The 2023 Toyota Highlander stands as a testament to Toyota's commitment to excellence, offering a versatile and family-friendly SUV that blends performance, comfort, and advanced technology. With various trims and packages, the Highlander caters to a wide range of preferences and needs. In this extensive review, we’ll delve into the driving experience, performance, interior features, comfort, and the different trims and options available for the 2023 Toyota Highlander. We’ll also highlight strong reasons why this midsize SUV should be at the top of your shopping list.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2023 Toyota Highlander is characterized by its smooth ride, responsive handling, and overall versatility. Whether you’re navigating city streets, tackling highway miles, or venturing onto rugged terrains, the Highlander delivers a comfortable and engaging drive.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Highlander’s well-tuned suspension system strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. It absorbs road imperfections with ease, ensuring a smooth ride even on bumpy surfaces. The steering is precise and offers good feedback, making it easy to maneuver through tight spaces and around corners. Additionally, the Highlander’s elevated driving position provides a commanding view of the road, enhancing confidence and visibility.
All-Wheel Drive Capability
For those who need extra traction and stability, the Highlander offers an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This system enhances the SUV’s capability in various driving conditions, including rain, snow, and light off-road scenarios. The AWD system works seamlessly with the vehicle’s traction control and stability control systems, providing a secure and confident driving experience.
Noise and Vibration
Toyota has made significant strides in reducing cabin noise and vibration in the 2023 Highlander. The cabin remains quiet even at higher speeds, with minimal intrusion from road and wind noise. This serene environment allows for a more relaxing drive, making long journeys more enjoyable.
Performance
The 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving needs, from fuel-efficient to performance-oriented options. Let’s explore the performance capabilities of this versatile SUV.
Engine Options
2.4-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
The base engine for the 2023 Highlander is a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. The turbocharged engine offers strong acceleration and smooth power delivery, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Hybrid Powertrain
The 2023 Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total system output of 243 horsepower. This hybrid powertrain offers excellent fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers. The Highlander Hybrid delivers a smooth and quiet ride, with seamless transitions between gasoline and electric power.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2023 Toyota Highlander excels in fuel efficiency, particularly with the hybrid variant. The turbocharged inline-four engine delivers an estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, achieves an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class.
Towing Capacity
For those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads, the Highlander offers competitive towing capabilities. 2023 Toyota Highlander with 2.5L 4-Cyl. Turbo Engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while The Highlander Hybrid can handle up to 3,500 pounds. These towing capacities make the Highlander a versatile choice for both everyday use and recreational activities.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the 2023 Toyota Highlander is designed with a focus on comfort, quality, and functionality. The cabin offers a spacious and inviting environment, with a range of features to enhance the overall driving experience.
Seating and Space
The 2023 Highlander provides seating for up to eight passengers, with a standard second-row bench seat and an available second-row captain’s chairs option, which reduces seating capacity to seven but enhances comfort and access to the third row. The seats are well-padded and offer good support, making long drives more comfortable. The third row is suitable for children or smaller adults, but larger passengers might find it a bit cramped for longer journeys.
Interior Design and Materials
The cabin of the Highlander features a modern and upscale design, with high-quality materials used throughout. Soft-touch surfaces, premium upholstery options, and attention to detail create a luxurious atmosphere. The dashboard is well-organized, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly layout. Ambient lighting adds to the overall ambiance, creating a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes equipped with a range of advanced infotainment features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, while the available 12.3-inch touchscreen offers a larger display and additional functionality. Both systems support Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone.
Higher trims offer additional features such as a premium JBL audio system, wireless charging, and navigation. These upgrades enhance the overall driving experience, providing high-quality sound and convenient connectivity options.
Cargo Space
The Highlander offers ample cargo space for your belongings, with 16 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and a generous 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. This versatility makes the Highlander an excellent choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs plenty of space for their gear.
Trims, Packages, and Options
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is available in several trims, each offering a unique set of features and options to cater to different preferences and needs. Let’s explore the various trims and what they offer.
L
The base L trim provides a solid foundation with essential features, including:
2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine
Eight-speed automatic transmission
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control
8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
LED headlights and taillights
18-inch alloy wheels
Tri-zone automatic climate control
LE
The LE trim builds on the L trim with additional convenience features, such as:
Power liftgate
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
Leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob
Integrated fog lights
Available options: power moonroof, navigation, and second-row captain’s chairs
XLE
The XLE trim adds a touch of luxury with premium features, including:
SofTex-trimmed seats
Power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support
Heated front seats
Smart key system with push-button start
18-inch machined alloy wheels
Available options: 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and JBL premium audio system
XSE
The XSE trim introduces a sportier look and feel with unique exterior styling elements and additional features, including:
Sport-tuned suspension
20-inch machined-face alloy wheels
Black exterior accents
Two-tone SofTex-trimmed seats
Ambient interior lighting
Available options: panoramic moonroof, wireless charging, and JBL premium audio system
Limited
The Limited trim elevates the Highlander’s luxury quotient with premium features, such as:
Leather-trimmed seats
Ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats
Premium JBL audio system with navigation
20-inch alloy wheels
Hands-free power liftgate
Available options: panoramic moonroof and second-row captain’s chairs
Platinum
The Platinum trim offers the highest level of luxury and advanced features, including:
12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Panoramic moonroof
Head-up display
Digital rearview mirror
Heated and ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats
Adaptive headlights with high-beam assist
20-inch platinum-colored alloy wheels
Hands-free power liftgate
Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Limited, and Hybrid Platinum
For those who want the efficiency of a hybrid powertrain, the Highlander Hybrid is available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. These trims offer the same features as their gasoline counterparts but with the added benefit of hybrid efficiency. The Hybrid models provide an eco-friendly option without compromising on performance or comfort.
Strong Reasons to Buy the 2023 Toyota Highlander
1. Versatile Performance
The 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving needs, from the fuel-efficient turbocharged inline-four to the robust V6 engine and the eco-friendly hybrid variant. Whether you prioritize efficiency, power, or a balance of both, the Highlander has a model that meets your needs.
2. Spacious and Comfortable Interior
The Highlander’s interior is designed with comfort and quality in mind. With seating for up to eight passengers, ample legroom, and a range of premium features, the Highlander ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone. The versatile cargo space adds to its practicality, making it an excellent choice for families and those with active lifestyles.
3. Advanced Safety Features
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ comes standard across all trims, providing a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. These features include a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
4. Modern Technology and Connectivity
The 2023 Highlander offers a range of advanced infotainment features, including a standard 8-inch touchscreen and an available 12.3-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility come standard, ensuring seamless integration with your smartphone. Higher trims offer additional features such as a premium JBL audio system, wireless charging, and navigation.
5. Strong Resale Value
The Toyota Highlander has a reputation for reliability and longevity, contributing to its strong resale value. Investing in a Highlander means you can expect a dependable vehicle that retains its value over time, making it a wise financial choice.
6. Eco-Friendly Hybrid Option
The Highlander Hybrid offers exceptional fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice for drivers who want to minimize their environmental impact. The hybrid powertrain provides a smooth and efficient driving experience, without sacrificing practicality or performance.
7. All-Wheel Drive Capability
For those who need extra traction and stability, the Highlander’s available all-wheel-drive system enhances its capability in various driving conditions. Whether you’re driving in rain, snow, or light off-road scenarios, the AWD system provides a secure and confident driving experience.
Conclusion
The 2023 Toyota Highlander continues to uphold its reputation as a versatile, reliable, and family-friendly midsize SUV. With a range of powertrains, including a fuel-efficient hybrid option, and a variety of trims to suit different preferences, the Highlander offers something for everyone. Its comfortable and well-designed interior, advanced safety features, and strong resale value make it a compelling choice for discerning car buyers.
Whether you’re seeking a dependable family vehicle, an eco-friendly hybrid, or a capable SUV with advanced technology, the 2023 Toyota Highlander delivers on all fronts. Its combination of performance, comfort, and modern features ensures a satisfying and enjoyable driving experience. If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that offers a perfect blend of reliability, versatility, and advanced technology, the 2023 Toyota Highlander should be at the top of your list.
