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2021 Toyota Highlander Model Review - Springfield, MO

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What's New For the 2021 Toyota Highlander?

The 2021 Toyota Highlander carries over the same from 2020 in terms of style and mechanics. The interior of the existing trim levels also stays the same, but this year, a new trim is added to the lineup that provides more accessories and conveniences. This trim, called the XSE, falls into the middle of the Highlander lineup. It brings the total number of trim options for the Highlander to six from the previous five. The Toyota Highlander is also produced in a hybrid model, but the hybrid doesn't see any substantial changes in 2021. You'll have the same four trims with great features and the hybrid's exceptional fuel economy in 2021.

Available Features in the 2021 Toyota Highlander

Some trim levels of the 2021 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid overlap, but the Highlander has more trims available overall. The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid base trim have a different name, but many of the same features are standard on both, including an eight-inch infotainment system. Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa are added to both models, and they get a stereo system with six speakers. A WiFi hotspot is standard as well.

The LE trim on the Highlander gets a leather-wrapped gear shift knob and a leather steering wheel, along with a power liftgate and fog lights. You have the option to seat seven occupants with the XLE trim level, which replaces the bench-style seat with captain's chairs in the back. Wireless charging is standard, along with a sunroof and roof rails on the two Highlander models.

A new trim, called the XSE, comes next with ambient lighting, and it includes navigation with the infotainment system. The Limited on both trims has leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and a JBL sound system. A 115V power outlet is also added to the list. The Platinum trim gets automatic wipers, a sunroof, and heated seats in the second row. Its touchscreen has a larger 12.3-inch screen.

How Much Power Does the Highlander Have?

A gasoline engine powers the 2021 Toyota Highlander, while the Hybrid gets an electric motor along with the engine. The Highlander's engine produces 295 HP, and it is paired with an eight-speed transmission. An automatic transmission also comes with the Highlander Hybrid, which achieves 243 HP in total. Front-wheel drive is standard on both.

Safety Features in the Forefront for 2021

The Highlander comes with a Safety Connect emergency communications system and the Safety Sense package with automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and forward collision mitigation.