander’s 270 hp V6 matched the CX-9’s output and edged out the Pilot’s 250 hp, while the Flex offered a 262 hp V6 or an optional 355 hp EcoBoost. The Highlander’s fuel economy (18/24 MPG) was on par with the Pilot (17/23 MPG) and better than the Flex (17/23 MPG) and CX-9 (17/24 MPG), making it a more efficient choice. Cargo space with seats folded (95.4 cubic feet) was slightly less than the Pilot’s 87 cubic feet but competitive with the CX-9’s 100.7 cubic feet and Flex’s 83.2 cubic feet. The Highlander excelled in reliability and refinement, with a quieter cabin and smoother ride than the Pilot, while the Flex offered more interior space but less dependability, as noted in Consumer Reports. The CX-9 provided sportier handling but lagged in long-term reliability. The Highlander’s blend of performance, efficiency, and durability made it a top pick for families prioritizing practicality and longevity.
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Safety is a key strength of the 2011 Toyota Highlander, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the 2WD model:
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Overall Vehicle Score: Not rated (NHTSA began overall ratings in 2011).
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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 seven airbags (including front, side, side curtain, and driver’s knee airbag), anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control, and hill-start assist, the Highlander earns top marks in side crash tests. The 4-star rollover rating is solid for an SUV of this era, providing confidence for family use. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also rated the 2011 Highlander highly, earning a “Good” score in most categories, further affirming its safety credentials.
Standout Features and SE Trim Differences
The 2011 Toyota Highlander SE 2WD offers a well-rounded suite of features, enhanced by its mid-tier SE trim, which bridges the gap between the base LE and upscale Limited models. The light gray cloth interior is durable and family-friendly, paired with the Classic Silver Metallic exterior for a sleek, timeless look. Key features include a power moonroof, a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system with CD player and auxiliary input, power driver’s seat, roof rails, fog lights, and a 40/20/40-split second-row seat with a removable center section for easy third-row access. The 3rd row seating accommodates seven passengers, though the third row’s limited legroom (29.9 inches) is best for children, as noted in Edmunds reviews. Cargo space expands from 10.3 cubic feet (behind the third row) to 95.4 cubic feet (with all rear seats folded). Compared to the LE, the SE adds leather upholstery on the steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a more premium appearance with fog lights and roof rails. The Limited, however, steps up with 19-inch alloy wheels, full leather seats, a JBL audio system, and keyless entry with push-button start. The 3.5L V6 features a metal timing chain, which never needs replacement, unlike a timing belt requiring service every 90,000–100,000 miles (a $500–$800 job), saving significant maintenance costs over the vehicle’s life. This engine’s durability, often lasting 200,000–300,000 miles with proper care, as reported in Consumer Reports, adds to the Highlander’s appeal for budget-conscious buyers.
Essentials
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Mileage: 157,000 miles—moderate for a 2011 model, with potential for many more.
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Ownership: One owner with a clean Carfax and 23 service records.
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Service History: Well-maintained with consistent servicing.
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Condition: Clean CA title, Classic Silver Metallic exterior, and light gray cloth interior in great shape.
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Engine: 3.5L V6 with 270 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque, featuring a metal timing chain.
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Transmission: 5-speed automatic for smooth, efficient performance.
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Safety: NHTSA 5-star frontal and side ratings (★★★★★), 4-star rollover (★★★★☆).
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Fuel Economy: 18 MPG city / 24 MPG highway, 20 MPG combined—competitive for its class.
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Features: SE trim with moonroof, backup camera, power liftgate, and 3rd row seating for seven.
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Reliability: Proven durability with a low-maintenance 3.5L V6 engine.
Why This Highlander Stands Out
This 2011 Toyota Highlander SE 2WD is a rare find with its single-owner history, 23 service records, and clean CA title, reflecting diligent care. The minor cosmetic damage reported in 2016, professionally repaired with no airbag deployment, ensures it’s in excellent condition with zero issues since. The 157,000 miles are modest for a Toyota known to last well beyond 200,000 miles, and the Classic Silver Metallic finish with light gray cloth interior offers a stylish, family-friendly package. The SE trim’s upgrades—like the power moonroof, backup camera, and power liftgate—add convenience and value over the LE, while the 3rd row seating for seven passengers enhances its utility. The 3.5L V6 with a metal timing chain ensures reliability and low maintenance costs, a significant advantage for long-term ownership. The second-gen Highlander’s reputation for reliability, efficiency, and practicality makes this 2011 SE model a standout in the used midsize SUV market for buyers seeking a dependable, family-oriented vehicle with a proven track record.
For a prospective buyer craving a midsize SUV with reliability, spaciousness, and a well-documented history, this 2011 Toyota Highlander SE 3.5L V6 2WD with 3rd row seating is a perfect match. Its service history, top safety ratings, and SE trim features make it a trustworthy companion, while the 3.5L V6’s durability and cost-saving metal timing chain enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its powerful engine, versatile interior, or the second generation’s refined design, this Highlander delivers. It’s a testament to the Highlander’s popularity—reliable, practical, and built to last. Take it for a spin to see why the 2011 Highlander remains a beloved choice over a decade later, ready to serve its next owner with the same dependability it’s always offered.

2011 Toyota Highlander se 2wd 3rd row
5TDZK3EH4BS046917
VIN5TDZK3EH4BS046917 | MakeToyota | ModelHighlander | Year2011 | TrimBase 2WD V6 |
Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR | Engine3.5L V6 DOHC 24V | Manufactured inPrinceton, Indiana | Age14 years |
Transmission5-Speed Automatic | VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct | History DataRecords Found |
Basic
Model Year | 2011 |
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Make | Toyota |
Model | Highlander |
Trim Level | Base 2WD V6 |
Manufactured in | Princeton, Indiana |
Body Style | SPORT UTILITY 4-DR |
Drivetrain
Engine Type | 3.5L V6 DOHC 24V |
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Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
Driveline | FWD |
Seating
Standard Seating | 7 |
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Fuel
Tank | 19.20 |
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Fuel Economy City | 18 |
Fuel Economy Highway | 24 |
Fuel Type | GAS |
Braking
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
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Front Brake Type | Disc |
Rear Brake Type | Disc |
ABS Brakes | Standard |
Wheels and Tires
Tires | 245/65R17 |
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Steel Wheels | N/A |
Weight
Standard Towing | 2000 |
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Maximum Towing | 5000 |
Standard Payload | 1755 |
Maximum Payload | 1755 |
Standard GVWR | 5800 |
Maximum GVWR | 5800 |
Dimensions
Turning Diameter | 38.70 |
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Front Headroom | 40.60 |
Rear Headroom | 40.10 |
Front Legroom | 43.20 |
Rear Legroom | 38.30 |
Front Shoulder Room | 59.70 |
Rear Shoulder Room | 59.50 |
Front Hip Room | 56.70 |
Rear Hip Room | 56.50 |
Overall Length | 188.40 |
Overall Width | 75.20 |
Overall Height | 68.10 |
Wheelbase | 109.80 |
Track Front | 64.00 |
Suspension
Front Suspension | Ind |
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Rear Suspension | Ind |
Front Spring Type | Coil |
Rear Spring Type | Coil |
Comfort
Air Conditioning | Standard |
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Safety
Child Safety Door Locks | Standard |
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Driver Airbag | Standard |
Front Side Airbag | Standard |
Passenger Airbag | Standard |
Keyless Entry | Standard |
Pricing
MSRP | $28,695 |
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Dealer Invoice | $26,196 |
Destination Charge | $810 |
Lighting
Automatic Headlights | Standard |
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Daytime Running Lights | Standard |
Fog Lights | Optional |
Features
Cruise Control | Standard |
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Heated Steering Wheel | N/A |
Leather Steering Wheel | N/A |
Colors
Interior Trim |
Ash Cloth Interior Black Cloth Interior Sand Beige Cloth Interior |
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Exterior Color |
Black Blizzard Pearl Classic Silver Metallic Cypress Pearl Magnetic Gray Metallic Nautical Blue Metallic Sandy Beach Metallic Shoreline Blue Pearl Sizzling Crimson Mica |
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