A Comprehensive Review of the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a highly anticipated vehicle that combines fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and advanced technology. In this blog post, we will provide a detailed review of the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, covering its design, performance, interior features, safety, and technology. Let’s dive in!
Selecting a three-row SUV for a growing family, while also keeping costs in check, can be a daunting task or simply another source of stress for busy parents. The 2023 Toyota Highlander doesn’t aim to amaze drivers or captivate with extravagant technology or eye-catching style. Instead, it offers practicality, affordability, and the comforting reliability that Toyota is known for.
The Highlander has been recently restyled to have an aesthetically pleasing appearance that is not overly bold. The front of the vehicle features headlamps with an intense glare, and the trapezoidal grille contributes to its grumpy aesthetic. However, the use of chrome is tastefully restrained. In comparison to the polarizing designs of the Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride, the Highlander’s more understated appearance is likely to have a wider appeal in the mass market.
See more: 2023 Lamborghini Lanzador electric supercar revealed
Contents
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Expert Review
Pros
- Around 600 miles of range
- Great fuel economy
- Loads of cargo space
Cons
- Noisy engine
- Cramped third-row seating
- Feels underpowered at higher speeds
Design
The exterior design of the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is sleek and captivating. It features a bold front grille with chrome accents, LED headlights, and daytime running lights that give it a modern and refined look. The overall shape of the vehicle is aerodynamic, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The Highlander Hybrid also comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a sporty appeal.
Moving to the interior, the cabin offers ample space for up to eight passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives enjoyable for everyone. High-quality materials such as soft-touch surfaces and premium upholstery add a touch of luxury to the interior. The dashboard is well-designed and features an intuitive layout with easy-to-use controls.
Performance
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is powered by a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. This combination delivers a total output of 243 horsepower, providing ample power for daily commuting and highway driving. The hybrid powertrain also contributes to excellent fuel efficiency, with an estimated EPA rating of 36 mpg in combined city and highway driving.
The Highlander Hybrid offers smooth acceleration and responsive handling, making it a joy to drive. It comes equipped with an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT) that optimizes power delivery for a seamless driving experience. The regenerative braking system helps recharge the hybrid battery while also providing smooth and controlled braking.
Interior Features
Inside the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, you will find a host of impressive features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. The base model comes equipped with tri-zone automatic climate control, allowing passengers in different rows to set their desired temperature. All models feature a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
For audiophiles, the available JBL premium audio system delivers exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin. The Highlander Hybrid also offers multiple USB ports and wireless charging options, ensuring that everyone’s devices stay charged on long journeys. Additionally, the available panoramic moonroof adds an airy and spacious feel to the interior.
Safety
Toyota has always prioritized safety, and the 2023 Highlander Hybrid is no exception. It comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that provides peace of mind on the road. Some of the key safety features include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Detects potential collisions with vehicles and pedestrians, providing audio and visual alerts and applying automatic emergency braking if necessary.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing corrective steering inputs if the driver drifts unintentionally.
- Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to match traffic conditions.
- Road Sign Assist: Recognizes and displays important road signs on the vehicle’s multi-information display, helping drivers stay informed.
Technology
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes equipped with an array of advanced technology features to enhance the driving experience. One notable feature is the available 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which provides crisp graphics and an intuitive interface. The system supports navigation and offers real-time traffic updates to help you reach your destination efficiently.
In addition to the infotainment system, the Highlander Hybrid offers a digital rearview mirror that provides an unobstructed view of the road behind you, even if passengers or cargo obstruct your line of sight. This feature greatly improves visibility and enhances safety during maneuvers such as parking or changing lanes.
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Specifications
Overview
Performance
| Engine Name | 4-Cyl 2.5 Liter |
| Trim | LE FWD |
| Horsepower | 243@6,000 |
| Torque | 175@4,400 |
| Number Of Cylinders | 4 |
| Standard MPG | 36/35 |
| Transmission | ECVT Continuously Variable Automatic with Manual Mode Select |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
Interior Dimensions
| Front Headroom | 41.2 in |
| Rear Headroom | 39.4 in |
| Front Legroom | 42.0 in |
| Rear Legroom | 38.7 in |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.0 in |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.7 in |
| Length | 194.9 in |
| Width | 76.0 in |
| Height | 68.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 in |
Weights and Capacities
| Fuel Capacity | 17.1 |
| Cargo Capacity | 16.0/84.3 cu-ft |
| Curb Weight | 4,330 lb |
| Towing Capacity | 1,000/3,500 lb |
| GVWR | 5,960 lb |
| Payload Capacity | 1,630 lb |
| Tonnage | N/A |
Features
| Availability | MSRP | |
|---|---|---|
PACKAGE |
||
| All-Weather Floor Liner Package (PIO)
INCLUDES: Floor Covering; Floor Mats, Plastic/Rubber |
Optional | $358 |
| Carpet Floor Mats and Cargo Liner Package (PIO) | Optional | $358 |
| Carpet Mat Package (PIO)
INCLUDES: Floor Covering; Floor Mats, Carpet |
Optional | $358 |
| Preferred Accessory Package w/ All-Weather Floor Liner (PIO)
INCLUDES: Cargo Net-Envelope; First Aid Kit; Floor Covering; Floor Mats, Plastic/Rubber |
Optional | $432 |
| Preferred Accessory Package w/ Carpet Mats (PIO)
INCLUDES: Cargo Net-Envelope; First Aid Kit; Floor Covering; Floor Mats, Carpet |
Optional | $432 |
| Protection Package #3 (PIO)
INCLUDES: Body Side Moldings; Door Edge Guards; Rear Bumper Protector; Wheels, with Locking Wheel Nuts |
Optional | $595 |
| Quick Charge Cable Package (PIO) | Optional | $70 |
ENGINE |
||
| 4-Cyl 2.5 Liter | Standard | |
TRANSMISSION |
||
| ECVT Continuously Variable Automatic with Manual Mode Select | Standard | |
EXTERIOR COLOR |
||
| Blueprint | No Charge | |
| Celestial Silver Metallic | No Charge | |
| Cypress | No Charge | |
| Magnetic Gray Metallic | No Charge | |
| Midnight Black Metallic | No Charge | |
| Moon Dust | No Charge | |
| Ruby Flare Pearl | No Charge | |
| Wind Chill Pearl | No Charge | |
BRAKES |
||
| 4 Wheel Disc w/ABS | Standard | |
| Brake Assist System | Standard | |
| Hand Brake, Electronic | Standard | |
CONVENIENCE |
||
| Air Conditioning: Three-Zone Climate Control | Standard | |
| Apps Control | Standard | |
| Bluetooth® | Standard | |
| Cargo Hooks | Standard | |
| Cargo Net-Envelope (PIO) | Optional | $49 |
| onnection to External Entertainment Devices | Standard | |
| Cruise/Speed Control, Adaptive | Standard | |
| Cupholders, Front, Rear and 3rd Row | Standard | |
| Engine Start Button | Standard | |
| Entry System, Illuminated | Standard | |
| Hatch/Trunk Closer, Automatic | Standard | |
| Memory Adjustment | Standard | |
| Multi-Function Display Screen, 7.00-Inch | Standard | |
| Power Locks, With Passive Access (Card Key) | Standard | |
| Power Outlet, 12v: Front(2) | Standard | |
| Power Trunk/Hatch Pull-Down | Standard | |
| Power Windows | Standard | |
| Secondary Ventilation Controls | Standard | |
| Smart Card/Key | Standard | |
| Telematics | Standard | |
| Text to Speech / Speech to Text | Standard | |
| Trip Computer | Standard | |
| Trunk/Hatch Release, Remote | Standard | |
| Ventilation System With Micro Filter | Standard | |
| Voice Activating System, with Radio Settings, Phone | Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Network | Standard | |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Standard | |
DRIVE |
||
| Drive: Front-Wheel Drive | Standard | |
ENGINEERING |
||
| Auto Start-Stop | Standard | |
| Autonomous Drive Active Lane Control (Level 2) | Standard | |
| Axle Ratio, 3.542 | Standard | |
| Battery, 1.90 Kwh Nickel Metal Hydride | Standard | |
| Driver Modes: Engine Mapping | Standard | |
| Electric Driven Wheels | Standard | |
|
Electrical System, 12v |
Standard | |
|
Energy Recuperation, Engine |
Standard | |
|
Traction Control, Electronic, Traction Control (Trac) |
Standard | |
EXTERIOR
|
||
|
Active Grille Shutters |
Standard | |
|
Blackout Emblem Overlays (PIO) |
Optional | $175 |
|
Body Side Molding (PIO) |
Optional | $250 |
|
Bumpers, Front and Rear Black |
Standard | |
|
Chrome/Bright Trim, Window Surround |
Standard | |
|
Door Edge Guards (PIO) |
Optional | $130 |
|
Door Handles (Exterior), Body Color |
Standard | |
|
Doors, Front-Hinged Front and Rear |
Standard | |
|
Mudguards (PIO) INCLUDES: Mud Flaps |
Optional | $129 |
|
Privacy Glass |
Standard | |
|
Rear Bumper Applique (PIO) |
Optional | $69 |
|
Rear Bumper Protector (PIO) |
Optional | $135 |
|
Rear Door, Lifting Gate |
Standard | |
|
Roof Rack Cross Bars (PIO) |
Optional | $350 |
|
Running Boards (PIO) |
Optional | $599 |
| Spoiler, Roof | Standard | |
| Window, Rear | Standard | |
| Windows, 3rd Row | Standard | |
| Windows, Rear Side | Standard | |
INTERIOR |
||
|
Armrest, Front Seat Center |
Standard | |
|
Cargo Cover (PIO) |
Optional | $179 |
|
Floor Covering, Carpet In Passenger And Load Area |
Standard | |
|
Frameless HomeLink Mirror (PIO) INCLUDES: Coming Home Device; Garage Door Opener; Rear View Mirror, Automatic |
Optional | $175 |
|
Light, Cargo Area |
Standard | |
|
Luxury Trim, Alloy Look On Console; Doors And Instrument Panel |
Standard | |
|
Main Dashboard Display |
Standard | |
|
Steering Wheel: Leather-Trimmed, Tilt Telescoping Steering Wheel |
Standard | |
|
Universal Tablet Holder (PIO) |
Optional | $99 |
|
Vanity Mirror: Illuminated Driver And Passenger Vanity Mirror |
Standard | |
| LIGHTING | ||
| Illuminated Door Sills (PIO) | Optional | $345 |
|
LED Lights: High Beams, Rear Lights, Brake Lights, Low Beams, Side Indicator, Front Fog |
Standard | |
|
Reading Lights, Front and Rear |
Standard | |
| MIRRORS
|
||
|
Body-Color Heated Driver And Passenger Power Door Mirrors With Turn Signals |
Standard | |
| OTHER
|
||
|
Cargo Tote (PIO) |
Optional | $60 |
|
Powertrain Warranty, 60 Months/60000 Miles |
Standard | |
|
Warranty Full Service, 24 Months / Other Miles |
Standard | |
| PAINT
|
||
|
Metallic |
Standard | |
|
Paint Protection Film (PIO) |
Optional | $439 |
|
Special Color |
Optional | $425 |
| SAFETY
|
||
|
Airbag, Front |
Standard | |
|
Airbag, Side |
Standard | |
|
Airbag, Side Curtain |
Standard | |
|
Airbags, 8 |
Standard | |
|
Airbags, Knee |
Standard | |
|
Center High Mount Stop Light |
Standard | |
|
Collision Warning System, Pre-Collison System |
Standard | |
|
Emergency Assistance Kit (PIO) |
Optional | $75 |
|
First Aid Kit (PIO) |
Optional | $25 |
|
Front Fog Lights |
Standard | |
|
Headlight Control, Dusk Sensor |
Standard | |
|
Headlights, LED |
Standard | |
|
Hill Holder |
Standard | |
|
Isofix Preparation |
Standard | |
|
Lane Departure Warning System |
Standard | |
|
Lights, Daytime Running |
Standard | |
|
Low Tire Pressure Indicator |
Standard | |
|
Overtaking Sensor, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) |
Standard | |
|
Parking Assistance |
Standard | |
|
Parking Distance Sensors, Rear Camera |
Standard | |
|
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Radar |
Standard | |
|
Seatbelt Warning |
Standard | |
|
Theft Deterrent System |
Standard | |
|
Traffic Sign Recognition |
Standard | |
|
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) |
Standard | |
|
Windscreen Wiper/De-Icer |
Standard | |
|
Windshield Wipers, Variable Intermittent |
Standard | |
SEATS |
||
| Driver Seat, 8-Way Power Bucket; Passenger Seat, Bucket | Standard | |
| Rear Seats, Split Bench Split Folding | Standard | |
|
Seat Upholstery, Cloth |
Standard | |
|
Seat Upholstery/Color, Black Fabric Cloth |
No Charge | |
|
Seat Upholstery/Color, Graphite Fabric Cloth |
No Charge | |
|
Seat, Third Row Bench |
Standard | |
|
Seating, 8 |
Standard | |
| SOUND
|
||
|
Audio System, AM/FM Radio, Digital/Satellite Radio with Color Multi-Touch Screen |
Standard | |
|
Remote Audio Controls |
Standard | |
|
Six Speakers |
Standard | |
| SPECIAL FEES/CREDITS/OPTIONS
|
||
|
Warranty, Battery – 150 miles/120 months |
Standard | |
SUSPENSION
|
||
|
Front Strut/Rear Wishbone w/ Coil Springs |
Standard | |
| TIRES
|
||
|
P235/65SR18 All Season BSW |
Standard | |
|
Spare Tire, Limited Use w/Steel Rim |
Standard | |
| TOWING
|
||
|
Trailer Stability Program, Trailer-Sway Control (TSC) |
Standard | |
| WHEELS
|
||
|
18″ Alloy |
Standard | |
|
Alloy Wheel Locks (PIO) |
Optional | $80 |
|
Single Rear Wheels
|
Standard |
Warranty
| Free Maintenance, Miles | 25,000 | Free Maintenance, Months | 24 |
| Full Warranty Months | 36 | Full Warranty Miles | 36,000 |
| Powertrain Warranty Months | 60 | Powertrain Warranty Miles | 60,000 |
| Roadside Warranty Months | 24 | Roadside Warranty Miles | Unlimited |
| Corrosion Warranty Months | 60 | Corrosion Warranty Miles | Unlimited |
Safety
| IIHS Front Moderate Overlap | Good | IIHS Overall Side Crash | Good |
| IIHS Best Pick | 0 | IIHS Rear Crash | Good |
| IIHS Roof Strength | Good | IIHS Front Small Overlap | N/R |
| NHTSA Rating Front Driver | Not Rated | NHTSA Rating Front Passenger | Not Rated |
| NHTSA Rating Front Side | Not Rated | NHTSA Rating Rear Side | Not Rated |
| NHTSA Rating Overall | 5 | NHTSA Rating Rollover | 4 |
Incentives & Rebates
| Amount | Description | Expiry Date |
|---|---|---|
| $750 | Toyota announces a Bonus Cash offer on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 01/03/2024 |
| $500 | Toyota announces a College Graduate Rebate on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 01/02/2024 |
| $500 | Toyota announces a Military Rebate on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 01/02/2024 |
| $1000 | Toyota announces Bonus Cash on select models for eligible current owners. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 3.49% Financing for a maximum term of 48 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 6.49% Financing for a maximum term of 72 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $500 | Southeast Toyota announces a Loyalty cash for eligible returning lessees that purchase or lease select new models and finance through S. East Toyota Financial. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $1000 | Toyota announces a Storm Relief Customer Support Program offer on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 11/27/2023 |
| $0 | 2.9% Financing for a maximum term of 36 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 4.99% Financing available for varying term lengths : 36, 48 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 5.49% Financing for a maximum term of 72 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 5.99% Financing for a maximum term of 60 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $750 | Toyota announces a Military Rebate on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $0 | 4.49% Financing for a maximum term of 60 Months – Toyota announces special APR Financing on select models. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
| $1000 | Toyota announces a Lease Loyalty Program on select models for eligible current lessees. [Regional Incentive. See dealer for availability.] | 10/31/2023 |
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Price
| TRIM | MSRP |
Fair Market Price ? |
5-Year Cost to Own | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE FWD | $40.620 | $44.721 | $45.153 / Excellent | |
| LE AWD | $42.220 | $46.490 | $46.637 / Excellent | |
| XLE FWD | $43.620 | $48.043 | $47.566 / Excellent | |
| XLE AWD | $45.220 | $49.820 | $49.067 / Excellent | |
| Bronze Edition FWD | $46.380 | $51.115 | $49.710 / Excellent | |
| Limited FWD | $47.875 | $52.783 | $51.081 / Excellent | |
| Bronze Edition AWD | $47.980 | $52.902 | $51.261 / Excellent | |
| Limited AWD | $49.825 | $54.763 | $52.978 / Excellent | |
| Platinum FWD | $51.075 | $56.098 | $53.711 / Excellent | |
| Platinum AWD | $53.025 | $58.180 | $55.431 / Excellent |
The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an impressive vehicle that offers a winning combination of fuel efficiency, spaciousness, safety features, and advanced technology. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV or a comfortable commuter vehicle, the Highlander Hybrid delivers on all fronts. With its sleek design, powerful yet efficient hybrid powertrain, well-appointed interior, and cutting-edge technology, this vehicle is undoubtedly worth considering. Visit your nearest Toyota dealership to experience the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid firsthand and take it for a test drive today!
