The Toyota Highlander stands out as a versatile three-row SUV, perfectly blending family-friendly practicality with adventurous spirit. Powering every gas model is a robust 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower, complemented by an 8-speed automatic transmission and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Drivers can enhance their experience with available Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive and Multi-Terrain Select, alongside cutting-edge tech features like an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen and JBL audio system.
Navigating the Toyota Highlander trim levels can be crucial to finding the model that best fits your needs. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the 2023 Toyota Highlander trims – L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum – highlighting their key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Exploring the 2023 Toyota Highlander Trim Options
Toyota offers an impressive six trim levels for the gasoline-powered 2023 Highlander. Each trim is equipped with the same capable 265-horsepower 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-Wheel Drive comes standard across all trims, while All-Wheel Drive is available for the L, LE, and XLE models. For enhanced handling, Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive is offered on the XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims.
Let’s delve into the specific features of each Toyota Highlander trim to understand what sets them apart.
Toyota Highlander L: The Essentials
The Highlander L serves as the entry point to the lineup, providing a solid foundation of essential features and Toyota’s renowned reliability. Even in its base form, the L trim is well-equipped, offering:
- Exterior Lighting: LED projector headlights with Daytime Running Lights and LED taillights ensure excellent visibility.
- Wheels: 18-inch painted alloy wheels combine durability with a stylish look.
- Climate Control: Three-zone automatic climate control maintains comfort for all passengers.
- Seating: Fabric-trimmed seats offer comfortable and durable seating surfaces.
- Driver’s Seat Adjustability: An 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat allows for personalized comfort behind the wheel.
- Connectivity: Five USB ports and two 12V outlets keep devices charged and ready.
- Information Display: A 7-inch Multi-Information Display provides crucial vehicle data at a glance.
- Convenience: Smart Key System with Push Button Start adds ease to every drive.
- Infotainment: An 8.0-inch touchscreen with six speakers provides access to entertainment and vehicle controls.
- Smartphone Integration: Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility for seamless smartphone connection.
- Safety Suite: Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ suite of safety and driver-assistance features.
Alt text: Silver 2023 Toyota Highlander L trim level, front view, showcasing standard LED headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Highlander L is a great choice for buyers seeking a capable and well-rounded SUV with essential features at a competitive price point.
Toyota Highlander LE: Stepping Up in Convenience
Moving up to the Highlander LE trim introduces enhanced convenience and safety features compared to the base L model:
- Mirrors: Heated power outside mirrors with blind spot warning indicators enhance visibility and safety in various weather conditions.
- Fog Lights: LED fog lights improve visibility in foggy or low-visibility conditions.
- Liftgate: Height-adjustable power liftgate provides easier access to the cargo area, especially when your hands are full.
- Interior Accents: Leather-trimmed shift knob and steering wheel add a touch of refinement to the interior.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert provides added safety and awareness when changing lanes or reversing.
Alt text: Dark gray 2023 Toyota Highlander LE trim level, side profile, highlighting power liftgate and heated mirrors.
The Highlander LE builds upon the L trim by adding practical upgrades that enhance both convenience and safety for everyday driving.
Toyota Highlander XLE: Enhanced Comfort and Technology
The Highlander XLE trim elevates comfort and technology, offering a more premium experience compared to the LE:
- Wheels: Upgraded 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels for a more sophisticated appearance.
- Moonroof: Power tilt/slide moonroof brings in natural light and fresh air.
- Seating Material: SofTex®-trimmed seats offer a leather-like feel that is both comfortable and easy to clean.
- Passenger Seat Adjustability: 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat mirrors the driver’s seat adjustability for enhanced passenger comfort.
- Wireless Charging: Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging keeps your devices powered without cords.
- Auto-Dimming Mirror: Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® reduces glare and integrates garage door opener functionality.
- Driver’s Seat Enhancements: 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provides even more customization for optimal driving position.
Alt text: Toyota Highlander XLE trim interior, showcasing SofTex-trimmed seats, power moonroof, and spacious cabin.
The XLE trim is designed for those seeking a higher level of comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for families and commuters alike.
Toyota Highlander XSE: Sporty Styling and Performance
For drivers wanting a more dynamic and sporty SUV, the Highlander XSE trim delivers a unique aesthetic and driving experience:
- Sport Suspension: Sport-tuned suspension provides a more engaging and responsive driving feel.
- Exterior Accents: LED projector headlights with black accents and color-keyed side rocker panels with chrome-finished lower trim create a distinctive sporty look.
- Wheels: Larger 20-inch machined-finish black wheels enhance the athletic stance.
- Roof Rails: Black roof rails add to the rugged and sporty styling while providing utility.
- Exhaust: Twin-tip exhaust outlets emphasize the sporty performance.
- Interior Ambiance: Ambient interior lighting sets a sophisticated and sporty mood inside the cabin.
Alt text: Red 2023 Toyota Highlander XSE trim level, front angle view, highlighting sporty black wheels, grille, and unique XSE styling.
The Highlander XSE is perfect for those who prioritize sporty styling and a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the practicality of an SUV.
Toyota Highlander Limited: Luxury and Premium Features
The Highlander Limited trim elevates the SUV to a realm of luxury, offering premium features and sophisticated amenities:
- Mirrors: Heated power-folding outside mirrors with turn signal and blind spot warning indicators, and puddle lights provide enhanced functionality and safety.
- Wheels: 20-inch chrome-finished wheels add a touch of elegance and luxury.
- Fog Lights: High-output LED fog lights offer superior visibility in challenging conditions.
- Hands-Free Liftgate: Height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate provides ultimate convenience for cargo access.
- Seating Material: Leather-trimmed seats provide a luxurious and comfortable seating experience.
- Climate Comfort Seats: Heated and ventilated front seats ensure comfort in any weather.
- Seat Memory: Seat memory function for the driver’s seat remembers preferred driving positions.
- Digital Gauge Cluster: 12.3-inch gauge cluster provides a modern and customizable driver information display.
- Heated Steering Wheel: Heated steering wheel adds warmth and comfort in cold climates.
- Power Outlet: One 120V outlet provides household power for devices and accessories.
- Upgraded Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen provides a larger and more immersive infotainment experience.
- Premium Audio: 11-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system delivers exceptional sound quality.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of Toyota Highlander Limited trim, featuring leather seats, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, and premium finishes.
The Highlander Limited is for buyers who desire a luxurious SUV experience with advanced technology and premium comfort features.
Toyota Highlander Platinum: The Pinnacle of Highlander Luxury
At the top of the Highlander trim hierarchy sits the Platinum, offering the ultimate in comfort, technology, and advanced features:
- Headlights: LED projector headlights with Adaptive Front-Lighting System automatically adjust headlight direction for enhanced nighttime visibility.
- Wheels: Unique 20-inch alloy wheels further distinguish the Platinum trim.
- Wipers: Rain-sensing windshield wipers automatically activate when rain is detected.
- Panoramic Moonroof: Power Panoramic View Moonroof expands the open-air feeling for both front and rear passengers.
- Seating: Leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs maximize passenger comfort in all seating positions.
- Head-Up Display: 10-inch Head-Up Display projects important driving information onto the windshield.
- Panoramic View Monitor: Panoramic View Monitor provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle for enhanced parking and maneuvering.
- Digital Rearview Mirror: Digital rearview mirror with HomeLink® uses a camera to provide a wider and clearer view behind the vehicle, and integrates garage door opener.
Alt text: Toyota Highlander Platinum dashboard and infotainment system, highlighting the panoramic view monitor, digital rearview mirror, and premium interior features.
The Highlander Platinum is the definitive choice for those seeking the most luxurious and technologically advanced Toyota Highlander experience, with no compromises on features or comfort.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Options
For buyers interested in fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander also comes in hybrid models, available in LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum trims. These hybrid models combine fuel savings with the same Highlander versatility and features.
Find Your Perfect Toyota Highlander Trim
Ready to experience the Toyota Highlander for yourself? Explore the different trim levels and schedule a test drive at your local Toyota dealership to find the Highlander that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.
Want to see how the Highlander stacks up against the competition? Check out this Toyota Highlander vs. Honda Pilot comparison!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Toyota Highlander trim levels?
The Toyota Highlander trim levels include the L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Hybrid versions are also available in LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum trims.
Is a Highlander Limited better than a Highlander XLE?
Neither trim is inherently “better,” but the Highlander Limited offers more premium features compared to the XLE. The Limited adds luxuries like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, and a JBL sound system. The best trim depends on your desired features and budget.
What is the highest package on the Toyota Highlander?
The highest trim level for the Toyota Highlander is the Platinum. It includes the most advanced features and luxurious amenities Toyota offers for this model.
