2014 Toyota Highlander LE

The 2014 Highlander is Toyota's three-row family SUV, sized between the compact RAV4 and the larger Sequoia. It drives with a smooth, easy-going character that suits its family role, though it's not quick when you need to pass. Inside, the cabin is roomy and versatile, with a fold-flat third row and plenty of space for people and cargo. Owners report strong reliability and low running costs, with few major issues beyond minor annoyances like a finicky infotainment screen. The LE is the base Highlander, so you skip the V6 and all-wheel drive of pricier trims, but you also save thousands and get Toyota's proven four-cylinder fuel economy. With the 2.7L I4 making 185 horsepower, this Highlander is fine around town but needs planning for highway merging; the six-speed automatic shifts smoothly and 22 mpg combined is a real benefit for a three-row SUV. The LE rides on smaller 18-inch wheels than the rest of the lineup, so the bump absorption is better, and it still seats eight with a fold-flat third row that doubles the cargo area.