Peugeot 5008 vs. Toyota Highlander: Complete comparison 2026

[Peugeot 5008](https://carvago.com/en/cars/peugeot/5008) is a popular French SUV that appeals to family customers primarily with its futuristic interior concept and extraordinary interior variability. Standing against it is the robust [Toyota Highlander](https://carvago.com/en/cars/toyota/highlander), also sold under the name Toyota Kluger in the Japanese and Australian markets, which brings proven reliability and generous travel comfort. The following comparison will provide a detailed look at the strengths and weaknesses of both vehicles, helping you decide which of these spacious models will be the best choice for your daily journeys.

When you place the [Peugeot 5008](https://carvago.com/en/cars/peugeot/5008) and the [Toyota Highlander](https://carvago.com/en/cars/toyota/highlander) side by side, you will immediately notice that they play in slightly different size leagues. While the second-generation French representative represents a typical European family SUV, the Highlander brings honest American proportions to our region. With a length of 4,966 mm, the Toyota is a significant 325 mm longer than the Peugeot (4,641 mm). You will feel this difference as soon as you look for a parallel parking space in the city or maneuver through narrow streets, where the more compact dimensions clearly play in favor of the French car.

The Japanese model dominates in other directions as well – it is 86 mm wider (1,930 mm vs. 1,844 mm) and a substantial 109 mm taller (1,755 mm vs. 1,646 mm). As a result, the Highlander makes a much more majestic impression on the road and commands more respect. By far the most interesting comparison, however, is offered by a look at the wheelbase. Although the Toyota is more than thirty centimeters longer, its wheelbase (2,850 mm) exceeds that of the Peugeot 5008 (2,840 mm) by just a single centimeter. This points to the excellent engineering work of the French carmaker, which has managed to masterfully utilize the enclosed space by pushing the wheels to the very corners of the body.

If you weave through city traffic daily, often park in shopping centers, and appreciate agility, the shorter and narrower Peugeot 5008 will be a much more pleasant daily companion for you. Conversely, the Toyota Highlander makes sense where external dimensions do not limit you in the parking lot and you want to benefit from maximum robustness, an unmistakable appearance, and confident stability during highway travel.

Both of these large SUVs target large families, for whom luggage compartment volume is often a decisive factor. Although the Toyota Highlander is significantly more massive in its external dimensions, a comparison of trunk transport capacity shows that Peugeot's cleverly designed interior space has its undeniable advantages. For both vehicles, we consider measurements in a five-seat configuration (with the third row of seats folded down), which is the most common and practical mode for family use in cars on the market for approximately four-year-old used vehicles.

The second-generation Peugeot 5008 benefits from its earlier genes derived from MPV category vehicles. In a five-seat configuration, it offers a massive basic volume of 780 liters. If you also fold down the second row of seats, you reach a maximum value of 1,940 liters. A useful benefit is the fact that the third-row seats can be completely removed from the vehicle, providing hidden storage space for several extra suitcases under the floor. The Peugeot's trunk is thus perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping as well as longer holidays.

The Toyota Highlander (XU70 generation) features a luggage compartment with a basic volume of 658 liters in a five-seat configuration (measured up to the luggage cover). By folding down the second row of seats, you create a long flat surface and a maximum space of 1,909 liters. The lower basic volume compared to the Peugeot is primarily due to the presence of a robust all-wheel-drive system and the hybrid system's batteries, which simply require more space under the rear floor. Even so, it is an absolutely luxurious hauler that will satisfy all family needs.

Towing capacity is often a decisive parameter for families and active drivers planning to tow a caravan, a horse trailer, or a heavier load. When comparing these two popular SUVs on the used car market – typically around four-year-old vehicles – we encounter quite fundamental differences in towing capacity, reflecting the different design and focus of both cars.

The Toyota Highlander XU70 generation (2021–2024) offers excellent and, above all, consistent parameters in this regard. Its robust 2.5 Hybrid full hybrid powertrain can tow a braked trailer weighing an impressive 2000 kg. In contrast, the second-generation Peugeot 5008 (from the relevant years 2020–2022) is much more dependent on the chosen engine. The standard 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine allows towing only 1100 kg, while the model's maximum towing capacity is offered by the more powerful 2.0 BlueHDi diesel version, which gets you up to a solid 1750 kg (or 1800 kg for slightly older models). It is very interesting to observe the impact of electrification on both cars. While the hybrid system does not limit the towing capacity of the massive Toyota and maintains its two-ton maximum, for newer mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Peugeot 5008, the maximum weight of a braked trailer drops to just 1000 to 1050 kg.

In practice, these differences mean completely different usage possibilities. The 2000 kg value for the [Toyota Highlander](https://carvago.com/en/cars/toyota/highlander) represents a huge amount of extra space and is perfectly sufficient for towing a large twin-axle caravan for a long holiday or safely transporting a heavy boat. The [Peugeot 5008](https://carvago.com/en/cars/peugeot/5008) with a limit of around 1100 to 1300 kg for its common engines will serve more for lighter loads – it is ideal for attaching a trailer when buying building materials on the weekend, hauling garden waste, or for a smaller folding caravan. If regular towing of heavy trailers is a clear priority for you, the Toyota Highlander is clearly the more robust choice. On the other hand, the Peugeot 5008 will perfectly suit occasional and less demanding users, especially if you go for its more powerful diesel variant.

When comparing the engine lineups of these two large family SUVs, we encounter completely different technical philosophies, which is a crucial factor for those interested in a nearly-new used car in terms of driving habits, overall fuel consumption, and reliability. The French model relies on a relatively wide range of conventional turbocharged internal combustion engines, covering smaller petrol units for suburban use as well as traditional fuel-efficient diesels ideal for long motorway journeys. Conversely, its Japanese competitor takes the path of exclusive electrification in the form of a single, highly advanced full hybrid powertrain that offers significant power and smoothness without the need for plugging in. While buyers of the European representative can choose more affordable and simpler specifications, the Japanese model brings a premium standard including an uncompromising hybrid and intelligent all-wheel drive.

Peugeot 5008 (2nd Generation)

In its second generation (the model years of which dominate the four-year-old used car market), the Peugeot 5008 offered a flexible range of power units. The base is represented by the proven 1.2 PureTech 130 (96 kW) three-cylinder petrol engine, while drivers accustomed to lower consumption at motorway speeds most often opt for the 1.5 BlueHDi 130 (96 kW) four-cylinder diesel. For more demanding users, more powerful and flexible four-cylinder engines were initially available: the 1.6 PureTech 180 (133 kW) and the highly sought-after 2.0 BlueHDi 180 (130 kW) diesel. However, it is crucial to emphasize that according to market data, production of both these more powerful variants (2.0 BlueHDi and 1.6 PureTech) ended in mid-2022, so you will no longer find them in newer models on the used car market. At the end of this generation's production (from 2023), the range was expanded with the fuel-efficient 1.2 Hybrid 136 (100 kW) mild-hybrid version. All 5008 engine versions drive the front wheels exclusively and are paired, depending on the version, with a 6-speed manual, a reliable 8-speed automatic (EAT8), or a new 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (e-DSC6) in the case of the mild-hybrid.

Toyota Highlander (XU70 Generation)

On the European market, the Toyota Highlander takes a much more exclusive and significantly simpler approach with the XU70 generation (which has been on sale since 2021). Under the bonnet of this model, you will find exclusively a single variant among four-year-old used cars. This is the 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i, a proven full hybrid (HEV) system operating on the efficient Atkinson cycle. It combines a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a pair of powerful electric motors on both axles. The entire setup produces a very confident combined output of 182 kW (248 hp). An electronically controlled planetary e-CVT gearbox ensures precise and perfectly smooth power delivery. A huge advantage over its French competitor is the standard presence of intelligent all-wheel drive. Although the Highlander is a significantly heavier vehicle, this sophisticated solution allows for frequent electric driving, especially in city traffic jams and at lower speeds, which fundamentally reduces overall real-world fuel consumption.

In conclusion, both model ranges serve completely different needs. Those who cover thousands of motorway kilometres will undoubtedly appreciate the presence of classic and very fuel-efficient diesel engines in the Peugeot 5008 range (especially the powerful 2.0-litre in older units from the beginning of the decade). Conversely, families and drivers who emphasize maximum refinement, top-tier city fuel economy, and require the peace of mind of safe all-wheel drive will find the advanced full hybrid solution from Toyota to be the ideal choice.

Choosing the right power unit is key to long-term satisfaction with a used car. Our recommendations for roughly four-year-old used cars are based on real-world driving experience, mechanical reliability, actual fuel consumption, and overall everyday usability. While the popular French representative offers several variants on the used car market and bets on a torquey diesel, the Japanese behemoth offers only a single, yet technically extremely sophisticated hybrid powertrain in Europe, which surprisingly defies the laws of physics regarding the fuel consumption of heavy SUVs with its extraordinary efficiency.

For the Peugeot 5008, we recommend: 2.0 BlueHDi, 130 kW

Although the engine range for the second-generation Peugeot 5008 is quite broad, the best choice for this seven-seater family SUV is clearly the powerful two-liter diesel. However, it is crucial to know that this robust engine was only available in the database of offered powertrains until 2022 and was subsequently replaced in the price list exclusively by smaller and weaker units. In the category of four-year-old used cars, it is therefore a gem worth searching for.

• Why it's the best choice: The two-liter offers a generous 400 Nm of torque. Smaller engines like the 1.5 BlueHDi or the 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol can struggle a bit with a fully loaded family car on hills, but the two-liter has a completely confident power reserve under all circumstances and adds confidence to the drive.
• Technical advantages: This engine is among the top in terms of longevity and works perfectly with the fitted eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission (EAT8), which shifts logically and very smoothly. A huge advantage is operational efficiency – real consumption, despite the large frontal area, stays between an excellent 6 to 7 liters of diesel per 100 km.
• Known risks and prevention: As with the vast majority of modern diesels from the French group, the weak point is the urea injection system (AdBlue). During a test drive of a used unit, watch closely for any emission system error messages on the instrument cluster and inquire about the documented history of any pump reservoir repairs. Furthermore, frequent short trips "around the block" pose a risk of accelerated clogging of the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
• Ideal use: The engine is perfect for drivers who mostly drive longer distances, often spend time on highways, or regularly test the vehicle's maximum transport capacity. From a mechanic's perspective, we strongly advise – do not buy this car for exclusive city use and school runs.

For the Toyota Highlander, we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i, 182 kW

With the Toyota Highlander, which began sales in Europe in its XU70 generation from 2021, the choice is completely worry-free. The manufacturer decided to offer European customers exclusively a single powertrain for this vehicle – a proven hybrid without the option of external charging. It is therefore the only, and it must be noted, the absolute best choice.

• Why it's the best choice: You get one of the most sophisticated, efficient, and reliable powertrains on the market. A nearly two-ton, five-meter-long car can literally glide through urban and suburban environments with consumption under 7 liters of petrol, which is a completely unique phenomenon in the world of full-size petrol SUVs.
• Technical advantages: The heart of the system is a naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine operating in the efficient Atkinson cycle with an excellent thermal efficiency of over 40%. It is complemented by powerful electric motors, with the rear axle handled exclusively by a separate electric motor. This creates an efficient all-wheel-drive system (AWD-i) without the need for complicated mechanical links.
• Known risks and prevention: Toyota's hybrid drive is a benchmark for reliability and lacks delicate parts (there is no classic gearbox with gears, clutch, traditional starter, alternator, or driveshaft). A certain "weakness" is rather the user experience of the e-CVT planetary gearbox, which, when maximum acceleration is requested, leaves the engine monotonically revving at high RPMs, slightly increasing cabin noise. If you are buying a used car, verify that the previous owner regularly underwent traction hybrid battery tests at an authorized dealer. Only with this test does the extended warranty on the hybrid battery apply, which can last up to 10 years.
• Ideal use: The Highlander with this hybrid will primarily appeal to calmer and more composed drivers. It is an ideal companion for families looking for colossal, safe space, superior travel comfort, and who appreciate incredibly low service and operating costs. It handles everything from city errands to highway trips to the Alps.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers are often overly optimistic, and in real-world driving—especially with large and heavy family SUVs with higher aerodynamic drag—they are difficult to achieve. For an objective assessment of fuel costs, it is therefore much more reliable to base it on the actual experiences of owners themselves. The following comparison draws data from the independent community portal Spritmonitor.de, where thousands of ordinary drivers across Europe record their refueling over the long term. We focused exclusively on the generations of both cars typical for the market of roughly four-year-old used cars – the popular second generation of the Peugeot 5008 and the spacious Toyota Highlander (XU70 generation).

Several interesting trends emerge from the available data. The most economical choice in this comparison is undoubtedly the diesel Peugeot 5008 with the 1.5 BlueHDi engine. This exceptionally efficient unit can achieve consumption only slightly exceeding six liters, even with a fully loaded seven-seater car. However, the real-world behavior of small turbocharged gasoline engines might be a surprising finding. Although miraculous savings are traditionally expected from downsizing, in daily operation, the 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder in the massive Peugeot has to work hard, which reliably pushes its average consumption above the seven-liter mark. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander follows a completely different philosophy and hides exclusively a large-displacement 2.5-liter full-hybrid under the hood. Given that the Highlander is significantly bulkier, heavier, and equipped as standard with AWD-i intelligent all-wheel drive, the average of 7.7 l/100 km represents an absolutely fantastic result, which in practice proves the extraordinary technological maturity of the Japanese hybrid.

For the typical user, this means a fairly clear division of the ring. If you spend a lot of time on highways or regularly cover hundreds of kilometers on long routes, the diesel engines of the Peugeot 5008 will be the most suitable choice for you. Especially the more powerful 2.0 BlueHDi version offers a great compromise between confident pull and very favorable consumption on long journeys. Conversely, the territory of the Toyota Highlander with its hybrid drive is more urban and suburban areas. It is there that the system can recuperate exceptionally efficiently and drive purely on electricity for a significant part of the time. Thanks to this, such a large and luxurious SUV will not drain you financially even during endless stop-and-go driving in morning traffic jams.

Fuel consumption thus represents a key decision-making factor in this duel, and the choice of the ideal engine should be entirely based on your daily driving profile. If you are looking for the lowest possible total operating costs and can settle for a car with only front-wheel drive, the [diesel Peugeot 5008](https://carvago.com/en/cars/peugeot/5008/diesel) is the more economical choice. The Toyota Highlander may ask for a few extra tenths of a liter of fuel, but considering its huge dimensions, the immediate confidence of 4x4 drive, and the renowned smoothness of the hybrid system, it is a completely negligible price to pay for top-tier family comfort.

When looking at used cars around 4 years old (approximately 2021–2022 models), you will find that the Peugeot 5008 and Toyota Highlander target completely different budgets. While the French representative offers a more affordable path to a spacious family SUV, the Japanese giant holds its value much more confidently thanks to advanced hybrid technology and a more premium focus.

Peugeot 5008: A sensible choice for the family budget

• Affordable entry point: Vehicles with the base 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine can be purchased on the used market for as little as €21,000.
• Influence of equipment and engine: Better-equipped GT versions with the 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine or the more powerful 2.0 BlueHDi usually range between €25,000 and €31,000, depending on the mileage.
• Depreciation: Peugeot depreciates slightly faster than its Asian competitors, which is great news for used car buyers. You get a relatively modern and spacious car with rich equipment for a fraction of its original price.

Toyota Highlander: An investment in hybrid certainty

• High barrier to entry: As a large full-size SUV with standard all-wheel drive and an exclusively hybrid powertrain (2.5 Hybrid), the Highlander starts significantly higher on the used market. For around €35,000, you are more likely to find cars with significantly over 150,000 kilometres on the odometer.
• Trim levels: Popular and very richly equipped specifications like Prestige or Executive with lower mileage commonly reach the €45,000 to €49,000 mark even after four years of operation.
• Residual value: Toyota is a phenomenon when it comes to reliability and price retention. Although you will have to dig deeper into your pocket when buying on the used market, the Highlander holds its value excellently and compensates for this with a traditionally low risk of unexpected service expenses.

From a used car market perspective, the Peugeot 5008 represents an excellent price-to-utility ratio for an average large family. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, scores points with buyers who have a more generous budget, are looking for immense interior space, strictly require 4x4 drive, and appreciate an exceptionally slow decline in value.

Although a full five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests can be expected for such large family SUVs, and there is great confidence in both vehicles in this regard, it is absolutely crucial to assess the results strictly in the context of the year of testing. The methodology of European crash tests is constantly evolving and becoming more stringent over time. Therefore, percentage results from different years cannot be fairly and directly compared – older vehicles were simply not confronted with such demanding conditions as, for example, simulations of a crossing cyclist, testing of active response in oncoming traffic, or deep analysis of collisions at complex intersections.

Peugeot 5008

The relevant second generation of the Peugeot 5008, which you will encounter on the market today as approximately four-year-old used cars, underwent Euro NCAP testing in 2016 (the rating is based on the structurally identical 3008 model). At that time, the car took home a confident five stars. It showed a very good 86% for adult protection and 85% for child protection in car seats. While the prevention systems performed decently by the standards of the time, the result of 67% for vulnerable road users and 58% for safety assistants clearly show that older electronics do not reach the capabilities of today's sensors. It is also necessary to add that the validity of the 2016 certification has already officially expired from the perspective of current Euro NCAP standards.

Toyota Highlander

In the case of the giant Toyota Highlander SUV, which entered the European market with its current generation at the turn of 2020 and 2021, we find a blank space in the Euro NCAP tables. The car was not officially tested here, and European test data is therefore missing. However, the absence of a certificate is far from meaning weaker protection for Toyota. In American crash tests by the strict IIHS institute, the car excelled with the Top Safety Pick+ award. The car relies fully on an exceptionally robust structure and the standard Toyota Safety Sense package of active helpers (including, for example, preventive autonomous braking with pedestrian detection day and night and advanced adaptive cruise control). However, as the rules of comparison dictate, in the absence of relevant data for the European market, we cannot fill in any hypothetical percentage values in the table.

Final Evaluation

When assessing overall safety comfort, both vehicles offer stable protection for your loved ones. The Peugeot 5008 provides solid evidence and black-and-white results from European laboratories, although they are subject to an older methodology that no longer keeps pace with current active assistants. Despite the missing Euro NCAP seal, the Toyota Highlander embodies a much more modern defensive shield thanks to its stiffer body and far more advanced sensors, which better withstand modern traffic hazards.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, and both cars thus bring their own distinctive approach to added value.

Peugeot 5008: French avant-garde and maximum versatility

The Peugeot 5008 scores points primarily with its well-thought-out interior layout and bold technological approach, which turns a family car into a design experience.

• Interior layout and i-Cockpit: A characteristic feature is the Peugeot i-Cockpit dashboard layout. It offers a compact, sportily shaped steering wheel and a raised digital instrument cluster. This solution makes it easier to read data close to the driver's line of sight and gives a sense of agility even when driving a relatively large family SUV.
• Unique versatility and three individual seats: The second row of seats offers three full-sized, equally wide, and independently sliding and reclining seats. This allows three child car seats to be comfortably placed side by side, which is a huge rarity nowadays. Furthermore, the third-row seats are not only foldable but also fully removable, gaining valuable extra liters of trunk space.
• Night Vision system: In this segment and price category, this is an exceptional technology. Using an infrared camera, the system can detect pedestrians or animals in low visibility or at night at a distance of up to 200 meters—further than the high beams reach—and alerts the driver on the digital instrument cluster.
• Advanced Grip Control instead of all-wheel drive: Most versions of the Peugeot 5008 rely on front-wheel drive; however, the French automaker compensates for this with the clever electronic Grip Control system. It offers several driving modes (snow, mud, sand) that optimize traction and works with Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC).
• Premium materials in higher trims: If you choose the sportier GT or GT Pack variants, the interior offers an unexpectedly luxurious atmosphere. Stitching, real wood trim, or Alcantara upholstery elevate the perception of interior quality to the next level.

Toyota Highlander: Hybrid mastery and massive space

The Toyota Highlander brings a typically American recipe for family travel to Europe, mixing it with absolute reliability and the brand's advanced hybrid technologies.

• Standard hybrid powertrain and AWD-i: In the European market, the fourth-generation Highlander is available exclusively with a powerful full hybrid powertrain (2.5 Hybrid Dynamic Force) and intelligent AWD-i all-wheel drive. The rear axle is powered by a completely independent electric motor, which eliminates the need for a mechanical driveshaft connection and provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces while maintaining low fuel consumption.
• Digital interior rearview mirror: A great feature for large families. If the massive trunk is loaded to the roof or tall passengers block your view, a press of a button turns the mirror into a display transmitting a wide-angle and clear image from the rear camera.
• Space sized for America: Everyday use is made easier by the car's uncompromising dimensions. The center armrest houses a giant storage box that can easily fit even a larger handbag. The cabin is literally dotted with large cup holders and USB ports, ensuring peace on board even during long journeys for a seven-member crew. Additionally, the second row of seats slides by 180 mm for easy access to the very back.
• Cooled seats and comfort features: In the highest trim levels (e.g., Executive), the Highlander pampers passengers with features such as ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, or a premium JBL audio system with 11 speakers. Everything is focused on absolute silence and acoustic comfort.
• Advanced Toyota Safety Sense safety telematics: In terms of assistance systems, Toyota leaves nothing to chance. Standard is an enhanced package including a Pre-Collision System with day and night pedestrian detection and cyclist detection, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, or Lane Tracing Assist, which makes the car the ultimate highway cruiser.

Peugeot 5008 is an excellent choice for larger families looking for maximum interior versatility who appreciate three individual seats in the second row. Since it relies exclusively on front-wheel drive and smaller engines, it offers a very attractive price-to-value ratio for those who don't need to drive in tougher terrain.

Toyota Highlander targets more demanding buyers who require uncompromising interior space, a sense of absolute safety, and standard all-wheel drive. It is a tireless highway and family cruiser whose higher purchase price is well compensated by excellent reliability and the fuel-efficient operation of the proven hybrid system.

Based on long-term user feedback, failure statistics, service reports, and data provided by our [comprehensive car audit](https://carvago.com/en/caraudit), we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars should watch out for.

Peugeot 5008

[Peugeot 5008](https://carvago.com/en/cars/peugeot/5008) offers a comfortable and spacious interior, but when choosing a used car, it requires increased caution regarding engine choice and a careful check of the electronics.

• 1.2 PureTech petrol engine: The most well-known weakness of this three-cylinder is the timing belt running in oil. Due to degradation, the belt gradually crumbles, and its particles clog the oil pump's intake strainer, which can cause a drop in oil pressure and, in extreme cases, engine seizure. Many owners also report increased oil consumption.
• 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine: In versions manufactured until approximately 2023, there is a risk of the 7mm chain that connects the camshafts stretching and breaking, leading to fatal engine damage. The manufacturer later addressed this problem by switching to a more robust 8mm chain.
• AdBlue system (BlueHDi): A very common and expensive fault in all diesel engines is the failure of the pump or the level sensor in the AdBlue tank. The solution usually involves replacing the entire tank. Additionally, with frequent short trips, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogs up faster.
• Electronics and equipment: There are frequent complaints about slow responses and occasional freezing of the touchscreen infotainment or a delayed start of the rear parking camera. The Start-Stop system often fails due to the degradation of voltage sensors, and on some units, the electric opening of the tailgate malfunctions.
• Chassis and brakes: Owners often point out premature wear of the rear brake pads and discs. In colder weather, squeaks and rattles may also be heard from the dashboard or door panels.

Toyota Highlander

[Toyota Highlander](https://carvago.com/en/cars/toyota/highlander) is built on an exceptionally proven hybrid foundation that does not suffer from serious mechanical failures; therefore, it tends to have minor user-related issues.

• 2.5 Hybrid powertrain: The engine and hybrid system themselves are exemplarily reliable. The only common specific issue is the risk of the 12V battery completely discharging if the vehicle sits for a long time or is only driven for very short distances. In climatically demanding areas with heavy road salting, corrosion exceptionally appears on the high-voltage cable to the rear electric motor.
• Fuel system: In early fourth-generation models (2021 model years), there were complaints about the inability to fill the fuel tank to its full stated capacity, which was caused by the shape of the tank and its venting system. This ailment slightly shortens the car's real-world range per tank.
• Brakes and chassis: Some owners of early production cars complained of noticeable vibrations from the front brakes when braking from highway speeds. The problem was usually solved by replacing the brake discs with a more durable variant.
• Electronics and infotainment: The infotainment is characterized by an outdated graphical appearance and slower responses. Many users also struggle with occasional connection drops when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Body and insulation: Although the Highlander is a very sturdy car, at speeds above 130 km/h, significant aerodynamic noise from the large side mirrors and A-pillars penetrates the cabin. In higher-mileage units, minor resonances of harder plastics in the interior may appear.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points you should focus on with these two family SUVs. Remember that a professional [independent technical inspection](https://carvago.com/en/caraudit) can reveal hidden defects that you might not notice during a regular test drive, potentially saving you a lot of worry and money.

When choosing a Peugeot 5008:

• Timing belt on the 1.2 PureTech engine: If you are buying the petrol version, check the condition of the timing belt, which runs in an oil bath. It can be easily inspected visually through the oil filler cap. If the belt is starting to crumble, fray, or is cracked, there is a risk of clogging the oil pump intake screen, leading to fatal engine failure. Always demand proof of regular oil changes.
• Rattling in 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engines: With this popular diesel, focus on the cold start during the test drive. Listen carefully for any metallic rattling coming from the upper part of the engine. These engines initially suffered from an undersized chain connecting the camshafts, the breakage of which leads to serious engine damage.
• AdBlue injection system: For all diesel versions, closely monitor the engine and emission system warning lights immediately after starting. BlueHDi systems can suffer from faults in the pump or the AdBlue tank itself, which often requires an expensive replacement of the entire module.
• Infotainment responsiveness and parking assistant: During the inspection, test all functions of the touchscreen as well as the physical "piano" keys below it. Some software versions suffer from slow responses, screen freezing during navigation, or occasional parking camera failures when shifting into reverse.
• Chassis play in heavier engine versions: During the test drive, take the car on a route with a poor surface or over speed bumps. In heavier diesel versions (especially the 2.0 BlueHDi, if available in older models), play in the front axle silentblocks or dull thuds from the rear shock absorbers may appear earlier.

When choosing a Toyota Highlander:

• Smoothness of hybrid system transitions: During the test drive, focus on the smoothness of the transition between pure electric (EV) and internal combustion mode of the 2.5 Hybrid engine. The engagement of the combustion engine should be smooth. Jerking, rough running, or unnatural vibrations may indicate worn engine mounts or the need for service intervention in the hybrid system.
• Traction battery cooling: Check the hybrid battery cooling intake grilles located near the rear seats. If the car was driven in a dusty environment or the owner carried dogs, the filters may be clogged. Insufficient cooling causes the battery to overheat and can drastically shorten its lifespan.
• e-CVT gearbox behavior: Although Toyota's planetary gearbox is considered one of the most reliable on the market, be prepared for a specific "vacuum cleaner" noise during sharp acceleration, which keeps the engine at high RPMs – this is normal behavior. However, if the car jerks unexpectedly during smooth, constant driving, it could be due to neglected service and a lack of transmission oil changes.
• Aerodynamic noise on the highway: Take the Highlander on the highway and accelerate to 130 km/h. Listen carefully for noise around the front A-pillars and side mirrors. Some units suffer from loose or deformed window or door seals, which significantly reduces acoustic comfort in a car that is otherwise very well soundproofed.
• Infotainment stability and connectivity: For models before 2023, which do not yet have the latest generation multimedia system, thoroughly check the stability of the connection via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The older system tends to be slower, and users often complain about random disconnections of paired phones while driving.

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, garaz.cz, autoservis.cz, autojournal.cz, carsandcoffee.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.