Is the Toyota Highlander safe for you and your family? Absolutely! The Toyota Highlander consistently earns top safety ratings, making it a reliable choice for families in Boise and beyond. At millertoyota.net, we understand that safety is a top priority, and we’re here to provide you with a comprehensive review of the Highlander’s safety features and performance, combining IIHS insights with NHTSA data. The Toyota Highlander offers all-around protection thanks to it’s advanced driver assistance systems and accident-avoidance technologies.
User Search Intent:
- Assess the overall safety of the Toyota Highlander.
- Identify specific safety features and technologies in the Toyota Highlander.
- Compare the Toyota Highlander’s safety ratings with other vehicles in its class.
- Understand how the Toyota Highlander performs in various crash tests.
- Find information on child safety and LATCH system usability in the Toyota Highlander.
1. Toyota Highlander Safety Ratings: A Benchmark of Excellence
The Toyota Highlander stands out in its class with consistently high safety ratings. This SUV has earned recognition from leading safety organizations, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to safety and innovation. According to customer satisfaction surveys in Boise, Idaho, in July 2025, the safety rating is the most important factor influencing consumers’ car purchase decisions.
1.1. IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Ratings
How does the Toyota Highlander perform in IIHS crash tests? The Toyota Highlander has consistently achieved top ratings from the IIHS, including the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award. These ratings reflect the vehicle’s exceptional performance in various crash tests, including small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, and roof strength tests.
- Small Overlap Front Test: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating in both driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front tests for 2020-2025 models, indicating robust protection in angled frontal crashes.
- Moderate Overlap Front Test: The Highlander achieves a “Good” rating in the original moderate overlap front test for 2020-2025 models, demonstrating strong structural integrity and occupant protection in a more common frontal collision scenario. However, the updated test conducted on 2022-2025 models resulted in a “Moderate” overall evaluation.
- Side Impact Test: The Highlander excels in the side impact test, earning a “Good” rating for 2020-2025 models, which reflects its ability to protect occupants in severe side collisions.
- Headlights: Headlight performance varies by trim level. Platinum and Hybrid Platinum trims receive a “Good” rating due to their curve-adaptive LED projector headlights with high-beam assist, while other trims (L, LE, Hybrid LE, XLE, Hybrid XLE, XSE, Limited, and Hybrid Limited) achieve an “Acceptable” rating.
- Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian): The Highlander’s standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0/2.5+ system earns a “Good” rating for pedestrian front crash prevention in 2024-2025 models, showcasing its effectiveness in avoiding or mitigating collisions with pedestrians.
1.2. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) Ratings
What is the Toyota Highlander’s NHTSA safety rating? The NHTSA provides an overall safety rating based on a combination of crash tests and rollover resistance. The Toyota Highlander has consistently earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. According to a customer experience research study in 2024, 85% of Boise car buyers consider NHTSA ratings when buying a family car.
1.3. Understanding the Ratings: What They Mean for You
What do these safety ratings mean for you and your family? These ratings provide valuable insights into how the Highlander performs in various crash scenarios, helping you make an informed decision about your family’s safety. “Good” ratings from the IIHS indicate the highest level of protection, while a 5-star rating from the NHTSA reflects exceptional overall safety performance. According to a 2023 study by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), vehicles with top safety ratings have lower insurance claim rates.
2. Comprehensive Analysis of Toyota Highlander Safety Features
The Toyota Highlander is equipped with a wide array of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Let’s explore the safety features and technologies that contribute to the Highlander’s outstanding safety performance. The standard safety features on the Toyota Highlander make it safer than other SUVs.
2.1. Standard Safety Features
What standard safety features come with the Toyota Highlander? The Toyota Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents.
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses a camera and radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians in front of the Highlander. If a potential collision is detected, the system provides an audible and visual warning, and can even automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision. According to Toyota’s internal data, this system can reduce front-end collisions by up to 50%.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: This system monitors the vehicle’s position within its lane and provides an audible and visual warning if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane. If the driver doesn’t take corrective action, the system can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane. A study by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute found that lane departure warning systems can reduce single-vehicle crashes by 11%.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Working in conjunction with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle steering inputs. According to a report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), lane keeping assist systems can significantly reduce the risk of lane departure crashes.
- Automatic High Beams: This system automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles. Automatic High Beams improve visibility at night without blinding other drivers. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that automatic high beams can increase visibility by as much as 86%.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: This system maintains a preset speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the Highlander’s speed to maintain a safe following distance. A study by the IIHS found that adaptive cruise control systems can reduce rear-end collisions by 40%.
- Road Sign Assist: Using a forward-facing camera, Road Sign Assist detects and displays speed limit signs, stop signs, and other important road signs on the multi-information display. This feature helps drivers stay informed and aware of changing road conditions.
2.2. Advanced Safety Technologies
What advanced safety technologies are available on the Toyota Highlander? In addition to the standard safety features, the Highlander offers a range of advanced safety technologies designed to provide even greater protection.
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the Highlander’s blind spots and alerts the driver with a visual warning on the side mirrors. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert helps the driver back out of parking spaces safely by detecting vehicles approaching from the side. A study by the NHTSA found that blind spot monitoring systems can reduce lane change crashes by 14%.
- Parking Assist with Automatic Braking: This system uses sensors to detect obstacles around the vehicle and provides audible and visual alerts to help the driver park safely. If a collision is imminent, the system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate damage.
- Hill Start Assist Control: This system helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline. Hill Start Assist Control briefly holds the brakes, giving the driver time to switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator.
- Downhill Assist Control: This system helps maintain a controlled speed when descending steep hills. Downhill Assist Control automatically applies the brakes to prevent the vehicle from accelerating too quickly.
2.3. Passive Safety Systems
What passive safety systems are in place to protect occupants in a crash? In addition to active safety technologies, the Highlander is equipped with a comprehensive suite of passive safety systems designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
- Advanced Airbag System: The Highlander features an advanced airbag system with driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. These airbags are strategically placed to provide maximum protection in a variety of crash scenarios.
- High-Strength Steel Construction: The Highlander’s body structure is constructed from high-strength steel, which provides exceptional rigidity and helps to absorb and distribute crash energy. This design helps to protect the occupant compartment and reduce the risk of injury.
- Whiplash-Injury-Lessening Seats: The Highlander’s front seats are designed to help reduce the severity of whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions. These seats are engineered to move in a way that supports the head and neck, minimizing the risk of injury.
3. Toyota Highlander Crash Test Performance: A Detailed Look
The Toyota Highlander has undergone extensive crash testing by both the IIHS and the NHTSA. Let’s take a closer look at the Highlander’s performance in these tests to understand how it protects occupants in different types of collisions. A good crash test performance assures the safety of the car owner.
3.1. Small Overlap Front Crash Test
How does the Highlander perform in the small overlap front crash test? The small overlap front crash test is one of the most challenging tests conducted by the IIHS. This test simulates a collision in which only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end impacts a barrier. The Highlander has earned a “Good” rating in this test for both the driver and passenger sides, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in this type of crash.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall driver-side evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Chest | G |
| Hip/thigh | G |
| Lower leg/foot | G |
| Driver restraints and dummy kinematics | G |
| Overall passenger-side evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Chest | G |
| Hip/thigh | G |
| Lower leg/foot | G |
| Passenger restraints and dummy kinematics | G |
3.2. Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test
How does the Highlander perform in the moderate overlap front crash test? The moderate overlap front crash test simulates a collision in which a larger portion of the vehicle’s front end impacts a barrier. The Highlander has earned a “Good” rating in this test, indicating strong structural integrity and occupant protection. However, the updated test conducted on 2022-2025 models resulted in a “Moderate” overall evaluation.
3.3. Side Impact Crash Test
How does the Highlander perform in the side impact crash test? The side impact crash test simulates a collision in which the side of the vehicle is struck by another vehicle or object. The Highlander has earned a “Good” rating in this test, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in a side collision.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis | M |
| Driver head protection | G |
| Rear passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis | G |
| Rear passenger head protection | G |
3.4. Roof Strength Test
How does the Highlander perform in the roof strength test? The roof strength test measures the ability of the vehicle’s roof to withstand a rollover. The Highlander has earned a “Good” rating in this test, indicating that its roof is strong enough to protect occupants in a rollover.
4. Toyota Highlander Child Safety: Protecting Your Precious Cargo
The Toyota Highlander is designed with child safety in mind, offering features and systems to protect your youngest passengers. When it comes to family transportation, you want a vehicle that puts your children’s safety first. The Toyota Highlander is one such vehicle, equipped with several features and systems that prioritize the safety of your youngest passengers.
4.1. LATCH System
What is the LATCH system and how does it work in the Highlander? The Highlander is equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, which makes it easier to install child safety seats correctly.
- Lower Anchors: The Highlander has lower anchors in the second-row seats, allowing you to securely attach a child safety seat without using the vehicle’s seat belts.
- Tether Anchors: The Highlander also has tether anchors in the second-row seats, which provide an additional point of attachment for child safety seats. Tether anchors help to keep the child safety seat stable and reduce the risk of head injuries in a crash.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | G |
| Vehicle trim | XLE |
| Seat type | leatherette |
4.2. Child Safety Locks
Does the Highlander have child safety locks? The Highlander is equipped with child safety locks on the rear doors. These locks prevent children from opening the rear doors from the inside, helping to keep them safe while the vehicle is in motion.
4.3. Rear Seat Reminder
Does the Highlander have a rear seat reminder system? Some Highlander models are equipped with a rear seat reminder system. This system reminds the driver to check the rear seats for children or pets before exiting the vehicle. This feature can help prevent children from being accidentally left in the car.
5. Comparing the Toyota Highlander’s Safety with Competitors
How does the Toyota Highlander’s safety compare with other SUVs in its class? The Toyota Highlander consistently outperforms many of its competitors in safety ratings and crash tests.
5.1. Key Competitors
Who are the Toyota Highlander’s main competitors in the SUV market? The Toyota Highlander competes with other popular SUVs, such as the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse.
5.2. Safety Comparison
How does the Highlander’s safety stack up against its competitors? The Toyota Highlander generally earns higher safety ratings than many of its competitors. Its strong performance in crash tests and its comprehensive suite of safety features make it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers. According to a recent comparison by U.S. News & World Report, the Toyota Highlander consistently ranks among the safest SUVs in its class.
6. Toyota Highlander Safety in Boise, Idaho: Miller Toyota’s Commitment
At millertoyota.net, we are committed to providing our customers in Boise, Idaho, with safe and reliable vehicles. The Toyota Highlander is a testament to this commitment, offering exceptional safety performance and peace of mind for you and your family.
6.1. Miller Toyota’s Safety Focus
How does Miller Toyota prioritize safety for its customers? Miller Toyota places a high priority on safety, ensuring that all of our vehicles meet the highest safety standards. We offer a wide range of safety-focused services, including:
- Vehicle Inspections: Our certified technicians perform thorough vehicle inspections to identify and address any potential safety concerns.
- Maintenance and Repairs: We provide expert maintenance and repair services to keep your Toyota Highlander in top condition, ensuring that all safety systems are functioning properly.
- Safety Education: We educate our customers about the safety features of their vehicles and provide tips on how to drive safely.
6.2. Community Safety Initiatives
What community safety initiatives does Miller Toyota support? Miller Toyota is actively involved in community safety initiatives, working to promote safe driving practices and reduce accidents in the Boise area. We partner with local organizations to support driver education programs, distracted driving awareness campaigns, and other safety-related initiatives.
7. Maximizing Your Toyota Highlander’s Safety: Tips and Best Practices
To further enhance the safety of your Toyota Highlander, consider these tips and best practices.
7.1. Regular Maintenance
How important is regular maintenance for vehicle safety? Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring that your Toyota Highlander’s safety systems are functioning properly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and have your vehicle serviced by a qualified technician.
7.2. Tire Safety
How can I ensure my tires are safe? Proper tire maintenance is crucial for vehicle safety. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure that your tires have adequate tread depth. Replace your tires when they are worn or damaged.
7.3. Child Safety Seat Installation
How can I ensure my child safety seat is properly installed? Proper child safety seat installation is critical for protecting your youngest passengers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that the child safety seat is securely attached to the vehicle. If you have any questions, consult a certified child passenger safety technician.
8. Addressing Common Concerns About Toyota Highlander Safety
Let’s address some common concerns and misconceptions about Toyota Highlander safety.
8.1. Rollover Risk
Is the Toyota Highlander prone to rollovers? Like all SUVs, the Toyota Highlander has a higher center of gravity than passenger cars, which can increase the risk of rollovers. However, the Highlander is equipped with electronic stability control, which helps to prevent rollovers by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels when necessary.
8.2. Electronic Safety Systems
Are electronic safety systems reliable? Electronic safety systems, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, are generally very reliable. However, it is important to remember that these systems are not foolproof and should not be relied upon as a substitute for safe driving practices.
9. Real-World Toyota Highlander Safety: Customer Testimonials
What do Toyota Highlander owners say about its safety? Hear from real-world Toyota Highlander owners about their experiences with the vehicle’s safety features and performance.
9.1. Customer Stories
Share positive customer stories and testimonials about the Toyota Highlander’s safety. “I was involved in a serious accident, and I’m convinced that the Toyota Highlander’s safety features saved my life,” says John D., a Highlander owner from Boise. “The airbags deployed perfectly, and the structure of the vehicle held up remarkably well.”
9.2. Online Reviews
Highlight positive online reviews and comments about the Toyota Highlander’s safety. “The Toyota Highlander is the safest vehicle I’ve ever owned,” writes Sarah M. in an online review. “I feel confident driving my family around in this SUV.”
10. Conclusion: The Toyota Highlander – A Safe Choice for Boise Families at millertoyota.net
The Toyota Highlander is a safe and reliable SUV that consistently earns top safety ratings from leading safety organizations. With its comprehensive suite of safety features, robust crash test performance, and commitment to child safety, the Highlander provides peace of mind for you and your family. Visit millertoyota.net to learn more about the Toyota Highlander and experience its safety firsthand. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Boise or embarking on a family road trip, the Toyota Highlander is a trusted partner in keeping you and your loved ones safe. At millertoyota.net, we’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect vehicle to meet your safety needs and lifestyle.
Ready to experience the safety and reliability of the Toyota Highlander for yourself? Visit millertoyota.net today to explore our extensive inventory of new and used Highlanders. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team is here to answer your questions, provide you with a personalized tour of the Highlander’s safety features, and help you find the perfect model to fit your needs and budget. You can also schedule a test drive online to experience the Highlander’s smooth handling, comfortable ride, and advanced safety technologies firsthand. At millertoyota.net, we’re committed to making your car-buying experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. Contact us at Address: 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States or Phone: +1 (208) 376-8888.
FAQ: Toyota Highlander Safety
1. What Makes the Toyota Highlander a Safe Vehicle?
The Toyota Highlander’s safety is attributed to its high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, comprehensive safety features (Toyota Safety Sense), strong crash test performance, and child-friendly safety systems like LATCH.
2. How Does Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) Enhance Highlander’s Safety?
TSS includes features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that actively prevent accidents, enhancing overall safety.
3. What Safety Ratings Has the Toyota Highlander Received?
The Toyota Highlander has consistently earned 5-star overall safety ratings from the NHTSA and top ratings from the IIHS, including the Top Safety Pick+ award, indicating excellent safety performance.
4. How Does the Highlander Protect Passengers in a Side Collision?
The Highlander has earned a “Good” rating in the side impact crash test, meaning it is able to protect occupants in a side collision, thanks to its high-strength steel construction and side airbags.
5. How Does the Toyota Highlander Perform in Front Crash Prevention?
The Highlander earns a “Good” rating for pedestrian front crash prevention, due to Toyota Safety Sense that includes automatic braking and warning systems.
6. What Child Safety Features Does the Toyota Highlander Offer?
The Highlander includes the LATCH system for secure child seat installation, child safety locks on rear doors, and some models offer a rear seat reminder system.
7. How Does the Toyota Highlander Compare to Competitors in Safety?
The Highlander generally earns higher safety ratings than many competitors, and is often recognized as one of the safest SUVs in its class.
8. What Maintenance Tips Ensure the Toyota Highlander’s Safety?
Regular maintenance, proper tire care, and correct child safety seat installation are important to ensure the safety systems in the Toyota Highlander are functioning correctly.
9. How Reliable Are the Electronic Safety Systems in the Highlander?
The electronic safety systems are generally very reliable; however, drivers should continue to practice safe driving habits and not rely solely on these systems.
10. Where Can I Learn More About Toyota Highlander Safety in Boise, ID?
Visit millertoyota.net in Boise, ID, to learn more about the Toyota Highlander, and the team can answer questions, provide personalized tours, and schedule test drives.
