Can the Highlander go off-road?
3 Answers
The Highlander cannot go off-road. The Highlander is positioned as a midsize SUV and does not meet the requirements for off-roading. Taking the 2020 Highlander as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4890mm, width 1925mm, height 1715mm, with a wheelbase of 2790mm and a fuel tank capacity of 72.5 liters. The 2020 Highlander features a MacPherson strut front suspension and an E-type multi-link rear suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 220 PS, a maximum power of 165 kW, and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
I've driven the Highlander on rural dirt roads a few times before. Its intelligent four-wheel drive system comes in handy for light off-roading like mud pits or snowy terrain, and the tire grip is decent, making it capable of handling general unpaved roads. However, with a ground clearance of around 200mm, it's significantly lower than dedicated off-road vehicles, making it prone to scraping the undercarriage on deep pits or steep slopes. As a family SUV, its design leans toward comfort and fuel efficiency. It’s sufficient for daily rain or snow conditions or suburban trails, but don’t push it to tackle rocks or swamps—otherwise, the suspension and tires might not hold up, and the repair costs could be steep.
Friends driving the Highlander should be aware that it is primarily positioned as a city SUV. The four-wheel-drive version offers some assistance on slippery surfaces, such as increasing stability on snowy or light muddy roads, but its off-road performance is quite limited, lacking hardcore features like low-range four-wheel drive and differential locks. Based on my years of driving experience, if the road is full of potholes, the wheels can easily lose control at higher speeds, and the chassis may get damaged. Traction also drops significantly after rain. It is recommended to stick to paved roads as much as possible. If you do plan to go off-road, make sure to check tire wear beforehand to prioritize safety and avoid unexpected blowouts or damage.
