2023 Toyota Highlander has a lot to offer, but in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment with more than two dozen vehicles, it’s just a mid-range performer. There are eleven trims to choose from.
Hybrid or nonhybrid powertrains are available, front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. All trims provide competent handling and a smooth ride, but the Highlander’s way of driving could use a jolt of caffeine.
The interior is well-equipped, even at the base of the L, with modern conveniences, easy-to-use infotainment, and a host of standard driver-assist features. The Limited and Platinum models make a good impression of the Lexus, with great leather seats, a premium JBL stereo system, and additional tech features.
Despite all that, rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade provide more luxury and third-row space, the Mazda CX-9 offers a nicer interior and better driving dynamics, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L delivers the brand’s off-road capabilities.
Highlander, while perfectly competent, is a less attractive alternative by comparison.
The standard Highlander V-6 has been replaced by a new 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for 2023. The new engine produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque; Toyota says its combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg is the same as the outgoing V-6, making us wonder why the switch to fewer cylinders was made.
A new 12.3-inch infotainment screen is available and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is now available on the Limited and Platinum trims. The high-end models also get power-folding exterior mirrors while the XLE and XSE trims add a hands-free rear liftgate.
2023 Toyota Highlander Review
Toyota launched the Highlander for the European market where it is currently the brand’s largest SUV model. It is now entering the model year 2023 on the Old continent, which brings new engines for select markets, new technologies, and new customization options.
The Highlander 2023 is now available for order in the region with first deliveries expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
Much like the US-spec Highlander 2023, the European model gets a new 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine replacing the outdated 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 engine.
Toyota says the new plant produces 269 horsepower (198 kilowatts), 4 hp (3 kW) more than the US model, and we think peak torque should be around 309 pound-feet (419 Newton-meters).
While these numbers drop slightly compared to the outgoing 3.5 V6, the automaker promises “high acceleration response and torque delivery.”
European buyers probably won’t be happy to hear the new 2.4-liter powertrain is only available in Eastern Europe. In the western continent, the Highlander 2023 is sold with a hybrid system using a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine supported by front and rear electric motors.
System output is rated at 248 hp (182 kW) with corresponding CO2 emissions of 146 grams per kilometer. Toyota says these numbers represent the best power-to-CO2 balance in the segment.
Another notable update for the Highlander 2023 in Europe is the introduction of a large 12.3-inch screen for the infotainment system.
This technology now comes with additional functionality such as cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic data, over-the-air software updates, 3D city mapping, fixed speed camera location information, and more.
Also new for the 2023 model year is the digital instrument cluster, which now comes with a new design. The new look creates a three-dimensional effect and can be adapted to four different design themes.
All 2023 Highlander models in Europe come as standard with a wireless charging pad. Apple CarPlay is wireless, while Android Auto connectivity is possible via cable. You can also lock and unlock the car and activate the hazard lights remotely.
Read next: All-New 2025 Toyota Highlander SUV Review
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2023 is a safe, reliable, and fuel-efficient family SUV, but there isn’t much room in the third row. We expect the price of the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid to start at around $40,000.
For drivers looking for a practical, safe, and fuel-efficient family SUV, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is hard to beat. The standard Highlander (reviewed separately) is already an excellent family carrier with a comfortable 3-row interior, plenty of standard features, and the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
The Highlander Hybrid takes all of those good qualities and adds an efficient hybrid powertrain that delivers 36 mpg city/35 mpg.
There are plenty of midsize 3-row SUVs on the market, but the Highlander Hybrid has few direct competitors in the hybrid space. Its closest rival is the Ford Explorer Hybrid, which is more expensive and less efficient than Toyota.
Highlander is undoubtedly a value choice between the two. Another option is the more affordable and efficient Kia Sorento Hybrid, but smaller and less family-friendly than the Highlander Hybrid.
Our only complaint with the Highlander Hybrid is the limited space in the third row of seats. They are suitable for children, but adults will find them uncomfortable on long trips. Consider the Toyota Sienna minivan if you want more space in a hybrid family vehicle.
There are some minor changes to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid for the 2023 model year. The stylish Bronze Edition now comes with an enhanced 12.3-inch infotainment system with navigation.
Additionally, the Limited and Platinum trims now have folding mirrors as standard equipment.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a fun and comfortable SUV to drive. The engine gets a little noisy under harsh acceleration, but that’s a forgivable flaw since you probably won’t be lining it up often.
For better or for worse, the Highlander Hybrid is an SUV that feels like a minivan from behind the wheel. If you prioritize comfort over sportiness, that’s not a bad thing. Acceleration is good enough for driving around town and through highways, but it won’t blow you away.
Steering is a bit numb, and there’s some body roll if you take corners too fast, but nothing surprising for a midsize family SUV.
Adding all-wheel drive (AWD) improves Highlander Hybrid traction throughout the season. This is a great upgrade if you live in a snowy climate, especially as there is virtually no fuel economy penalty compared to the front-wheel drive (FWD) model.
Hybrid Price
As a carryover model with few significant changes, we expect the price of the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid to start at around $40,000 and rise to around $50,000.
The Highlander Hybrid is a little pricey for a midsize SUV from a non-luxury brand like Toyota, but it’s a value option compared to the Ford Explorer Hybrid. Fords start at just over $50,000.
A more budget-friendly option in a 3-row hybrid SUV is the Kia Sorento Hybrid, but smaller than the Highlander Hybrid. If you want to drive a minivan, the Toyota Sienna hybrid is a more affordable and family-friendly alternative to the Highlander Hybrid.
Hybrid Interior
The interior of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid reflects its personality as a practical and comfortable family SUV.
The interior design is pleasing, and the materials are pretty good, especially in the top trim. The desired available features you get in the top trim include a 12.3-inch infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, and leather seats.
The first two rows of seats are quite spacious, but the third row is a different story. The third-row seats are quite narrow and only suitable for children. The Highlander Hybrid is a great SUV if you only have kids in the third row or if you rarely use those extra seats at all.
The second-row captain’s seat is standard on all but the base LE trim, making the second row more comfortable and the third row more accessible.
With the second row of seats, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid can accommodate a total of eight passengers. With the second-row captain’s seat, that’s seat seven.
Cargo space on the Highlander Hybrid is pretty good when all three rows of seats are in place. However, the more seats you can fold, the more cargo space you get. With all the seats behind the first row folded, this SUV has up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
Hybrid Exterior
The exterior of the Toyota Highlander is nice to look at, but it’s not the most attractive thing on the road. If you’re looking for an SUV with bold styling that won’t blend into the traffic, you may want to look elsewhere.
The Highlander’s look may change slightly depending on which trim you choose.
The Bronze Edition has quirky exterior accents such as bronze-colored alloy wheels, and the top two trims feature handsome 20-inch alloy wheels and LED projector headlamps.
The size of the Highlander Hybrid is average for a midsize SUV. Dimensions are similar to the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot. Some of the bigger and more spacious rivals include the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas.
Favorite Features
- EFFICIENT HYBRID POWERTRAIN
The hybrid powertrain of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid makes it much more fuel efficient than the average midsize SUV. It returns up to 36 mpg city/35 highway. Even with AWD, it gets 35 mpg both in the city and on the highway. - TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE 2.5+
This safety technology package comes as standard on every Highlander Hybrid. It incorporates desirable driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, fixed lane assist, automatic emergency braking, etc.
Standard Features
The base LE trim of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is well-equipped, which helps justify the high starting price.
Standard features include 3-row seating, 3-zone climate control, LED headlights and fog lamps, five USB ports, an electric driver’s seat, and a start button.
The standard infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa integration.
The Highlander Hybrid comes with an impressive list of standard safety features and driver assistance technologies.
For starters, the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system combines automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, full-speed adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.
Additionally, blind-spot monitoring with rear-traffic alerts is also standard.
Factory Option
One of the most popular options on the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is all-wheel drive. AWD gives this SUV better all-season traction and less fuel economy. This is optional on every trim.
This mid-range XLE trim is a popular model for its satisfying balance of features and value. In addition to what you get with the full LE trim, the XLE adds SofTex faux leather seating, second-row captain seats, heated front seats, wireless charging pads, a powered sunroof, and more.
The Bronze Edition is exclusive to the hybrid model, and it’s primarily an appearance package for the XLE trim.
A nice new perk for the 2023 model is the upgraded 12.3-inch infotainment system with navigation that is now standard on the Bronze Edition.
The two top trims of the Highlander Hybrid push this SUV into luxury territory. The Limited model adds stylish 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, JBL premium audio, folding mirrors, upgraded LED projector headlamps, and a power liftgate.
Go to the top Platinum trim, and you’ll be treated to a panoramic moonroof, 360-degree camera, memory driver’s seat, heated second-row seats, and a heads-up display.
Hybrid Engine & Transmission
The Highlander Hybrid’s power comes from a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine mated to an electric motor.
Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. If you opt for AWD, it adds a second electric motor, but that doesn’t change the power or torque ratings of this SUV.
Each Highlander Hybrid uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), a type of automatic. It has a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.
Compared to its main rival, the Ford Explorer Hybrid, the Highlander Hybrid is less powerful but more fuel efficient.
- 2.5 liter inline-4 + electric motor
- 243 horsepower total torque
- 175 lb-ft
- EPA city/highway fuel economy: 36/35 mpg (FWD), 35/35 mpg (AWD), 35/34 mpg (Limited/Platinum AWD)
2023 Toyota Highlander Interior
The Base L and midrange LE models can accommodate eight passengers using bench seats in the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain seats is available in higher trims.
Passenger space is more spacious here than on the CX-9, but not as extensive as on the Chevrolet Traverse, especially in the third row, which is on the narrow side for adults. Materials throughout the cabin are much better than those in the last generation Highlander.
The Limited High-end and Platinum models provide the most comfort, but compared to the features offered by the Palisade or Telluride, they fall short. The cargo area behind the third row only fits four suitcases; Traverse matches six.
An 8.0-inch infotainment system comes standard on most trims, but the Highlander Limited and Platinum get a 12.3-inch display with a secondary 12.3-inch display serving as the gauge cluster.
The mid-range XLE and XSE can be opted for with the larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen but retain the analog gauges of the lower-end models. An 11-speaker JBL audio system is available.
Toyota provides SiriusXM satellite radio, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration for all models. A wireless smartphone charging pad is optional and is integrated into the dashboard below the infotainment display.
Read next: New 2024 Toyota Highlander Review: Fresh Looks and Smart Technology SUV
2023 Toyota Highlander Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Highlander comes standard with a 265-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and front or all-wheel drive. We haven’t ridden this version yet, but when we do, we’ll be able to comment on its performance.
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors work together to produce 243 horsepower in the Highlander Hybrid. This model comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a choice between front and all-wheel drive.
Leveraging Toyota’s hybrid expertise, this powertrain gives buyers something far more fuel efficient than the standard model without sacrificing much in terms of performance; on our test track, the last hybrid model we tested managed to hit 60 mph in 7.3 seconds.
The handling is unattractive but stable, and the ride is perfect for family-driver duties. Potential buyers in this segment will probably know that the Ford Explorer also comes in a hybrid form. But pitting these utes against each other, Toyota came out on top in terms of fuel economy.
2023 Toyota Highlander MPG
So far, Toyota has only said that its new turbocharged engine is good for a combined 24 mpg, so we don’t know what the city and highway ratings will be.
The hybrid model will no doubt carry higher ratings than the petrol-only version, with the front-wheel drive variant delivering 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
When the Highlander visits our office, we will test its fuel efficiency on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route and update this story with the results. For more information on Highlander’s fuel economy, visit the EPA website.
2023 Toyota Highlander Price
In our view, the mid-range XLE is the best. It has heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a powered sunroof, among other goodies.
We’ll also be using the Premium Audio package with Dynamic Navigation, which features dashboard navigation and an improved stereo system.
- L $38,000 (est)
- LE $40,000 (est)
- Hybrid LE $41,000 (est)
- XLE $43,000 (est)
- Hybrid XLE $44,000 (est)
- XSE $45,000 (est)
- Hybrid XLE Bronze Edition $46,000 (est)
- Limited $47,000 (est)
- Hybrid Limited $48,000 (est)
- Platinum $50,000 (est)
- Hybrid Platinum $51,000 (est)
2023 Highlander Release Date
The Toyota Highlander has been the best-selling three-row midsize SUV for the past six years – and aims to continue its dominance with several upgrades for the 2023 model year.
These include a new turbocharged engine and new features across the trim line. Find out the release date, price, specifications, and features of the new Toyota Highlander 2023.
The release date of the Toyota Highlander 2023 is likely to be late Summer/early Fall 2022. It will be available for purchase at Toyota dealerships across the United States, as well as in select international markets.
The Highlander was built at the Toyota Manufacturing Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, along with the Sequoia SUV and Sienna minivan.
2023 Highlander Release Date
2023 Toyota Highlander Release Date
Toyota Highlander 2023 Release Date
Grand Highlander Release Date
Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2023 Release Date
Previous Article
2023 Toyota Highlander has been the best-selling three-row midsize SUV for the past six years – and aims to continue its dominance with several upgrades for the 2023 model year.
These include a new turbocharged engine and new features across the trim line. Find out the release date, price, specifications, and features of the new Toyota Highlander 2023.
The release date of the Toyota Highlander 2023 will likely be in late Summer/early Fall 2022. It will be available for purchase at Toyota dealerships across the United States, as well as in select international markets.
The Highlander was built at the Toyota Manufacturing Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, along with the Sequoia SUV and Sienna minivan.
Toyota hasn’t released any pricing information for the Highlander 2023. However, given the increase and high inflation, the Highlander 2023 is likely to be slightly more expensive than the Highlander 2022.
The starting price for the 2022 Highlander ranges from $35,855 MSRP for the L trim to $49,510 MSRP for the Platinum Hybrid trim.
2023 Toyota Highlander Review
The new 265-hp turbocharged inline-four engine has less horsepower but more torque than before and promises the same EPA fuel economy figures. The Toyota Highlander 2023 is updated with a new 265-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine.
The interior also gets updates including a larger infotainment screen and digital gauge cluster, both optional.
Expect the 2023 Highlander to go on sale later this year with a slight price increase.
It seems Toyota has started discontinuing the tried and true 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The Highlander 2023 three-row SUV swaps that naturally aspirated motor for a new turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four that produces 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque — a 30 hp drop from the V-6 but a 46 pound-feet increase in torque. Toyota claims that the four-cylinder will achieve the same 24 mpg when combined with the V-6 in terms of its EPA rating.
The new petrol engine will be paired again with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive or front. The Lexus NX350 also uses this version of the engine; in applications, it produces 275 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque.
The towing capacity for the Highlander will not change at 5,000 pounds. The Highlander hybrid powertrain will not change for the new model year and should achieve the same EPA rating of up to 36 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive model.
Other updates include a new optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster offered on the Limited and Platinum trim levels. New power folding mirrors come standard on all models, and the XLE and XSE trims get a power liftgate as standard.
The wireless smartphone charger was moved to a more comfortable spot on the dashboard, and there’s been a slight change in interior trim and a new exterior color called Cypress.
Toyota hasn’t released pricing for the updated Highlander yet, but we think it will cost a bit more than the 2022 model starting at $37,070 for the base L model and going up to $51,175 for the Platinum.
2023 Toyota Highlander Update
Toyota Highlander 2023 Debuts With New 265-HP Turbo Four Cylinder. The Toyota Highlander 2023 comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to replace the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. The new engine produces 265 horsepower (198 kilowatts) and 309 pound-feet (419 Newton-meters) of torque, versus the 295 hp (220 kW) and 263 lb-ft (357 Nm) of the outgoing power plant.
Toyota notes that the fuel economy for the Highlander with the new turbo engine remains the same as the V6 engine but with lower NOx, NMOG, and CO2 emissions. A 5,000-pound (2,268 kilograms) engine was also brought from the six-cylinder plant.
The Limited and Platinum classes of the Highlander 2023 now have a pair of 12.3-inch displays. Previously, there was a 7.0-inch display in the instrument cluster. This technology supports dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto. This trim level also receives standard power-folding side mirrors.
A larger screen is optional on the XLE and XSE trim levels. These models come with a 7.0-inch display in the instrument cluster and an 8.0-inch monitor for infotainment. This trim level now offers an optional hands-free power liftgate.
For the L and LE classes, the 7.0-inch screen for instruments replaces the previous 4.2-inch monitor there.
The revised interior also has a repositioned wireless charging pad which is now on a shelf in front of the infotainment screen.
The Highlander Hybrid has no powertrain changes. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two motor generators produce a total of 243 horsepower (181 kilowatts). It returns 36 miles per gallon of combined fuel economy and can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms).
The Highlander comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system. It includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, steering-assisted lane departure warning, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and automatic high light. Grades LE and above have blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic warning. The Limited and Platinum have front and rear parking assistance with automatic braking. The 360-degree camera system is optional for the Limited and standard on the Platinum model.
Read next: 2023 Toyota Tundra: The Exclusive Next-Gen Toyota Tundra Preview
Toyota Highlander Rumors
Six months ago, it was reported that Toyota was introducing the Grand Highlander, hinting at a new addition in its range. Recently there has been a lot of information about a larger version of the Highlander which, according to Automotive News, will launch in 2023. The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander (sold as Kluger in Australia) premiered in 2019, continuing the legacy that began in 2000 when the board name was introduced. Toyota’s TNGA-based three-row SUV was also introduced in Europe and China this year.
While the Highlander has grown in dimension with each new generation, there has always been a need for larger and more spacious vehicles, especially in the US market. Toyota’s current lineup includes the larger Sequoia (plus the Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser Series 300 which aren’t available in the United States), but truck-based SUVs that start at $50,500) are much more expensive than the standard-based Highlander.
Which is priced starting at $35,085 (Rp 505 million). Thus, to bridge the gap, Toyota is rumored to be developing a Grand Highlander variant which can cost slightly more than the Highlander while offering extra space.
According to recent reports, the Grand Highlander will be produced in Indiana alongside the Sienna MPV. Of course, it will be longer than the regular Highlander which measures 194.9 inches (4,950 mm), thanks to an extended wheelbase and/or longer rear overhang. This will provide more legroom for third-row passengers and possibly more luggage.
Under the hood, it is expected that the Grand Highlander will offer the same engine options as the regular Highlander, including a V6 and four-cylinder hybrid. The latter combines a 2.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 243 hp (181 kW / 246 PS) which will be enough to add weight. The plan, the Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to be launched in 2023, as a 2024 model.
Toyota Highlander Redesign
In the redesign, Trucks and SUVs keep getting bigger and bigger. The Toyota Highlander may not be the exception to this rule. New reports suggest that the Toyota Grand Highlander will be a taller and longer Highlander model.
According to Automotive News, the Toyota Highlander will be stretched soon. The new model will be known as the Toyota Grand Highlander. This makes us wonder if the Jeep Grand Cherokee L will have a problem with its name.
We’ll have to wait and see what happens. Until then, we know that Toyota filed a trademark for the Grand Highlander moniker in December. The 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander may debut in 2022.
The Grand Highlander will be placed between the regular Toyota Highlander and the updated Toyota Sequoia 2023 to expand their lineup of crossover options. It will have third-row seats which are larger than the standard Highlander but will not be as large as the Sequoia.
The current Toyota Highlander has a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque. The Highlander Hybrid has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque.
If properly equipped, the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 lbs. The petrol engine looks like it has enough power for an entry-level trim, but we’d like to see an increase in towing capacity to around 6,000 to 7,000 lbs. In this way, it will be stronger than rivals like the Kia Telluride.
While the current hybrid powertrain in the Toyota Highlander seems a little soft, Toyota has a few more options in the works. Rumors suggest that a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain is on its way.
This new powertrain option is expected to debut in the Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Tundra Pro. But it could come with the Toyota Grand Highlander too. It will be powerful and efficient with instant torque to enhance off-road capability.
It’s hard to say whether the new Toyota Grand Highlander will be a luxury option or a more practical ride. But the Toyota Highlander gets a longer wheelbase. This means that while it will have more passenger and cargo space, it will also provide a smoother ride.
The Toyota Land Cruiser functions as a luxury SUV. There is a possibility that the Toyota Grand Highlander could replace it. But the 2021 Land Cruiser starts at around $85,665, and we’re not seeing a Grand Highlander that high.
You can start with the cheaper Highlander for around $35,085. This price feels high, but not high luxury. Also, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee L starts at around $36,995. The Grand Highlander has to be close to that price to compete.
What we do know is that an even bigger Toyota Highlander is coming. It will most likely have a hybrid powertrain and offer more passenger space. But we don’t know how luxurious or powerful it is. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.
Read next: 2023 Toyota 4Runner: What We Know So Far
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Six months ago, it was reported that Toyota trademarked the name Grand Highlander, hinting at a new addition in its range. Today, we have more information about the larger version of the Highlander which, according to Automotive News, will launch in 2023.
The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander (sold as Kluger in Australia) premiered in 2019, continuing the legacy that began in 2000 when the nameplate was introduced. Toyota’s TNGA-based three-row SUV was also introduced in Europe and China this year.
While the Highlander has grown in dimension with each new generation, there has always been a need for larger and more spacious vehicles – especially in the US market. Toyota’s current lineup includes the larger Sequoia (plus the Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser Series 300 that aren’t available in the United States), but truck-based SUVs starting at $50,500) are much more expensive than the car-based Highlander. which starts at $35,085. Thus, to bridge the gap, Toyota is rumored to be developing a Grand Highlander variant which can cost slightly more than the Highlander while offering extra space.
According to recent reports, the Grand Highlander will be produced in Indiana alongside the Sienna MPV. Of course, it will be longer than the regular Highlander which measures 194.9 inches (4,950 mm), thanks to an extended wheelbase and/or longer rear overhang. This will provide more legroom for third-row passengers and possibly more luggage.
Under the hood, we expect the Grand Highlander to offer the same engine options as the regular Highlander, including a V6 and four-cylinder hybrid. The latter combines a 2.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 243 hp (181 kW / 246 PS) which will be enough to add weight.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to launch in 2023, as a 2024 model.
Toyota Highlander Interior
On the inside, the Base L and midrange LE models can accommodate eight passengers using bench seats in the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with a second-row captain’s seat is available in higher trims. Passenger space is more spacious here than on the CX-9, but not as extensive as on the Chevrolet Traverse, especially in the third row. Materials throughout the cabin are much better than those in the last generation Highlander.
The Limited High-end and Platinum models provide the most comfort, but compared to the features offered by the Palisade or Telluride, they fall short. The cargo area behind the third row only fits four suitcases; Traverse matches six.
An 8.0-inch infotainment system comes standard on most trims, but the Highlander Limited and Platinum get a 12.3-inch display. An 11-speaker JBL audio system is available. Toyota provides SiriusXM satellite radio, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration for all models.
Toyota Highlander 2023 Engine
On the engine side, the Highlander comes with a 295-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel or front drive. During a short test drive, we found that the V-6 can tackle short climbs without tiring; on our test track, our all-wheel-drive test vehicle managed to hit 60 mph in a pretty quick 6.7 seconds. The handling is unattractive but stable, and the ride is perfect for family-driver duties.
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors work together to produce 243 horsepower in the Highlander Hybrid. This model comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a choice between front and all-wheel drive.
Leveraging Toyota’s hybrid expertise, this powertrain gives buyers something more fuel-efficient than the standard model. The tradeoff comes in acceleration performance, both due to the hybrid’s lower horsepower rating and the fact that this model uses a CVT instead of that nonhybrid eight-speed automatic.
On our test track, the hybrid model managed to hit 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Potential buyers in this segment will probably know that the Ford Explorer also comes in a hybrid form. But pitting these utes against each other, Toyota came out on top in terms of fuel economy.
How Long Do Toyota Highlanders Last
Statistics show the Toyota Highlander can run up to 300,000 miles, or about 20 years. That’s a long time to stock up on any car, but Highlander drivers seem content with their purchase. According to iSeeCars, 12.4 percent of Highlander owners keep their car for more than 15 years, double the average SUV range.
Is A Toyota Highlander Hybrid Worth The Extra Money
Is It Worth Buying A Toyota Highlander Hybrid? The Motortrend website points out that stepping up to the hybrid trim levels in the LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels adds around $1,400 to the bottom line and considering that you get quiet motor operation and a nice bump in gas mileage (the base V6 is rated on 21 city/29 highway), it’s worth it.
Toyota Highlander 2023 MPG
The EPA estimates that the Highlander V-6 will deliver up to 29 mpg on the road when equipped with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive cuts it down to 2 mpg. The hybrid model carries the rating higher, with the front-wheel-drive variant delivering 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
We’ve tested the standard Highlander on our 200-mile highway fuel-efficient route, which delivers 28 mpg. When the hybrid visits our office, we will test its fuel efficiency on the same route. For more information on Highlander’s fuel economy, visit the EPA website.
2023 Toyota Highlander Price
We expect the Toyota Highlander 2023 3-row midsize SUV to have a starting price of around $35,500 when it rolls out to dealerships.
The Highlander is offered in a fairly wide trim range, and having two engine options (potentially three, if a plug-in hybrid joins the range) allows SUV buyers to prioritize power or fuel economy.
The Platinum trim occupies the Highlander’s top cap with an estimated asking price of close to $48,000.
- L $37,420
- LE $39,620
- LE Hybrid $41,070
- XLE $42,620
- XLE Hybrid $44,070
- XSE $44,215
- Hybrid Bronze Edition $46,095
- Limited $46.575
- Limited Hybrid $48,025
- Platinum $49,775
- Platinum Hybrid $51,225
2023 Toyota Highlander Release Date
Toyota hasn’t given us news of the Highlander 2023 release yet, but usually, new models come out in the fall.
Likewise, the price of the 2023 Highlander has not been announced. Current models range from $36,420 (including destination) to $48,776 for the top-of-the-line model. If we look at the redesign, we can see the price increase by several thousand dollars across the board.
When will Grand Toyota Highlander be available? The Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to launch in 2023, as a 2024 model.
