Like the regular Q5, the high-performance SQ5 receives a host of exterior updates, including an all-new Sportback variant, for 2021 to freshen its look. New exterior lighting elements, a tweaked grille and bumpers, and new wheel designs differentiate it from last year's model. The top-spec Prestige gets OLED taillights as standard, and two new colors join the palette: Ultra Blue and District Green.
Pros Handsomely-equipped cabin, comfortable ride, decent fuel economy for a performance SUV.
Cons Not overly spacious, turbo V-6 doesn't match rivals' horsepower, handling not as sharp as it could be.
Sportier Sportback does well to not compromise on practicality, but you’ll pay a premium for odd looks.
Pros Impressively practical despite the roof, interior is still top of the class
Cons It will give you an existential crisis. What is it all for?
All-new model for 2021.Has a sleeker style than the regular SQ5.Comes standard with an adaptive sport suspension.Part of the first Q5 Sportback generation introduced 2021.
Pros Impressively comfortable ride for a sport-tuned SUV Luxurious but restrained interior design Nimble handling
Cons Infotainment system is distracting to use Less overall storage space than standard SQ5
The 2021 Toyota Highlander learned new tricks to keep us entertained on the road, when we’re not asleep in the back anyway.
Pros Better style New sporty XSE look Still practical… ...and fuel efficient Great standard safety
Cons Infotainment is still a headache Exterior is a little busy Pricey top models Small-ish third row
The sporty-looking XSE trim level joins the Highlander lineup for 2021. It punches up the looks with more aggressive exterior styling, unique 20-inch wheels, black exterior accents, and a sportier calibration for the suspension. Elsewhere, LED projection headlamps are now a standard feature and all models receive additional driver-assistance features, including semi-automated emergency steering technology that's designed to help a driver avoid collisions.
Pros Attractive design, optional hybrid powertrain, generous standard features.
Cons Few driving thrills, skimpy third-row room, fussy interior styling.
The 2021 Toyota Highlander comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 2 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.New sporty XSE trim debuts.
Pros Comfortable, quiet ride Easy to see out of Good power and fuel economy from V6 engine
Cons Third row is kids-only Below-average cargo space behind the third-row seat
