2023 Toyota Highlander
Starting at $37.955

Highs Optional hybrid system's impressive fuel economy, top models' luxe interior trimmings, plentiful standard tech.
Lows Bland handling, limited third-row space, no fuel-economy improvement from the new four-cylinder.
Verdict The Highlander offers plenty of overall competence, a fuel-sipping hybrid model, and lots of features, but it's still behind the leaders of the three-row family SUV class.

Overview

The Highlander has plenty to offer, but in a brutally competitive mid-size SUV segment of more than two dozen vehicles, it's only a mid-pack player. There are eleven trims to choose from. Hybrid or nonhybrid powertrains are available, front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. All trims provide competent handling and a smooth ride, but the Highlander's driving demeanor could use a jolt of caffeine. The interior is nicely equipped, even on the base L, with modern conveniences, easy-to-use infotainment, and a host of driver-assistance features standard. The Limited and Platinum models do a good impression of a Lexus, with handsome leather upholstery, a premium JBL stereo system, and additional tech features. Despite all that, rivals such as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade deliver more luxury and third-row room, the Mazda CX-9 offers a nicer interior and better driving dynamics, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L brings that brand's off-road capability. The Highlander, while thoroughly competent, is a less compelling alternative in comparison.

What's New for 2023?

The Highlander's standard V-6 has been replaced by a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder for 2023. The new engine makes 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque; Toyota says the combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg is equal to that of the outgoing V-6, making us wonder why the switch to fewer cylinders was made. A new 12.3-inch infotainment display is available and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster now comes on Limited and Platinum trims. Those high-end models also gain power-folding exterior mirrors while the XLE and XSE trims add a hands-free power-operated rear liftgate.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
L: $37,955
LE: $40,355
Hybrid LE: $41,955
XLE: $43,355
XSE: $44,950
Hybrid XLE: $44,955
Limited: $47,610
Hybrid XLE Bronze Edition: $47,715
Hybrid Bronze Edition
$47,715: Hybrid Limited
$49,210
Platinum: $51,010
Hybrid Platinum: $52,410

In our view, the midrange XLE is the one to get. It has heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a power sunroof, among other niceties. We'd also spring for the Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation package, which brings in-dash navigation and an upgraded stereo system.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Highlander comes standard with a 265-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. At our test track, our all-wheel-drive test car with the 2.4-liter turbo hit 60 mph in a fairly leisurely 7.2 seconds. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors team up for a combined 243 horsepower in the Highlander Hybrid. This model comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a choice between front- and all-wheel drive. Leveraging Toyota's hybrid expertise, this powertrain provides buyers with something considerably more fuel efficient than the standard model without giving up much in terms of performance; at our test track, the last hybrid model we tested made it to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Handling is unexciting but stable, and the ride is perfectly suitable for family-chauffeur duty. Potential buyers in this segment will perhaps know that the Ford Explorer comes in hybrid form too. But pitting these utes against each other, the Toyota comes out on top in terms of fuel economy.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Base L and midrange LE models can seat eight passengers using bench seats in the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain's chairs is available on higher trims. Passenger space is more generous here than in the CX-9, but not as spacious as in the Chevrolet Traverse, especially in the third row, which is on the tight side for adults. Materials throughout the cabin are much improved over those in the last-generation Highlander. Upscale Limited and Platinum models provide the most creature comforts, but compared with the features proffered by the Palisade or Telluride, they fall short. The cargo area behind the third row fit a mere four carry-on suitcases; the Traverse fit six.
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