2023 Toyota Highlander Review

Whether it’s technology, spaciousness, versatility or luxurious living that concerns you, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is poised to cover your needs. Even better, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid adds incredible fuel efficiency to the list.

The 2-3-3 layout is standard on the L and LE. This includes a center bench seat to allow for 8 seats in 141.8 cubic feet of passenger space. 2nd-row legroom is rated at a comfortable 38.7 inches. Sliding chairs make it easier for 3rd row passengers to get in and out. Reclining chairs add comfort and wiggle room in these midsize SUVs.

The 2-2-3 layout includes center captain’s chairs, changing the seating to just 7 positions. There are full LATCH attachments on the two outboard second-row seats on either layout.

This is a real hauler with up to 84 cubic feet in total cargo area. If you fold the second row, it nets 48 cubic feet of cargo space. The standard 16-cubic foot hold can be accessed easily by the lighter weight liftgate, especially with the available hands-free power feature.

The new model year brings a renewed emphasis on efficient performance. To do this, Toyota has exchanged its V6 for a clever turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It is paired with 8-speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.

Acting like a V6 without drinking fuel like one, this unit kicks out 265 horsepower and a whopping 310 pound-feet of torque. This big rig can tow 3,500 pounds with its hybrid powertrain and 5,000 pounds with the standard engine.

Regular FWD models earn 36 mpg in the city. However, you may be tempted by all-wheel drive when you hear what it can do. The multi-terrain select system has these important settings: mud & sand and rock & dirt. This allows the Highlander to do more than it has before when it comes to rough surfaces like dirt roads and gravel trails.

For the best fuel economy, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is still the number one choice among three row rides. This 243-horsepower unit has a high rate of torque thanks to the dual motors that assist its four-cylinder engine. With an electric motor dedicated to each axle, all-wheel drive is easily accomplished.

The Highlander Hybrid is much more efficient than many other three-row rides such as the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride. Schedule a test drive to see which Highlander is right for you.

Toyotas start out with a well-designed 8-inch touchscreen. Aspects include Android auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. You can download your Waze app, AppleMaps or Google Maps and enjoy navigation on the screen.

Stepping up, there’s a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a wireless charging pad. This system can be paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel for the ultimate cockpit. Other features of this system include Amazon Alexa integration and SiriusXM connectivity.

Enjoying all of this entertainment is easier because Highlanders are packed with noise dampening materials. Every aspect of the cabin has been targeted for soundproofing. A standard acoustic windshield is matched with acoustic side glass in the top trim levels.

Driver Easy Speak is an intercom that utilizes the built-in microphone. It allows a parent to talk with the kids on the back row without turning around.

One of the newest technologies on the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid is the rear occupant alert. It is designed to assist parents and caregivers, helping ensure that kids and pets aren’t accidentally left behind upon the driver’s departure.

A 4G WiFi hotspot is available by subscription. This allows everyone in the family to enjoy streaming on their smart devices.

The L value package includes tri-zone automatic climate controls, ample dash tech, and a power-adjustable driver’s chair. Highlander LE trims are the first offered as both standard and hybrid editions. A power liftgate is one of its valuable amenities.

XLE models add comforts and luxuries. The cabin is dressed in a rich leatherette. There’s a moonroof overhead, and the front passenger gets a power-adjustable chair. Second-row standards include captain’s chairs and manual sunshades.

The Bronze Edition is the stylish sporty upgrade for the hybrid powertrain. On the other hand, Highlander XSE trims are high tech, sporty versions of the XLE with the standard powertrain.

Limited and Platinum trims pile on so many luxuries that they could easily be mistaken for Lexus luxury models. Ventilated seats are a favorite standard for our Phoenix summers. The panoramic moonroof is fun for the kids. It certainly opens the cabin up to natural light.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a Top Safety Pick Plus, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These models also scored the 5-star safety rating from federal crash testers. The IIHS even gave a rare GOOD Rating to the Highlander’s LATCH attachments for car seats. Plus Toyota chooses to pack the cabin with 8 airbags instead of the traditional 6.

Defensive driving is emphasized by Toyota Safety Sense. After all, it’s easier to stay safe if the driver is able to avoid the collision completely. That’s the idea behind Toyota’s effective forward collision system.

Watching for stopping traffic ahead of the Highlander and pedestrians in its path, the system will trigger an audible and visual warning. Then it may trigger an automatic braking response. This system, standard on the L trim and above, earned a Superior IIHS rating.

Other standards include a lane departure system with steering assist and high beam assist. Adaptive cruise control is standard with its radar-enabled capability and related features such as the road sign assist and lane tracing assist.

Additional features include the available blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and advanced pre-collision system with intersection support. The available Head Up Display puts key information in easy view.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander price is shaped around a large value package at every rung on the trim ladder. Furthermore, the Highlander earns high marks for resale values and durability. It scores a “great” rating for reliability from JD Power.

As for ownership costs, the Highlander Hybrid is sure to keep costs low with its remarkable efficiency. In fact, the hybrid system covers owners up to 96 months or 100,000 miles. Furthermore, all Toyotas receive free maintenance for up to two years. Our financing offers help many buyers get favorable Highlander loans and leases.

Parking a spacious 3-row ride can be a challenge. Fortunately Toyota has everything you need to make it simple. And these features have become more active to include automatic braking in certain instances.

A rearview camera starts you off right, and it can include a camera washer to make sure the view is clear. With the rear cross traffic system, the driver is warned about approaching traffic. Some trims upgrade the system to include a rear cross traffic autobrake.

The Birds Eye Camera shows the driver everything around the ute’s perimeter. With front and rear parking sensors, there’s less chance of hitting obstacles. Sonar increases its ability to detect motion from pedestrians and other sources. These features can be made more active with a front and rear responsive autobrake.

To learn more about features and prices, check out our inventory. Feel free to reach out through online chat or a phone call. Of course, a test drive is always the most fun way to get to know this smart 3 row SUV.