2023 Toyota Highlander: Timeless Excellence Meets Unmatched Versatility
The Toyota Highlander has been a top SUV since its debut in 2001. However, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has improved things significantly and stands as one of the most versatile options on the market for midsize SUVs. In fact, some may even call it the best midsize SUV despite other options often claiming that title. Not only does it have state-of-the-art features, but it offers solid performance without being too much of a gas guzzler.
Read on to find out why the 2023 Toyota Highlander is still a top SUV despite the 2024 models rolling out.
Solid performance makes the 2023 Toyota Highlander a top SUV
According to Edmunds, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine with a maximum output of 265 horsepower and a torque of 310 lb-ft. This contender for best midsize SUV uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and has front and all-wheel drive configurations. Additionally, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
This is also a top SUV because it delivers decently impressive speeds. Though not the fastest of its class, it accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 7.3 seconds. Regarding fuel economy, it averages 22 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. This puts it in line with many of the best nonhybrid midsize SUVs on the market. Notably, the 2022 Toyota Highlander offers much of the same.
The Highlander is a contender for best midsize SUV because of its interior
One of the biggest reasons the 2023 Toyota Highlander is a top SUV is because it is a three-row SUV. This is a popular layout for a wide variety of people, but especially families. The Highlander is spacious and comfortable and uses high-quality materials throughout. There is also a generous amount of cargo storage in the rear of the SUV. This is in addition to the storage options found throughout the cabin.
Regarding interior technology, the Highlander’s options also make it an option for best midsize SUV. While the XE and XLE trims have an eight-inch infotainment display, the higher trims have an impressive 12.3-inch unit. The trims with the bigger screen also have a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
The SUV comes with a six-speaker sound system, but buyers can upgrade it to an 11-speaker JBL premium setup. Of course, the system also works with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, it offers compatibility with Amazon Alexa. Many buyers may still be interested in the 2022 Toyota Highlander as it’s similar in these regards.
The highlander is a safe midsize SUV
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is also a top SUV because it’s a safe vehicle. In fact, it’s a Top Safety + pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Additionally, it has numerous safety features to keep drivers and passengers safe on the road. The vehicle includes Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0, which is one of the best safety systems on the market. The features include the following:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Lane tracing assis
- Road sign assist
- Automatic high beams
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is a solid midsize SUV that competes with many of the best. Not only does it offer sporty performance, but it’s a versatile option that won’t get boring over the years. Of course, many may also like the 2022 Toyota Highlander.