2023 Toyota Highlander

The Highlander is available in attractive exterior colors such as Ruby Flare Pearl, Cypress, and Moon Dust. You can choose from six trim levels: the L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. A hybrid model is available on all trims except for the XSE. You can also choose it as a Bronze Edition.

The base model is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, a rear spoiler, and heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators. Added features on the LE trim include LED fog lights, a height-adjustable power liftgate, and side mirrors with blind-spot warning indicators.

Standard features on the XLE trim include a power tilt/slide moonroof and silver-painted roof rails. The XSE trim comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips, and chrome exterior accents. With the Limited trim, you can expect upgraded fog lights, a hands-free liftgate, and power-folding side mirrors. The range-topping Platinum trim features adaptive headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and rain-sensing wipers.

You can choose from two powertrains with the Highlander. A new standard turbocharged 2.4-liter engine generates an output of 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard and so does front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all trims. The hybrid powertrain uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a continuously variable automatic transmission.

You can expect a competent and comfortable ride from your Highlander. Apart from accurate steering, the SUV provides responsive acceleration and minimal body roll around corners. For a more sporty ride, opt for the XSE trim. It's equipped with a sport-tuned suspension with retuned shock absorbers, higher-rate springs, and a rear stabilizer bar that delivers enhanced handling. When properly equipped, the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The Highlander's cabin is upscale and roomy. Spacious seats are provided, especially in the first and second rows. You also receive a decently sized rear cargo area of 16 cubic feet. Folding the rear rows down opens up the cargo area to a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet.

The standard 8-inch infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot, USB ports, and six speakers. Other standard features include keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver's seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, and fabric upholstery.

The higher trims add various upgrades, including leather upholstery, second-row sunshades, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Depending on the trim, you can also expect heated and ventilated front seats, memory settings, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, and heated second-row seats.

All trims come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, which consists of front-collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and lane-keeping assist. Dynamic radar cruise control and a traffic sign reader also come standard. Available systems include a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera.