2023 Toyota Highlander

2023 Highlander Photos
 Editors' Pick
Autoblog Rating
6.5

It's tough to recommend the Highlander outside of its efficient hybrid model. The base engine is wheezy; its interior is cramped, and the tech doesn't lead in any way.

Industry
8
The 2023 Toyota Highlander remains a strong three-row SUV choice, if you choose the hybrid. It's amazingly efficient, delivering 35 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. Not only is it a huge advantage over the conventional gas-powered Highlander, it represents a huge advantage over virtually every other SUV in its class. On the flip side, there's the conventional Highlander. And now, it's a worse SUV to drive. Toyota dropped the silky V6 in favor of a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It apparently has fewer emissions than the V6, but with a single mile-per-gallon improvement and a much noisier, more unpleasant driving experience, it's a downgrade in our book. Regardless of engine, you still get solid handling, an attractive and usable interior, and Toyota's reputation and subsequent resale value. A smaller third-row seat and cargo area are definite demerits, especially in a class where space is a prime factor in the purchase, and because of that, options such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent and Nissan Pathfinder could be better for you. If you don’t need that much room, however, the Highlander Hybrid is an unmatched option for its efficiency, and is definitely worth a look. The non-hybrid Highlander? Not so much. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Features   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? The Highlander has dropped its V6 engine option in favor of a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It delivers less power, but much more torque. It's also very slightly more efficient. The infotainment system has been updated to run on the system featured on other new Lexus and Toyota models. The standard touchscreen measures 8 inches, and the upgraded one is 12.3 inches. It also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Some minor feature changes for some trims have also been implemented. What are the Highlander interior and in-car technology like? Admittedly, the picture above is indicative of the higher XLE, Limited and Platinum trims – the lower L and LE are rather dour and monochromatic affairs. Yet, even those have above-average interior quality, and since those pricey trims tend to be popular, it's worth extolling their virtues a bit. The earthy two-tone color schemes are distinctive, warm and generally inviting. The silver trim that wraps around the control binnacle like a fork is textured to make it look richer and more like actual metal. The wood trim on the dash and center console, be it real or not, is subtle and tasteful. The padded SofTex vinyl that covers much of the dash, doors and center console is pleasant to touch, while the real leather on the seats is buttery soft. All the switchgear is pleasant to touch and operate. Standard on most trim levels is an 8-inch touchscreen interface, which is mounted high within easy reach and sight. The available 12.3-inch unit is largely similar in terms of its basic and operation, but gains functionality by …
Full Review
The 2023 Toyota Highlander remains a strong three-row SUV choice, if you choose the hybrid. It's amazingly efficient, delivering 35 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. Not only is it a huge advantage over the conventional gas-powered Highlander, it represents a huge advantage over virtually every other SUV in its class. On the flip side, there's the conventional Highlander. And now, it's a worse SUV to drive. Toyota dropped the silky V6 in favor of a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It apparently has fewer emissions than the V6, but with a single mile-per-gallon improvement and a much noisier, more unpleasant driving experience, it's a downgrade in our book. Regardless of engine, you still get solid handling, an attractive and usable interior, and Toyota's reputation and subsequent resale value. A smaller third-row seat and cargo area are definite demerits, especially in a class where space is a prime factor in the purchase, and because of that, options such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent and Nissan Pathfinder could be better for you. If you don’t need that much room, however, the Highlander Hybrid is an unmatched option for its efficiency, and is definitely worth a look. The non-hybrid Highlander? Not so much. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Features   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? The Highlander has dropped its V6 engine option in favor of a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It delivers less power, but much more torque. It's also very slightly more efficient. The infotainment system has been updated to run on the system featured on other new Lexus and Toyota models. The standard touchscreen measures 8 inches, and the upgraded one is 12.3 inches. It also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Some minor feature changes for some trims have also been implemented. What are the Highlander interior and in-car technology like? Admittedly, the picture above is indicative of the higher XLE, Limited and Platinum trims – the lower L and LE are rather dour and monochromatic affairs. Yet, even those have above-average interior quality, and since those pricey trims tend to be popular, it's worth extolling their virtues a bit. The earthy two-tone color schemes are distinctive, warm and generally inviting. The silver trim that wraps around the control binnacle like a fork is textured to make it look richer and more like actual metal. The wood trim on the dash and center console, be it real or not, is subtle and tasteful. The padded SofTex vinyl that covers much of the dash, doors and center console is pleasant to touch, while the real leather on the seats is buttery soft. All the switchgear is pleasant to touch and operate. Standard on most trim levels is an 8-inch touchscreen interface, which is mounted high within easy reach and sight. The available 12.3-inch unit is largely similar in terms of its basic and operation, but gains functionality by …
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Retail Price

$36,620 - $51,425 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 2.4L I-4
MPG Up to 22 city / 29 highway
Seating 8 Passengers
Transmission 8-spd auto w/OD
Power 265 @ 6000 rpm
Drivetrain all wheel, front-wheel
Curb Weight 4,155 - 4,453 lbs
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