I have an 08 Highlander Limited AWD had since July, just at 12k miles - I
think I have only had one tank of gas that averaged under 17 mpg - If I run
on the highway (Say to Idaho from Northern Californa) I am always over
23,and sometimes 25+. (It has a resettable cumulative MPG meter and for some
9000 miles was 19.4)  I had an 02 and this one is much nicer all the way AND
better mileage - I really struggled with the 02 to get in 22-23 mile range
and this one does it easy.  About only thing that is taking getting used to,
it seems the "blind" spots while backing are a bit bigger but the backup
camera helps some - I just pay more attention backing up.
Ron in Ca

The highlander is based on the Camry chassis. The 3.5L engine that's
also used in Lexus however has a "piston slap" design problem that
Toyota knows about but decides to do nothing (letter from Lexus
follows). "It's normal" they said.

So I would suggest you also check out the Honda Pilot. Or America's
best selling compact SUV - Honda CR-V.

Car and Driver comparison:
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_
cars/family_romper_roundup_2009_honda_pilot_meets_its_competition_feature/2008_t
oyota_highlander_feature

========================================
Subject
     Defective Lexus Design

      Discussion Thread
      Response (Heather Mauu) 04/28/2008 06:34 AM

     Thank you for contacting the Lexus Customer Satisfaction
Department
regarding Concern. We appreciate the time you have taken to share your
thoughts.

     Lexus understands your concerns with the engine noise heard in
your
2007 ES 350, Vehicle Identification Number JTHBJ46G772142795. Lexus
has done
thorough research into this matter and has found that this engine
noise is a
normal operating condition. We apologize that the vehicle has not met
your
expectation. Please be assured that your dissatisfaction has been
documented
in our records for product improvement consideration.

     If you require further assistance, please contact the Lexus
Customer
Satisfaction Department at
     1-800-255-3987, Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
or
Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Pacific Standard Time.

     Sincerely,

     Heather Mau'u
     Customer Satisfaction Representative