The 2023 Toyota Highlander stands as a formidable contender in the midsize SUV segment, boasting a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability that has captivated drivers for years. This three-row SUV seamlessly blends everyday usability with a touch of sophistication, making it a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike.
With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and robust powertrain options, the 2023 Highlander aims to redefine what it means to drive a midsize SUV.
From its sleek exterior design to its well-appointed cabin, the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a compelling package that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Highlander provides a comfortable and confident driving experience.
But what truly sets this SUV apart is its commitment to safety and reliability, two hallmarks that have become synonymous with the Toyota brand.
2023 Toyota Highlander Overview
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability. It’s a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a spacious and versatile vehicle that can handle everyday driving as well as weekend adventures.
The Highlander has been a mainstay in the midsize SUV segment for years, consistently receiving praise for its dependability and value.
Key Features and Design Elements
The 2023 Toyota Highlander boasts a refined exterior design that combines sharp lines with a modern aesthetic. It features a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a sculpted hood. The Highlander’s overall design is both stylish and functional, with a focus on maximizing interior space and passenger comfort.
- The Highlander’s exterior design is a mix of sharp lines and curves, giving it a modern and sporty appearance.
- The front grille is large and bold, while the headlights are slim and angular.
- The Highlander’s profile features a high roofline and a sloping rear window, creating a spacious interior.
- The rear end is well-defined with taillights that wrap around the sides.
Available Trims and Distinguishing Characteristics
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is available in a variety of trims, each offering a unique combination of features and amenities.
- L: The base trim offers standard features such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features.
- LE: The LE trim adds a power liftgate, heated front seats, and a larger 9-inch touchscreen.
- XLE: The XLE trim upgrades to leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
- Limited: The Limited trim includes a more luxurious interior with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display.
- Platinum: The top-of-the-line Platinum trim features a premium interior with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, and advanced driver assistance technologies.
Target Audience and Appeal
The 2023 Toyota Highlander appeals to a wide range of buyers, including families, professionals, and individuals seeking a reliable and spacious SUV.
- Families: The Highlander’s spacious interior, third-row seating, and numerous safety features make it an ideal choice for families.
- Professionals: The Highlander’s comfortable ride, advanced technology, and fuel efficiency make it a practical option for professionals.
- Individuals: The Highlander’s versatility, stylish design, and off-road capabilities make it a good choice for individuals who want a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations.
Performance and Handling
The 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engine options, each providing a different balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Engine Options and Power Output, 2023 toyota highlander
- 2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine: This engine produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for everyday driving.
- 3.5L V6 Engine: This engine generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, providing more power for towing and off-road adventures.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2023 Toyota Highlander’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen engine and trim level.
- The four-cylinder engine achieves an estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
- The V6 engine achieves an estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
Driving Experience
The 2023 Toyota Highlander provides a comfortable and refined driving experience.
- The Highlander’s suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth ride.
- The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and on winding roads.
- The Highlander’s acceleration is smooth and linear, with ample power for passing and merging.
Interior and Technology
The 2023 Toyota Highlander’s interior is designed to provide a comfortable and spacious environment for both passengers and cargo.
Interior Space and Comfort Features
The Highlander’s spacious cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The third row is comfortable for adults on shorter trips, while the second row provides generous space for passengers of all sizes.
- The Highlander’s interior is well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a comfortable layout.
- The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering ample adjustment options.
- The Highlander’s cargo area is spacious and versatile, with multiple configurations to accommodate different cargo needs.
Infotainment System
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes equipped with an advanced infotainment system that offers a wide range of features and connectivity options.
- The standard infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a six-speaker sound system.
- Higher trim levels offer a larger 9-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, and a navigation system.
- The Highlander’s infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a user-friendly interface.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technologies
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver assistance technologies.
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5: This suite of advanced safety features includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.
- Other Safety Features: The Highlander also offers optional features such as a head-up display, a driver attention monitor, and a rear cross-traffic alert system.
Reliability and Safety
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability and safety, backed by a strong reputation and comprehensive warranty coverage.
Reliability Ratings and History
Toyota vehicles are consistently ranked among the most reliable in the industry, and the Highlander is no exception.
- The Highlander has a long history of reliability, with consistently high ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
- Toyota’s reputation for quality and durability is well-established, contributing to the Highlander’s high reliability scores.
Safety Features and Effectiveness
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, designed to protect passengers and pedestrians in a variety of driving situations.
- The Highlander’s standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.
- These features have been proven to be effective in reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
- The Highlander has received top safety ratings from organizations such as the IIHS and NHTSA.
Warranty Coverage
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes with a comprehensive warranty package, providing peace of mind for owners.
- The Highlander has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Toyota also offers a 7-year/100,000-mile corrosion perforation warranty.
Competition and Pricing: 2023 Toyota Highlander
The 2023 Toyota Highlander faces stiff competition in the midsize SUV segment, with numerous popular models vying for buyers’ attention.
Main Competitors
The 2023 Toyota Highlander’s main competitors include the Honda Pilot, the Ford Explorer, the Chevrolet Traverse, and the Subaru Ascent.
- The Honda Pilot is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
- The Ford Explorer offers a rugged and powerful driving experience.
- The Chevrolet Traverse provides a spacious and value-oriented option.
- The Subaru Ascent is known for its all-wheel drive capability and safety features.
Pricing Structure and Value Proposition
The 2023 Toyota Highlander’s pricing is competitive within the midsize SUV segment.
- The starting MSRP for the 2023 Highlander is around $36,000.
- Higher trim levels with additional features and amenities can reach upwards of $50,000.
- The Highlander offers a good value proposition, considering its features, reliability, and safety.
Available Incentives and Financing Options
Toyota often offers incentives and financing options to make the Highlander more affordable for buyers.
- Check with your local Toyota dealership for current incentives and financing options.
User Reviews and Opinions
User reviews and opinions provide valuable insights into the real-world experience of owning a 2023 Toyota Highlander.
Key Themes and Insights
User reviews consistently praise the 2023 Toyota Highlander for its reliability, spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some users have noted that the Highlander’s handling can be somewhat underwhelming, and the third row might be cramped for adults on longer trips.
Categories of Reviews
- Performance: Many users appreciate the Highlander’s smooth and powerful engine options, while some find the handling to be a bit soft.
- Interior: Users consistently praise the Highlander’s spacious interior, comfortable seats, and high-quality materials.
- Technology: The infotainment system receives mixed reviews, with some users finding it user-friendly while others prefer a more intuitive interface.
- Reliability: The Highlander’s reliability is consistently praised by users, reflecting Toyota’s reputation for quality and durability.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reliable and durable | Handling can be underwhelming |
| Spacious interior | Third row might be cramped for adults |
| Comfortable ride | Infotainment system can be a bit clunky |
| Fuel-efficient | Limited cargo space with the third row up |
Closing Notes
The 2023 Toyota Highlander emerges as a well-rounded SUV that excels in a variety of areas. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and performance makes it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable and capable vehicle. With its advanced safety features, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient powertrains, the Highlander stands ready to tackle any adventure, offering a seamless blend of style, substance, and driving satisfaction.