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 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Punchy yet efficient hybrid powertrain Comfortable ride Upscale interior Many standard tech and safety features
Cons Cramped third row Relatively high starting price
The Highlander is all new for 2020 and is vastly improved compared with the 2019 model it replaces. Next year, a sportier-looking XSE model will join the lineup.
Pros Handsomely styled, fuel-sipping hybrid option, well equipped even at the base level.
Cons Boring driving dynamics, snug third-row passenger space, busy dashboard design
The Highlander is fully redesigned for 2020.Hybrid now uses a four-cylinder instead of a V6.A little less power than before, but much better fuel economy.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Strong fuel economy estimates of 35-36 mpg combined Available all-wheel drive for all models Sensibly priced compared to the non-hybrid Highlander Plenty of standard and available safety features
Cons Third-row seats are small, even for kids Engine noise is noticeably unrefined Interior design already looks dated
