Toyota HIGHLANDER
27,886 registered in New Zealand · 2000–2026 · 72% from United States
The Toyota HIGHLANDER is a well-established model on New Zealand roads, with 27,886 registered across model years 2000 to 2026. It averages 9.4 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 194 kW. Most are petrol-powered station wagons with a 3.5L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the HIGHLANDER.
Fuel Types
Toyota HIGHLANDER fuel type breakdown: PETROL 77%, PETROL HYBRID 23%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Toyota HIGHLANDER vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Toyota HIGHLANDER fleet age profile: 2022: 1,636, 2023: 1,397, 2024: 1,406, 2025: 1,159, 2026: 174.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Toyota HIGHLANDER transmissions: 5-GEAR AUTO 28%, 8-GEAR AUTO 27%, CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE 23%, 6-GEAR AUTO 22%.
Engine Size
Toyota HIGHLANDER engine sizes: 3.5L 74%, 2.5L 23%, 3.3L 3%, 3.0L 0%, 2.4L 0%.
Imported From
Toyota HIGHLANDER imported from: United States 72%, Japan 28%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Toyota HIGHLANDER vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Toyota HIGHLANDER NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 1,636, 2023: 1,397, 2024: 1,406, 2025: 1,159, 2026: 174.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Toyota HIGHLANDER.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Toyota HIGHLANDER regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 10,189, CHRISTCHURCH: 2,095, HAMILTON: 912, TAURANGA: 905, WELLINGTON: 678.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Toyota HIGHLANDER are there in New Zealand?
There are 27,886 Toyota HIGHLANDER vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.8% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 2000 to 2026. A large fleet means parts are widely available and mechanics are familiar with this model.
How much does it cost to run a Toyota HIGHLANDER?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Toyota HIGHLANDER averages 9.4 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $74 per week or $3,846 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Toyota HIGHLANDER?
The Toyota HIGHLANDER is primarily classified as a station wagon in the NZTA fleet register. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Toyota HIGHLANDER cars imported or NZ-new?
72% of Toyota HIGHLANDER vehicles in New Zealand originated from United States. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.