The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV designed for families and commuters who want everyday comfort, flexible seating, and a strong reputation for long-term dependability. It’s part of the fourth-generation Highlander introduced for 2020, with the 2022 model year focusing on refinements and expanded trim choices rather than a full redesign. In the market, it competes directly with SUVs like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Ford Explorer, standing out for fuel economy (especially the Hybrid) and resale value. It’s ideal for drivers who prioritize reliability, safety tech, and a smooth ride over maximum towing or off-road capability.

1) Engine choices for different priorities: Most 2022 Highlander models use a 3.5L V6 (295 hp) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering confident highway passing and available AWD. The Highlander Hybrid uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid system (243 combined hp) with an eCVT for excellent real-world efficiency. 2) Seating flexibility: Three-row seating for up to 7 or 8 passengers depending on whether the second row is captain’s chairs or a bench, plus a practical cargo area for strollers, luggage, and weekly errands. 3) Toyota Safety Sense suite: Standard advanced safety features including pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert/lane tracing, and automatic high beams. 4) Available premium upgrades: Depending on trim, available features include a larger infotainment display, premium audio, panoramic moonroof, heated/ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. 5) Confident towing for a family SUV: Properly equipped V6 models can tow up to about 5,000 pounds, making it capable for small campers, utility trailers, or lightweight boats.

Searches for “2022 Toyota Highlander problems,” “2022 Toyota Highlander reliability,” and “2022 Toyota Highlander common issues” often come from shoppers trying to separate minor annoyances from true deal-breakers. Overall, the 2022 Highlander is regarded as a reliable midsize SUV, but a few issues do show up in owner complaints and service discussions: 1) Infotainment glitches and connectivity dropouts: Some owners report intermittent Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connection issues, Bluetooth pairing problems, or screen freezing. These are often reported early in ownership (within the first 5,000–20,000 miles) and may be improved with software updates, cable changes, or head unit resets. 2) Transmission behavior complaints on V6 models: The 8-speed automatic can feel “busy,” with occasional harsh or delayed shifts at low speeds or during rolling stops. This is more of a drivability complaint than a failure and tends to be noticed in the first 10,000–30,000 miles. In many cases, a dealer inspection, software update, or adaptive learning reset can help. 3) Premature brake wear or noise: A number of owners mention squeaks/squeals, vibration, or earlier-than-expected pad wear, often somewhere around 20,000–40,000 miles depending on driving style and city traffic. Regular inspections and proper bedding-in of pads/rotors can reduce repeat issues. 4) Interior rattles and trim noises: Some 2022 Highlanders develop minor cabin rattles (dash/door area) over time, especially on rough roads. This is usually nuisance-level rather than a reliability concern, but it can affect perceived quality.