The Toyota Highlander is a well-respected three-row SUV, known for its impressive array of standard features, premium optional amenities, and ample space for families. In addition to its comfort and convenience, the Highlander includes advanced engineering and safety technologies. The affordable base models are well-equipped, while the top Limited and Platinum trims provide luxurious amenities. For 2023, the Highlander introduces a new Bronze Edition model with a distinctive and sophisticated exterior design.
The Toyota Highlander is also breaking the mold for family haulers with Bronze Edition trim that was originally introduced for the 2022 model year. This version of the Highlander boasts exclusive 18-inch wheels, illuminated sills, and bronze stitching, adding a stylish touch to the exterior. The interior is also noteworthy, with a mid-century American design theme that sets it apart in the crowded full-size SUV market. But even without the Bronze Edition touch, the Highlander’s curb appeal is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Its sharp character lines and distinctive LED lights give an undeniable dash of style to the parenting life. When you need to give up the flashy coupe to drive a family SUV, the Highlander ensures you can still feel good about it.
The Toyota Highlander's engine for the 2023 model year has been updated to a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, replacing the previous V6. This new engine offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, producing 265 horsepower and utilizing an eight-speed automatic transmission with the option for either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Overall, the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a comfortable driving experience, with a smooth ride and easy handling, making it a suitable choice for both family trips and daily commuting.
A hybrid Highlander is available, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a continuously variable automatic transmission. This hybrid model also offers the choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive and has a total output of 243 horsepower while providing an exceptional fuel economy of 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.[1] These are figures that would once have been impossible for a vehicle of the Highlander’s size — but Toyota is always raising the bar.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander makes it easy to stay connected on the go with standard wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ on all models, allowing you to access your favorite apps on the high-resolution infotainment touch screen. The Highlander Limited and Platinum versions feature dual 12.3-inch screens, one serving as the primary central display and the other functioning as a fully digital instrument cluster with four different driving modes: Casual, Smart, Tough, and Sporty. In addition, the infotainment system includes Amazon Alexa compatibility, four USB-C ports, satellite radio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The top trim levels also offer wireless device charging, making it easier than ever to keep the cabin free of cable clutter.
The Highlander has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for 15 years running. It also earned the coveted Top Safety Pick+ award for the last three years, including the 2023 model. To do this, it won the maximum score in every crash evaluation and demonstrated superior front crash prevention with both vehicles and pedestrians. It also has superior ease of use of its LATCH child seat anchor system as well as headlights that provide good visibility. Toyota has been a trendsetter in the automotive safety sector for a long time and the 2023 Highlander is yet another example of it.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a range of intelligent safety features, starting with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ on all models. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic high beams, full-speed dynamic radar adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert with steering assistance. These technologies work together to help you avoid accidents and can even actively intervene to prevent or minimize their impact.
Upgrading to the Limited adds front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking, while the Platinum trim includes adaptive front lighting, a 360-degree camera system, a digital rearview mirror, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The Platinum also features a head-up display, allowing drivers to view important driving and safety information without taking their eyes off the road.
Many three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander sacrifice cargo space for passenger room, but the Highlander is an exception. Even with a spacious third row, it still offers 16 cubic feet of trunk space for your groceries. If you need even more room, folding the third row expands the cargo area to over 48 cubic feet, and folding the second row increases total capacity to a generous 84.3 cubic feet. In addition to its practicality, the Highlander Platinum offers luxurious amenities for its occupants, including heated and ventilated leather seats, a panoramic roof, heated second-row seats, and an 11-speaker JBL® sound system.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is a well-rounded three-row SUV, offering capability, comfort, a range of equipment, and advanced safety features. It also offers a range of luxurious amenities for those seeking a more sophisticated ride. The Highlander is suitable for both daily driving and weekend adventures. To experience the latest Highlander model for yourself, visit the Motor Inn of Carroll in Carroll, Iowa.
[1] EPA-estimated 36 city/35 highway/36 combined mpg rating for 2023 Highlander Hybrid LE FWD, Hybrid XLE FWD, Hybrid Bronze Edition FWD, Hybrid Limited FWD and Hybrid Platinum FWD. EPA-estimated 35 city/35 highway/35 combined mpg rating for 2023 Highlander Hybrid LE AWD, Hybrid XLE AWD, Hybrid Bronze Edition AWD, Hybrid Limited AWD and Hybrid Platinum AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
