Toyota Highlander, the otherwise 3-row family vehicle is now coming in an all-new XSE model. It will be a sportier crossover with an aggressive look. Toyota Highlander 2021 is part of the second year of the current generation which comprises of models that have a more welcoming cabin and an improved driving experience. Toyota Highlander is one of the smallest choices in the market when it comes to three-row family crossover vehicles.
This new trim level will go on sale this fall as a 2021 model of Highlander.
Competitors
2021 Toyota Highlander will be competing with the new Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent. The new 2021 Highlander with its better size and cabin quality, ultra-efficient Highlander Hybrid model and impressive resale value outperforms its competitors and hence has a much better chance of striking big in the market.
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Interior
Toyota Highlander, being compact in size is more manoeuvrable and easier to park in smaller garages. Its small exterior size translates into a smaller interior capacity. For taller passengers, long journeys would be tiresome due to the limited headroom.
Toyota Highlander 2021 comes with a soft genuine leather packed interior. Wood on the dash and centre console is decent looking and tasteful. It is pleasant to touch. It also has a panoramic roof for a full-fledged view of the outside world.
Inside, the Highlander XSE has a unique colour scheme with red accents and red leather seats.
Most trim levels are fitted with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which for the convenience of passengers is mounted high within easy reach and sight.
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The infotainment features it controls include an 11-speaker JBL audio system and integrated navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa connectivity, satellite radio, in-car WiFi and Safety Connect emergency services. There are also five standard USB ports and the Driver Easy Speak system that broadcasts the driver’s voice through the rear speakers.
Exclusive features of 2021 Toyota Highlander
- 11-Speaker JBL Premium Sound System with Dynamic Navigation
- 20” Machine-Faced Wheels with Black Accents
- Amazon Alexa, Android Auto™, and Apple CarPlay™
- Black Mirror Caps, Roof Rails, and Window Moldings
- Black Softex-Trimmed Seating
- Carbon-Fiber Finished Instrument Panel
- Chrome Dual-Tip Exhaust
- Higher-Rate Rear Stabilizer Bar
- Higher-Rate Springs
- Interior Ambient Lighting
- Light-Strip Daytime Running Lights
- Multi-Terrain Select
- Red and Black Leather-Trimmed Interior
- Redesigned Front Fascia, Grille, and Lower Spoiler
- Re-Tuned Electric Power Steering
- Re-Tuned Shock Absorbers
- Unique Headlamps with Black Accents
- Unique Rocker Panels
Engine & Performance
The Highlander XSE is paired with a 3.5-litre V-6 churning out 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. We should expect an increased acceleration provided that Toyota Highlander 2021 is a lighter but more powerful vehicle. The XSE comes with the same eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Toyota claims that it has re-tuned the suspension with stiffer springs and dampers and the addition of a rear anti-roll bar; the steering is also said to provide sportier feel.
With a sportier grille, 20-inch wheels and a Highlander-first twin tip exhaust, the all-new 2021 #Highlander XSE promises to turn heads! Learn more from #CAS2020: https://t.co/jPcgL39i7X pic.twitter.com/m6MwkvCnal
— Toyota USA (@Toyota) February 7, 2020
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Fuel economy differs by trim levels. Within the city, you get between 20-21 mpg. On highways or motorways, you obtain an average of 27-29 mpg and 23-24 mpg combined. Fuel economy for the new XSE is not available yet as it is not yet launched in markets.
Toyota Highlander comes with a stiffer suspension system for a comfortable drive. According to Toyota, the Highlander XSE retains its smooth ride quality despite the added handling performance.
There’s a Sport mode found in 2021 Highlander which you can select, but the changes to the steering, throttle and transmission are difficult to detect.
2021 Toyota Highlander Pricing and availability
The 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE has a starting MSRP of $39,600/ 31,984 pounds. The 2020 Toyota Highlander Limited has a starting MSRP of $43,650/ 35,254 pounds.
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The 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE will likely be priced between those figures.
The 2021 Toyota Highlander model, along with the brand-new XSE grade/trim which debuted at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, is slated to release for American drivers in the fall of 2020.