2011 Toyota Highlander SE

The 2011 Highlander is Toyota's mid-size three-row SUV, a family hauler that competes with the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer. It's a comfortable cruiser that soaks up bumps well, though the steering is on the light side and the turning radius is a bit wide for parking lots. The cabin is roomy and practical, with a third row that folds flat to open up cargo space, and owners like the easy-to-use controls. Reliability is a strong point, with owners reporting few major issues, though some have noted finicky power windows and a rattling moonroof. The SE gives up the Limited's leather and power liftgate to save a few thousand dollars, but keeps the same 3.5L V6 and all-wheel drive. Its 3.5L V6 makes 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, routed through a five-speed automatic to all four wheels, and it's rated at 19 mpg combined. The SE's sport-tuned suspension firms up the ride a bit, which helps body control in corners but makes the cabin feel less isolated on rough pavement.