2021 Toyota Highlander: A Detailed Overview
The 2021 Toyota Highlander continues its reign as a popular and capable three-row SUV, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and Toyota's renowned reliability. For 2021, the Highlander lineup sees a few minor adjustments, solidifying its position as a strong contender in the family SUV segment.
Highlights
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Engine Options:
- 3.5L V6 Engine: The standard powertrain for most trims is a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration for both city driving and highway cruising.
- Hybrid Powertrain: For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine is available on specific trims. This system combines the gasoline engine with electric motors to achieve an impressive EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined, while still offering a respectable 243 total system horsepower.
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Safety Features: Toyota consistently equips its vehicles with advanced safety technologies, and the 2021 Highlander is no exception. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features that includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Uses a radar and camera system to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid them, including detecting pedestrians.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and can provide gentle steering corrections to keep it centered.
- Automatic High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on lighting conditions and the presence of other vehicles.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to keep pace.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Works in conjunction with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Road Sign Assist: Recognizes and displays certain road signs (like speed limits) on the multi-information display.
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Available on higher trims or as an option, this system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and warns of approaching traffic when reversing.
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Trim Summary: The 2021 Highlander is offered in a well-defined range of trims, each building upon the previous one to offer increasing levels of luxury and features:
- LE: The entry-level trim, providing a solid foundation with essential features, including the V6 engine, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- XLE: Steps up with features like a power liftgate, leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a sunroof, and a larger 7-inch multi-information display.
- SE (and Hybrid SE): Adds a sportier aesthetic with a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling elements, and black interior accents. The Hybrid SE offers the fuel-efficient powertrain with these sporty touches.
- XSE: Further enhances the sporty appeal with a more aggressive exterior design, larger wheels, and premium interior appointments like ambient lighting.
- Limited: Represents a significant step up in luxury, featuring premium leather-trimmed upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and advanced tech features like a premium audio system.
- Platinum (and Hybrid Platinum): The top-tier trim, offering the ultimate in comfort and technology. This includes a head-up display, premium leather-trimmed seats with heating and ventilation for both front and second rows, a 12.3-inch infotainment display (on non-hybrid), and a surround-view camera system. The Hybrid Platinum offers the same luxury features with the fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Interior Space and Versatility: The Highlander offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers (seven in captain's chair configurations). The second and third rows are generally accommodating for adults on shorter journeys, and the split-folding seats provide good cargo flexibility.
- Ride Comfort: Toyota has tuned the Highlander for a comfortable and composed ride, making it well-suited for long road trips and daily commutes.
- Infotainment System: The user-friendly infotainment system is intuitive to operate, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration standard across all trims, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience of a 2021 Toyota Highlander is characterized by its dependability and low cost of ownership. Toyota's reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the Highlander is known for its robust engineering and longevity.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, will be straightforward and generally affordable. Finding qualified service centers is easy, given Toyota's widespread dealership network. Expect typical maintenance costs associated with mid-size SUVs, which are generally competitive.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2021 Highlander are typically moderate. Factors influencing your specific rates will include your driving record, location, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim selected. Its strong safety ratings and advanced safety features may contribute positively to insurance costs.
Potential Considerations
While the 2021 Toyota Highlander excels in many areas, there are a few potential considerations buyers might want to be aware of:
- Third-Row Space: While the Highlander accommodates up to eight, the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults on shorter trips. Adults will likely find it cramped for extended journeys.
- Cargo Space Behind the Third Row: With all seats in use, the cargo area behind the third row is somewhat limited compared to some rivals. You'll need to fold down the third row for more substantial cargo hauling.
- Base Engine Performance (Hybrid): While the hybrid powertrain is excellent for fuel economy, the combined horsepower is less potent than the V6. This might be noticeable during spirited acceleration or when carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.
- Sportier Trims' Ride: While the SE and XSE trims offer a sportier feel, the sport-tuned suspension might translate to a slightly firmer ride compared to the LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims.
Overall Summary
The 2021 Toyota Highlander remains a highly recommendable choice for families seeking a capable, comfortable, and reliable three-row SUV. Its strong standard safety features, user-friendly technology, and available fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain make it a practical and sensible option. While the third-row space and cargo capacity behind it are not class-leading, the Highlander's overall balance of qualities, coupled with Toyota's enduring reputation for quality and dependability, solidifies its position as a top-tier contender in its segment.