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
The 2021 Toyota Sequoia comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.Nightshade package debuts with blacked-out exterior trim.
PROS Cargo area is one of the largest in this class For a big SUV, it rides pretty comfortably over bumps Flexible seating arrangement allows for up to eight passengers Respectable off-road capability for a big SUV
CONS Even among large SUVs, fuel economy is poor Audio controls and front central cupholders are hard to reach Recently updated infotainment system already feels dated
For 2021, the sole change to the Sequoia lineup is the addition of the new Nightshade model. Essentially an appearance package, it features black 20-inch wheels and darkened chrome on the grille, door handles, side trim, and badging. The Nightshade Sequoia also has black leather upholstery and is available in Wind Chill Pearl, Magnetic Gray, and Midnight Black.
PROS Third row is roomy enough for adults, plenty of standard driver-assistance tech, potent and proven V-8 powertrain.
CONS Unimpressive interior, unrefined ride, underwhelming fuel economy.
The 2021 Toyota Sequoia's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Large SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Sequoia has a score of 6.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 63 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Good predicted reliability rating Strong engine Spacious cabin
CONS Outdated infotainment system Hard plastics fill the cabin Ride can be uncomfortable Poor gas mileage
