4th Generation Toyota Highlander (and Grand Highlander) Thread

LexsCTJill

LexsCTJill

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we saw it for the first time. Looked really good. Front end is killer. I did not like the glossy materials inside. Too bad there was no 3rd delete version It is clear that another larger Toyota is on the way IMO3694
 
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Motor

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Toyota Rolls Seven 2021 Special Editions Into Chicago Auto Show
Highlander XSE: More Fun for the Parents

In the Toyota world, the XSE badge signals a drive on the sporty side with specially tuned handling suspension, unique exterior styling, and exclusive interior trim. For 2021, and for the first time in its 20-year history, the Highlander family SUV gets the XSE treatment. The fourth-generation Highlander, just introduced for 2020 and built on the Toyota New Global Architecture, offers the ideal platform for an athletic transformation.

Designed for people who need SUV practicality but really miss driving sport sedans, the Highlander XSE combines bold exterior design with more agile driving reflexes. Positioned between the XLE and Limited grades, the 2021 Highlander XSE is briskly motivated by a 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that’s teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s available with either front-wheel drive or Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive.

In addition to being able to send up to 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels, this advanced AWD system can control the left/right torque distribution to the rear wheels for a more engaging driving experience. In addition, the Multi-Terrain Select feature, controlled by a dial on the center console, allows the driver to adjust drivetrain responses to prevailing road and weather conditions.

The Highlander XSE handles curves as well as its design takes compliments. In addition to exclusive machined-faced 20-inch wheels with black accents, the XSE model is equipped with higher-rate springs and rear stabilizer bar, and the shock absorbers have been re-tuned for lower friction. Electric power steering has also been re-tuned for a sportier steering feel. These carefully calibrated new parts boost handling agility for the XSE while preserving Highlander’s renowned ride comfort.

To make the XSE grade, Highlander received a bumper-to-bumper style makeover. The front fascia, grille, and lower spoiler are exclusive to this model and impart a more aggressive stance. The restyled upper grille joins a much larger lower air intake integrated into the new bumper, with a spoiler below that. Unique headlamps feature black accents and light-strip DRLs.

In profile, unique rocker panels add an edgy accent to the Highlander XSE’s sculpted lines. Around back, there’s a shocker: the first-ever exposed dual-tip exhaust on a Highlander – and chromed, no less. Black roof rails, mirror caps, and window moldings dial up the subtle cool factor.

Inside, the Highlander XSE rocks black Softex-trimmed seats with fabric inserts, while ambient lighting and carbon-fiber finish on the instrument panel sets the mood. A striking two-tone red and black leather-trimmed interior with red-stitched instrument panel is available and is sure to incite a bit of carpool envy.,

The 2021 Highlander XSE comes ready to take on all devices with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa compatibility, as well as five USB ports and an all access 3-month trail of SiriusXM®.

The Highlander XSE will also offer an available Premium Audio 1200-Watt, 11-speaker JBL sound system with dynamic navigation, breathing new life into old hair bands.

Toyota anticipates that about 12 percent of Highlander buyers will opt for this edgier family hauler. Other updates to the 2021 Highlander will be announced later, but the XSE is slated for launch this fall.
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I'm glad Toyota made this trim, but now they need to PRIME it.
 
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suxeL

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Yup another obvious question/answer found by the folks at TFL. They make good content, just not this one.
 
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Motorsnwheels

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That vehicle will do just fine for the family, whether it’s to and from work, the mall, restaurant or grocery store in any weather condition with its AWD system. If I needed a vehicle to go any more than 1 mile down a gravel or dirt path I would not be buying the Highlander.
 
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spwolf

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Motorsnwheels said:
That vehicle will do just fine for the family, whether it’s to and from work, the mall, restaurant or grocery store in any weather condition with its AWD system. If I needed a vehicle to go any more than 1 mile down a gravel or dirt path I would not be buying the Highlander.
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Why not? People have houses on gravel roads, and go there with their Camry, Sienna and whatnot, so why wouldnt they go there with Highlander with any of its AWD systems?
 
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Motorsnwheels

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spwolf said:
why not? People have houses on grave roads, and go there with their Camry, Sienna and whatnot, so why wouldnt they go there with Highlander with any of its AWD systems?
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To clarify I did say if “I” meaning myself were to be traveling down gravel roads I personally wouldn’t go for a Highlander. I go up north occasionally and there’s 6 miles of gravel roads. The Camry gets trashed, and I wouldn’t dare bring it in the winter because the road barely gets plowed.
 
mikeavelli

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It hasn't won any comparo's yet. It just lost to the van looking Pilot again. The Telluride also won a big comparison.
 
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