Based on recent safety evaluations and accolades, the Toyota Highlander stands out as one of Toyota's safest vehicles, consistently earning top-tier safety ratings.
The Highlander has received significant recognition for its robust safety performance. For instance, the 2023 and 2024 Toyota Highlander models achieved the highest possible 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Furthermore, the 2023 Highlander was designated a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which is the organization's highest award for vehicle safety. These distinctions highlight the Highlander's exceptional crashworthiness and advanced safety features.
Key Safety Accolades for the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander's commitment to safety is underscored by its impressive list of awards:
| Model | Award/Rating | Year(s) | Issuing Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | 5-Star Overall Safety Rating | 2023, 2024 | NHTSA |
| Toyota Highlander | Top Safety Pick+ | 2023 | IIHS |
Understanding Safety Ratings: NHTSA and IIHS
To ensure vehicles meet stringent safety standards, independent organizations conduct rigorous testing:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): This U.S. government agency provides safety ratings based on various crash tests, including frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests. A 5-star rating indicates the highest level of safety performance.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): The IIHS is a non-profit organization that conducts its own crash tests and evaluates vehicle safety features. Their "Top Safety Pick+" award is granted to vehicles that perform exceptionally well in all crashworthiness tests and offer superior front crash prevention systems and good headlights.
Advanced Safety Features in Toyota Vehicles
Modern Toyota vehicles, including the Highlander, are equipped with sophisticated safety technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. A cornerstone of Toyota's safety philosophy is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a suite of integrated active safety features that includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Helps detect vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists and can apply automatic braking if a collision is imminent.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Provides an audible and visual warning if unintentional lane departure is detected and may provide corrective steering.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on lighting conditions and oncoming traffic.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): Displays certain road signs on the multi-information display.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane when DRCC is engaged.
Beyond these active systems, the Highlander also features robust passive safety elements, such as multiple airbags, a high-strength body structure, and advanced occupant restraint systems, all contributing to its overall safety profile.
