Review and specifications

2023 Toyota Highlander

The redesigned for 2020, the fourth-generation Highlander retains its qualities of comfortable ride and a smooth powertrain. Handling is sound and secure. Interior fit and finish is upgraded, particularly in higher trim versions. The smooth and punchy 295-hp V6 packs a lot of reserve power and gets a competitive 22 mpg overall. The hybrid version is less powerful but gets an excellent 35 mpg overall. Both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations are available. Either way, the second row is very roomy but the third row is tiny. Controls are easy to use and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite includes standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional. Beginning with the 2021 model year, LED headlights (low and high beam) are now standard on all models. A sporty XSE trim is also new. Updates for 2022 include minor trim and color changes, plus the power passenger's seat gets more adjustments. For 2023, the Highlander got a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in place of the long-serving V6, plus a new infotainment system. For 2024, the L trim was discontinued and blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning became standard across the line. AWD is standard on gas models for 2026.

Market value

$35,325

Fuel

Conventional

Transmission

Automatic

Seats

7