So I got to spend some time driving my wife's new Highlander Limited this weekend (alone - so I could play my music). After getting back into my HS, I have newfound appreciation for the base audio system in it! Wow, the "premium" JBL system in the highlander truly stinks! Tons of negative comments on it over on Toyota Nation, but I didn't realize how weak it really was until I tried it out over extended driving. No bass at all, even though it has a sub. It was nice getting back to my HS, where at least bass-heavy tunes will vibrate the mirror, and there was some semblance of a sound stage.

Maybe Toyota in general just doesn't get audio systems? The stock systems in my previous Odyssey and Saab both outplay these systems.

 

The base system really isn't all that bad in the HS. I wonder what the upgrade ML system sounds like?

Here's a fun one while listening to your favorite tune, try closing the NAV display and you'll hear the whole acoustics change. It sounds a little more dynamic and full with the NAV closed.

 

I don't have nav, so nothing to block that center speaker :-)

 

I had the opportunity to drive a Highlander, but I was pleased with the sound and bass. Maybe you should check whether the audio system is in good working order?