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USCar Trader import service
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Toyota
The Highlander is Toyota's mid-size, three-row family SUV, and it is one of America's best-selling models in the segment — which is precisely why the US used market offers such depth of choice.
Model profile
The Highlander launched for 2001 on a car-based platform, offering the space of an SUV with the manners of a sedan. The second generation (2008–2013) grew larger and added a hybrid option in the US. The third generation (2014–2019) sharpened the styling and improved the interior.
Powertrain and equipment
The workhorse engine for years was the 3.5-litre 2GR V6, producing around 270–295 hp depending on model year and paired with a six- or eight-speed automatic. It is a genuinely durable unit with a strong reputation.
US trims run L, LE, XLE, the off-road-styled TRD Sport (fourth gen), Limited and the top Platinum, the latter adding leather, a panoramic roof, a large touchscreen, a head-up display and a premium JBL audio system.
Vehicle selection
Supply is broad and steady.
A used Highlander from the USA is aimed at families who want a comfortable, reliable three-row SUV with proven Toyota mechanicals in a spec — colour, trim, hybrid system — that European Toyota dealers did not offer.
Vehicle data
| Body style | Typical figure (US-market): Five-door, three-row SUV (crossover) |
|---|---|
| Length | Typical figure (US-market): approx. 4,855–4,950 mm |
| Seating | Typical figure (US-market): 7 or 8 |
| Common petrol engine | Typical figure (US-market): 3.5 L 2GR V6 |
|---|---|
| Power (V6) | Typical figure (US-market): approx. 270–295 hp |
| Transmission | Typical figure (US-market): 6- or 8-speed automatic; eCVT (hybrid) |
| Drivetrain | Typical figure (US-market): FWD standard, AWD available |
| Fuel | Typical figure (US-market): Petrol / petrol-hybrid |
| Generations imported | Typical figure (US-market): 3rd gen (2014–2019), 4th gen (2020–) |
|---|---|
| Assembly plants | Typical figure (US-market): Princeton, Indiana (USA) and Japan |
| Hybrid | Typical figure (US-market): 3.5 V6 hybrid (earlier), 2.5 four hybrid (4th gen) |
| Top trims | Typical figure (US-market): Limited, Platinum |
| Origin | The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately. |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
The Highlander is one of the more dependable three-row SUVs on the market, but it is not flawless. Some 2014–2016 V6 cars showed early wear on the transmission and occasional torque-converter shudder; a fluid service history helps. Water can collect in the tail-light housings and cause moisture or bulb failures on some third-gen cars.
Germany and Europe
US Highlanders use amber front markers and red rear turn signals, run mph instrumentation and typically lack a rear fog lamp — all items the TÜV will expect to be corrected.
Start by selecting the generation, powertrain (V6 or hybrid) and trim that fit your needs.
US-market headlights use the FMVSS/SAE beam pattern, which differs from the ECE pattern required in the EU, so they may need adjustment or replacement with ECE-compliant units for registration.
USCar Trader services
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
The import process for a Toyota Highlander is planned around the specific listing, location, documents and commissioned service scope.
Questions and answers
The 3.5 V6 is smooth and simple; the hybrid — especially the fourth-gen 2.5 — offers markedly better fuel economy for family use. Choose on running-cost priorities.
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
Very, by class standards. The 2GR V6 and Toyota hybrid systems are known for longevity with routine maintenance; buy on documented history.
For shorter trips, yes; it is best sized for children or occasional adult use, which is normal for the segment.
Often yes, provided the service records are complete and the mechanical checks pass. Toyotas routinely cover high mileages.
The Grand Highlander is a larger, roomier companion model with a bigger third row, aimed at buyers needing more space.
It functions, but navigation maps and radio bands are US-based; smartphone mirroring is the usual workaround.
Generally a few weeks of transit plus the time needed for customs, TÜV and registration after arrival.
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