Toyota 2013 Highlander Manual

Highlander2013

From its roomy versatility to its
many thoughtful amenities, the
2013 Highlander was designed to
help active and growing families
get the very most out of life.
These days, life can be filled with challenges. Fortunately, the 2013 Toyota
Highlander is filled with solutions. Its versatile interior offers comfortable
seating for up to seven, and amenities for everyone. It provides an array
of advanced safety features. It delivers responsive performance, while
achieving remarkable fuel efficiency. And as you might expect, it offers
Toyota’s legendary reliability. All this, wrapped in a sleek, handsome exterior.
With a variety of trim levels to choose from, including Highlander, Highlander
Plus, SE and Limited, there’s sure to be a model that’s just right for you. In
fact, you can even get one with the eco-advanced technology of Hybrid
Synergy Drive.
®But Highlander shines especially brightly when it’s filled with
one thing in particular: your family. 2013 Toyota Highlander.

Limited shown in Classic Silver Metallic with available accessory roof rack cross bars.

Available in two lines of thoughtful.
Whether you decide to go with the Highlander or the Highlander Hybrid, you’ll be
driving a vehicle you can feel good about. In addition to their different approaches to
power, each model also has its own distinct styling. But the choices don’t stop there:
Highlander is available with either 2- or 4-Wheel Drive and with a 4- or 6-cylinder engine.
Looks like Highlander has thought of everything.
SE shown in Nautical Blue Metallic with available accessory roof rack cross bars. Hybrid Limited shown on right in Predawn Gray Mica.

Transporting seven people is one thing; making sure everyone enjoys the ride is quite
another. Remarkably, Highlander does both. The seats are engineered to offer both
comfort and versatility. Gauges are easy to read and controls are readily at hand. And
the advanced navigation and entertainment systems add convenience, information and
fun. You might just find that when it comes to spending quality time together, the sit-down
family dinner has met its match.
Seats one big happy family.
Display Audio With Navigation,
1Entune®2 and JBL®
Standard on Limited and Hybrid Limited, the Display Audio system with
Navigation, Entune®and JBL®includes a 6.1-in. touch-screen with integrated
backup camera3display, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback
capability, nine JBL®speakers including subwoofer, and SiriusXM Radio4
with a 90-day complimentary trial. The system also includes HD Radio™5with
iTunes®Tagging,
6auxiliary audio jack, USB port7with iPod®8 connectivity and
control, and hands-free phone capability, phone book access, advanced
voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth®9 wireless technology.
Smart Key System10
Highlander’s available Smart Key System offers you an added bit of
convenience. When you approach the vehicle with the Smart Key fob in your
pocket or purse, the interior illuminates automatically. The doors unlock
when you touch either front door handle, the power liftgate opens with the
touch of its handle, and the engine starts with the push of a button.
Rear-Seat DVD Entertainment System
If the scenery isn’t grabbing their attention, rear passengers can while away
the miles by watching movies or playing games on the available rear-seat
DVD entertainment system11 featuring a 9-in. display. Better yet, with
wireless headphones,
12 they can enjoy their entertainment without distracting
the other passengers.
1. See footnote 14 in Disclosures section. 2. See footnote 15 in Disclosures section.
3. See footnote 10 in Disclosures section. 4. See footnote 16 in Disclosures section. 5. See
footnote 17 in Disclosures section. 6. See footnote 18 in Disclosures section. 7. See footnote
11 in Disclosures section. 8. See footnote 12 in Disclosures section. 9. See footnote 13 in
Disclosures section. 10. See footnote 21 in Disclosures section. 11. Available on Highlander
Limited and Hybrid Limited models only. 12. See footnote 20 in Disclosures section.
With your compatible smartphone, the
available Entune®multimedia system
helps make any trip more entertaining
and informative. Enjoy three years of
complimentary access to apps like
Bing,
™
iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com,
OpenTable®and Pandora.
®You’ll also
enjoy updates on fuel prices, sports,
stocks, traffic and weather.
Parents will appreciate the
standard conversation mirror that
allows them to make eye contact
with those in back. Located
above the rearview mirror, it also
conceals a storage compartment
for sunglasses.
On Limited and Hybrid Limited
models, the driver can extend the
cushion on the perforated leather-
trimmed driver’s seat with the
push of a button. There’s nothing
like a little extra thigh support to
further ease the journey.
With the drop-down 9-in. screen
on the available rear-seat DVD
entertainment system, second-row
passengers can watch the latest
movie blockbuster or play video
games. Your kids may never ask
“Are we there yet?” again.

Limited interior shown in Sand Beige.

Whether you’re taking the gang to hockey practice or helping your eldest move into their
college dorm, Highlander is up to the task. Within moments, the second- and third-row
seats fold flat, opening up 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space1for all sorts of bulky items.
And there’s stadium seating to enhance the sense of space for those in the second and
third rows. So no matter what you’ve brought along for the ride — passengers, cargo or
both — Highlander handles it all with ease.
Kids change quickly.
So does Highlander.
Center Stow™System
A perfect example of Highlander’s incredible versatility is its Center Stow™
system. Beneath the center console, there’s a Center Stow™seat you can pull
out, lock in place between the second-row captain’s chairs and fold open. Or
replace it with the Center Stow™console to hold drinks and smaller items.
Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control
With the three-zone automatic climate control system and air filter found in
Limited and Hybrid Limited, every occupant can ride in total comfort. The
system offers dual zone climate control in the front, a separate second-row
control panel, and vents for the second- and third-row seats, so everyone
can optimize their own cabin environment.
1. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
With the available power liftgate,
there are two convenient ways
to access the roomy cargo area.
When loading bulky items, open
the entire power liftgate. Or, if
you just have a small item to load,
pop the available lift-up glass
hatch. Either way, you won’t need
to use a key.

SE interior shown in Ash leather trim.
Seating for up to Seven
Highlander’s 50/50 split third-row seat makes seating for seven not only
possible, but also comfortable. The second-row seat reclines, slides and
features armrests on the outboard seats. Plus, the passenger side has a
one-touch lever that allows you to fold and slide the seats forward to
make access to the third row that much easier.
A growing family’s gear comes in
all shapes and sizes. That’s why
Highlander offers as standard
equipment a 50/50 split third-row
seat. This versatile feature allows
you to transport long or unwieldy
cargo, while still allowing you to
take up to six passengers.

SE shown in Magnetic Gray Metallic with available accessory roof rack cross bars and available Display Audio with Navigation1and Entune.
®2
1. See footnote 14 in Disclosures section. 2. See footnote 15 in Disclosures section.

The 4-cylinder and V6 models
of the 2013 Highlander earned
an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II
(ULEV-II) rating. This designation
means the Highlander produces
extremely low average amounts
of smog-forming emissions
compared to new cars of the
same model year.
Highlander’s all-around smart performance is due in part to a technology called Dual
Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i).This advanced system knows precisely how
to adjust the valve timing to optimize the engine’s “breathing” and maximize performance.
So whether you’re passing on a hill, tooling around town or just sitting at idle, Highlander
always delivers high marks in power, efficiency and reduced emissions.
The intelligence to pass
on any grade.
2.7-Liter 4-Cylinder
Highlander’s fuel-efficient 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine uses Dual VVT-i to help
generate 187 hp and 186 lb.-ft. of torque. Dual VVT-i precisely times the
opening and closing of the engine’s intake and exhaust valves to maximize
power while reducing its fuel consumption. When coupled with a 6-speed
Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i),
this engine allows Highlander to get an EPA-estimated 25 highway mpg.
1
3.5-Liter V6
Drivers interested in more power should go with the available 24-valve V6.
The powerful engine uses a Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) and Dual
VVT-i to deliver 270 hp and 248 lb.-ft. of torque with an EPA-estimated
24 highway mpg.
2
1. 2013 EPA-estimated mileage for Highlander 4-cylinder 2WD models. Actual mileage will vary. 2. 2013 EPA-estimated mileage for Highlander V6 2WD models. Actual mileage will vary.
Highlander Plus shown in Magnetic Gray Metallic.

Hybrid Limited shown in Shoreline Blue Pearl.

With an EPA-estimated 28 city/highway mpg1 and a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV)
rating,
2Highlander Hybrid is engineered with future generations in mind. While you may
be familiar with its environmental attributes, you may not know that it also offers the same
level of performance as the non-hybrid V6. In fact, its gasoline engine and Hybrid Synergy
Drive®
produce an impressive 280 net horsepower. Altruism has never been so much fun.
Engineered for your kids.
And theirs.
Energy Monitor
Highlander Hybrid’s handsome instrumentation panel not only conveys
your speed, but also indicates your driving mode and driving economy.
When conditions permit, Hybrid Synergy Drive®will seek the most efficient
power source.
EV Mode3, 4
In EV Mode, Highlander Hybrid cuts the gasoline engine and uses its rear
electric motor, saving fuel while reducing noise and emissions. EV Mode
is designed for situations where you’re driving at very low speeds for short
distances, such as pulling cautiously out of a crowded parking garage.
ECON Mode
For more economical operation in normal driving situations, Highlander
Hybrid offers ECON Mode. By pressing the ECON button and then applying
the accelerator, you can modify throttle response to help reduce fuel
consumption. ECON Mode can also help when you’re accelerating in
low-traction situations, like on snow-covered roads.
1. See footnote 8 in Disclosures section. 2. See footnote 3 in Disclosures section. 3. See footnote 1 in Disclosures section. 4. See footnote 2 in Disclosures section.
In addition to providing many
standard gauges, such as the
speedometer, Highlander Hybrid
also features a hybrid system power
meter that lets you know when
the system is charging and shows
electric power consumption.
Highlander’s advanced Hybrid
Synergy Drive®powers the vehicle
in different ways depending
on demand. Sometimes the
vehicle is propelled solely with
the gas engine, sometimes
with just the electric motors,
and sometimes with both.
Highlander Hybrid is a testament
to the success of our hybrid
technology. Far from being a
drive system reserved for smaller
cars, Hybrid Synergy Drive®has
demonstrated that it’s an effective
and efficient system for nearly
any regular consumer vehicle.

STARTING
From initial light or moderate
acceleration to low speeds,
Highlander Hybrid is powered
solely by the high-torque
electric motors.
1
NORMAL RUNNING
When driving under normal
conditions, Highlander Hybrid is
powered by the gasoline engine
and is assisted by the electric
motors as needed.
FULL ACCELERATION
During heavy acceleration, the
gasoline engine is used while the
battery supplies increased drive
power to the electric motors.
DECELERATION / BRAKING
When slowing, the gasoline engine
begins to shut off and the electric
motors convert momentum into
electricity, storing it in the HV battery.
STOPPING
When Highlander Hybrid comes
to a stop, its gasoline engine
shuts off to conserve fuel and
reduce emissions.
2
1. Gasoline engine utilized for acceleration on cold starts and full acceleration. 2. The preceding is based on a “likely scenario” for optimal driving conditions.
Hybrid Limited shown in Shoreline Blue Pearl.

SE shown in Magnetic Gray Metallic.

VENTILATED DISC BRAKES
Brakes slow a vehicle down by
using friction to convert kinetic
energy into heat. If the brakes get
too hot, they can become less
effective, a phenomenon known
as brake fade. The front brakes
on Highlander employ a ventilated
disc design, helping to better
dissipate heat and providing
confident stopping power.
When it comes to driving, Toyota doesn’t accept the old adage that what can go
wrong, will. Real safety involves anticipating trouble and then avoiding it. That’s why
every Highlander is equipped with a suite of active safety features known as the Star
Safety System.
™Of course, in the event trouble proves unavoidable, Highlander is also
equipped with a host of passive safety features, such as seven airbags,
1crumple zones
and advanced seatbelts.
Refute Murphy’s Law.
Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)2
To help compensate for a loss of traction while cornering, Highlander utilizes
Enhanced VSC. The system adjusts engine power, braking and steering
torque-assist control to help the vehicle follow the direction it is being steered.
Traction Control (TRAC)
Using advanced braking technologies, TRAC is a traction control system
that helps control wheelspin when starting or accelerating on a slippery
surface. TRAC is supplemented by the Enhanced VSC’s steering torque-
assist control to help maintain appropriate driving force during straight-line
acceleration and to offset left or right pull.
ABS, EBD and BA3
The standard Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) on Highlander is a key active
safety feature. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) helps optimize the
distribution and amount of brake force between the front and rear wheels,
based on driving conditions and vehicle load. EBD also distributes brake
force between the left and right wheels during cornering to help maintain
vehicle control. Brake Assist (BA) is designed to detect whether the driver is
attempting a panic stop, and if so, applies increased braking power.
Smart Stop Technology (SST)4
At speeds greater than five miles per hour, when the accelerator is
depressed first and the brakes are then applied firmly for longer than
one-half second, Smart Stop Technology is designed to help the driver
bring the vehicle to a stop.
1. See footnote 29 in Disclosures section. 2. See footnote 25 in Disclosures section. 3. See footnote 26 in Disclosures section. 4. See footnote 27 in Disclosures section.

Your family. Our priority.
Backup Camera1
Knowing what’s around your vehicle is crucial to safety. When you’re
backing up, the area behind Highlander that’s visible to the camera is
displayed on the audio screen.
2
Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)3
When you’re accelerating from a standstill on an incline, HAC helps
prevent the vehicle from rolling backward. When activated, the feature
holds the brakes for approximately three seconds as the driver switches
from the brake pedal to the accelerator.
Downhill Assist Control (DAC)3, 4
Highlander 4WD models come with an innovative feature called Downhill
Assist Control, or DAC. Designed to help provide a controlled descent on
steep inclines, it sets a target vehicle speed of approximately 2-4 mph. To
help maintain that speed, DAC signals the brakes to modulate automatically.
1. See footnote 10 in Disclosures section. 2. Not available on Highlander grade. 3. See footnote 31 in Disclosures section. 4. Full-time 4WD models only. 5. See footnote 19 in Disclosures section. 6. See footnote 5 in Disclosures section.
PET TRAVEL SAFETY
Toyota offers a wide range of pet
accessories designed to help you
transport your furry companions
in comfort and security. Ask your
Toyota dealer for details.
4WD
To help you feel confident behind
the wheel, Highlander offers traction
and safety systems, including an
available full-time 4WD system.
Highlander Hybrid provides a
similar measure of security with
standard Electronic On-Demand
4WD with intelligence (4WD-i).
6
TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR
SYSTEM (TPMS)5
Proper tire pressure is important
for safe driving. TPMS evaluates
the pressure of the tires and issues
a warning if the pressure becomes
critically low.
At Toyota, one of our most
important initiatives is to help
protect you and your family. To
that end, we’ve equipped the
2013 Highlander with some of
the most comprehensive safety
features in the industry.

2 4135
1. See footnote 29 in Disclosures section. 2. See footnote 30 in Disclosures section.
Photo not intended to replicate actual inflated airbags.
1 2
3
4
5
Seat-mounted side airbags help
provide protection to the driver
and front passenger in the event
of certain types of severe side-
impact collisions.
The front seats in Highlander also
incorporate active headrests,
2which
move up and forward, helping to
reduce the severity of whiplash
injuries to the driver and front
passenger in the event of certain
lower-speed rear-end collisions.
Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags
(RSCA) help provide protection
for all rows of seats in certain
types of side collisions and in the
event of a roll.
LATCH (Lower Anchors and
Tethers for CHildren) helps protect
the smaller members of your
family. LATCH includes lower-
mounted anchors and tethers on
all outboard rear seats.
Highlander comes standard with
an Advanced Airbag System1
that includes both driver and front
passenger dual stage airbags.
There’s also a knee airbag to
further enhance driver protection.

1. This floor mat was designed specifically for use in your model and model year vehicle and SHOULD NOT be used in any other vehicle. To avoid potential interference with pedal operation, each mat must be secured with retention
hooks/clips. Do not install a floor mat on top of an existing floor mat. 2. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. 3. The Toyota Genuine Accessory Warranty will only apply when the installation is performed by a
trained Toyota-approved installer. If the film is installed by anyone else, the Toyota “Parts Only” warranty — 12 months — will be applicable instead. Please see dealer for details. 4. Available only with vehicles with keyless entry.
5. See footnote 7 in Disclosures section. 6. See footnote 20 in Disclosures section.
All-weather floor mats
1
Ashtray cup
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Ball mount
Body side moldings
Cargo cover
Cargo divider
Cargo liner
Cargo net – envelope
2
Cargo net – spider
2
Cargo tote
Cargo tray
2
Carpet cargo mat
Carpet floor mats
1
Door edge guards
Emergency assistance kit
First aid kit
Hood protector
Hybrid Synergy Drive
®
sticker
Mudguards
Paint protection film
3
Rear-seat entertainment
Remote Engine Starter
4
Roof rack cross bars
Running boards
Towing hitch receiver
Towing wire harness
Trailer ball
5
Vehicle Intrusion Protection (VIP)
RS3200 Plus Security System with
Glass Breakage Sensor (GBS)
4
Wheel locks
Wireless headphones
6
Cargo tray2
Running boards
Cargo liner
Cargo cover and carpet cargo mat
Cargo net — envelope2Towing hitch receiver
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
A wide range of Genuine Toyota Accessories is available to help you make your Highlander
your own. Considering how appealing Highlander is to begin with, these high-quality
products will be like icing on the cake. Some accessories may not be available in all
regions of the country. See your Toyota dealer for details.
As unique as your family.

ASH
BLACK
SAND BEIGE
BLACK
SAND BEIGE
BLACK
ASH
Combinations
INTERIOR COLOR CHOICES
1 Highlander, Highlander Plus,
SE and Hybrid 17-in. 7-spoke
alloy wheel
2 Limited 19-in. 5-spoke alloy wheel
3 Hybrid Limited 19-in. 10-spoke
alloy wheel
123
1. Not available on hybrid models. 2. Hybrid models only. 3. Extra-cost color.
BLACK NAUTICAL BLUE METALLIC1SHORELINE BLUE PEARL CYPRESS PEARL1
SIZZLING CRIMSON MICA PREDAWN GRAY MICA2BLIZZARD PEARL3
MAGNETIC GRAY METALLIC1CLASSIC SILVER METALLIC SANDY BEACH METALLIC1
FABRIC
HIGHLANDER
EASY-CLEAN FABRIC
HIGHLANDER PLUS AND HYBRID
LEATHER TRIM
SE (standard) AND HYBRID (available)
PERFORATED LEATHER TRIM
LIMITED AND HYBRID LIMITED
BLACK ASH SAND BEIGEBLACK ASH SAND BEIGEASH SAND BEIGE ASH SAND BEIGE
EXTERIOR/INTERIOR COLOR COMBINATIONS
WHEELS

Specifications
See numbered footnotes in Disclosures section.
MECHANICAL AND PERFORMANCE HIGHLANDER HIGHLANDER PLUS SE LIMITED HYBRID HYBRID LIMITED
Gasoline engine — 2.7-Liter 4-Cylinder Double Overhead Cam (DOHC)
16-Valve with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i);
187 hp @ 5800 rpm, 186 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm Standard Standard NA NA NA NA
Gasoline engine — 3.5-Liter V6 Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 24-Valve
with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i);
270 hp @ 6200 rpm, 248 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm Available Available Standard Standard NA NA
Hybrid engine — 3.5-Liter V6 Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 24-Valve
with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), EV1, 2 and ECON Modes;
280 hybrid system net hp (209 kW) NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
EMISSION RATING
Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV-II) Standard Standard Standard Standard NA NA
Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV)3NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
Evaporative Emission Certification — Zero Evaporation NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
ELECTRIC MOTORS (two, front and rear)
Function: drive front and rear wheels, regeneration during braking NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
Electric motor type: permanent magnet motor NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
TRACTION BATTERY
Battery type: sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
TRANSMISSION
6-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with
intelligence (ECT-i), sequential shift mode and Snow Mode Standard Standard NA NA NA NA
5-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with
intelligence (ECT-i), sequential shift mode and Snow Mode Available4Available4Standard Standard NA NA
Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) NA NA NA NA Standard Standard
DRIVETRAIN
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Standard Standard Standard Standard NA NA
Full-time 4WD Available4Available4Available Available NA NA
Electronic On-Demand 4WD with intelligence (4WD-i) NA NA NA NA Standard5Standard5
BODY CONSTRUCTION
Reinforced unitized body Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
SUSPENSION
4-wheel independent MacPherson strut suspension with front and
rear stabilizer bars Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
STEERING
Electric Power Steering (EPS); power-assisted rack-and-pinion Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Turning circle diameter, curb to curb (ft.) 38.7 38.7 38.7 38.7 38.7 38.7
BRAKES
Power-assisted ventilated 12.9-in. front disc brakes/solid 12.2-in. rear disc
brakes and Star Safety System™ Standard Standard Standard Standard NA NA
Power-assisted ventilated 12.9-in. front disc brakes/solid 12.2-in. rear disc
brakes with Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB) system, integrated
regenerative braking and Star Safety System™ NA NA NA NA Standard Standard