The 2008 Highlander is a 4-door, 7-passenger sport-utility, available in 6 trims, ranging from the Base 4X2 to the Limited 4X4. Upon introduction, the Base 4X2 is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 270-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. The Limited 4X4 is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 270-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims. The 2008 Highlander is redesigned for 2008.

The 2008 Highlander Hybrid is a 4-door, up to 7-passenger sport-utility, available in two trims, the Base and the Limited. Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 3.3-liter, V6, 270-horsepower, hybrid engine that achieves 27-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2008 Highlander Hybrid is redesigned for 2008.