2021 Toyota Highlander Review: Safety for Seven (or Eight) | CarGurus
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ก.ค. 2024
- The 2021 Toyota Highlander might not burn rubber, but newly standard safety features make it an even more compelling crossover than before.
Shop for the new 2021 Toyota Highlander on CarGurus: cargur.us/C7HnS
Shoppers with more than a couple kids consider the Toyota Highlander almost by default. Now in its 20th year, the Highlander thrives as a safe and comfortable mall-cruiser. It has plenty of space, a rock-solid powertrain, and a peculiar touchscreen.
For more information on the 2021 Toyota Highlander, read Matt Smith's full review on CarGurus: cargur.us/FnX1n
Presenter: Matt Smith
Cinematography: Elliot Haney
Written review: Matt Smith
Subscribe to the CarGurus Channel: / cargurus
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0:00 Introducing the 2021 Toyota Highlander
0:56 the Highlander's Exterior and Redesign
2:35 Five Things to Know
3:40 Engine Stats
3:58 Driving Impressions
5:22 Interior Overview
6:09 Second Row Experience
6:43 Cargo Space
7:10 Infotainment and Technology
8:17 Advanced Safety Systems
8:55 Pricing and Final Thoughts - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
I am hooked on the Toyota Highlander. This is my third Highlander. I travel a lot for business and rent cars when i arrive at my destination. I rent other make SUVs when traveling to compare with the Highlander. I haven't found anything I like better. I am always happy to return home to my Highlander. You can't beat the comfort, luxury, space, and safety features for the price. Since the time I started this comment, my lease ran out and I am now driving a 2021 Highlander Limited. This model Highlander is outstanding in performance, handling and, comfort. this model exceeded my expectations.
Have you driven the Kia Telluride?
We've been doing rental SUV comparisons for a few years and, like you, we liked the Highlander best. Finally got one for ourselves yesterday. Love it.
how long did you have the first two?
@@vicmajid973 I drove the 2002 Highlander until 2016 and then gave it to my son. He drove it two more years. I leased a 2016 Highlander LE and at the end of the lease leased a 2018 Highlander XLE. Now I have a 2021 Highlander 2021 Limited. This model Highlander is outstanding in performance, handling and, comfort. You barely touch the accelerator and it takes off with ease...wonderful for merging onto a freeway. I absolutely love the 360-degree bird's eye view. You can see EVERYTHING...a wonderful safety feature. All cars should have it.
Yes we bought the Highlander. Top 3 were Telluride, Explorer, and Highlander. Resale value, durability, and history of reliability and styling pushed us easily into the XSE highlander.
does it have a hidden compartment under the cargo floor?
@@josephl6788 I’m gonna say yes. But it’s not like the explorer where it’s entirely useable. There is a spare tire and stuff under there that takes up some space.
I love our 2021 Highlander Limited we purchased in December 2020 - traded in our 2016 Highlander XLE and got a really good deal. These SUV's retain their value very well. The suspension is much better and smoother in just 5 years of owning the prior Highlander. Love the huge touch screen and agree that it would be nice to get the full screen map.
We just bought a 2021 XLE Highlander. It is front wheel drive and that is all we need here in Tennessee. Even in the average snow we get, the front wheel drive will do just fine. The one we purchased had factory installed running boards too, which is a nice touch. Really loving the Highlander! Enjoyed the review!
Fantastic review by this guy. I normally do not watch CarGurus videos, but I will if this guy is doing the reviews. It was an easy relaxed informative video that covered many topics. Thank you.
I figured out why this car sells well in the U.S; wide capacity with low rooftop, unlike minivans. A sense of luxury in equipment also feels cozy. Thanks!
Purchase a 2023 Highlander with a new turbo four engine that is almost as fast as my V8 Lexus. Have the platinum model it is extremely luxurious. Would never think of another brand Toyota has the most reliability!
Went with the 2021 highlander LE model. Really liked the extra features on the XSE model, but for $100.00 more per month I decided to save that on the lease. I really hope to enjoy the next 3 years of this vehicle. :)
I bought Highlander XLE AWD 2021 wow we don’t have go for limited or platinum XLE is better and better price this my second Highlander.. love Highlander
How long did you have the first one?
@@vicmajid973 2013
In the Hybrid version, it makes for a very very good value proposition. Toyota is a world leader in Hybrid vehicles with over 23 years experience started with the Prius; an undisputed first in class. If size capacity is important to you and you wish to do your part in reducing gas emissions for the benefit of the environment, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the way to go.
We just bought our 21 base model highlander and it does not feel “base model” at all! It is a sweet ride. Beautiful and smooth. All seats recline, even the third row. So happy with my purchase!
Same. We just bought a '21 L a couple days ago. My wife sat in the driver's seat and instantly said it's the one. We checked out the Ascent, Palisade, Telluride, Explorer and she just didn't a vibe from any of them.
@@BastosKevin for how much?
For how much?
I love this design of the Highlander. Just got a 2021 hybrid Platinum. Beautiful Ruby Flare red with Caramel interior.
Love your videos specially this one full detailed informations.
I had a 2012 highlander, then a 2017 MDX and now a 2021 GLE350. For some reason I enjoyed the Highlander the most. I would buy it again.
Love my 2018 HIghlander. Just wish I had gotten AWD when I purchased it at the beach in NC. I have a 2022 AWD on hold and am waiting for delivery now that I am living in the mountains. I had a 2016 Rav 4 before I traded it for my 2018 HIghlander. Time to move on to a 2022 AWD! Great vehicle that rides just like the 3 Lexus SUV's we had.
We have one and we love the design. It's what drew us in for even considering the Highlander. We always thought it was boring; not anymore.
When he mentioned the a/c is directed at his reseeding hair line 😂 I feel you brother!
Bought a 2007 Highlander new, drove over 150,000 miles, gave it to my son who is still driving it. Now over 250,000 miles. Replaced it with a new 2014 Highlander and have driven it over 126,000 so I’m starting to consider replacing it with another Highlander. I love the reliability of Highlanders. What I don’t like about the 4th generation Highlander is elimination of the rear lift window which I constantly use. My wife and I travel cross country frequently and the Highlander is perfect, but I also need leg room and I’ve told front seat room has been diminished. I haven’t sat in the 4th generation yet due to COVID, but I soon will be checking them out.
Recently ordered the XLE V6 model, can't wait for it to arrive. Here in Canada you can only get the 12" infotainment screen on the Platinum model, and although I would have liked the other premium features like the JBL audio and panoramic roof, the additional cost wasn't worth it for us ($55,450 CAD for platinum trim vs. $47,600 for XLE), especially considering the larger screen does not have any increased functionality over the smaller one.
To be honest, if the latest and greatest infotainment is important to you then the Highlander is going to be a disappointment and it may be worth waiting until the new system that's in the Tundra and Sequoia works its way down into the Highlander. Personally I find touch screens are a big distraction, forcing you to take your eyes off the road for too long to interact with it, and much prefer a command knob style like Mazda uses. Overall it was the perfect size, safety features, resale value and bomb proof V6 engine that sold me on the Highlander, and I am willing to live with the sub-par infotainment.
Just purchased Highlander LE, 2021. Love it. my second Highlander: first one 2010, 206,000 miles, no problems. My son is driving it to work. ALSO: not mentioned: 2021 can tow 5,000 pounds, and came standard with tow hitch. (2010-I had to order with tow package.)
This Highlander is impressive!! I’ve never paid any attention to them...until now. Cool video 😎
Palisade and telluride is much better!
@@bradleyscarreviews Nah
@@DrJax0124 they have more tech, power, more luxury, and just as good reliability
Finally the Highlander actually looks good! 🙌
I have no need for a big fat tv screen on my dashboard. So the standard trim infotainment screen is fine. The Highlander is not as ugly as other Toyota vehicles, that's a plus. I would appreciate five seconds more in the review to fully display cargo area with all back seats down. Many people take these vehicles camping, and it would be helpful to see how the vehicle serves that function. Good review.
I appreciate the review. Next time could you please show us the usability of the third row?
I routinely receive compliments from strangers on my 2021 XLE. Love the comfort, electronics and body.
Can you lock the 4 wheels? my 2014 highlander can, up to 25mph
I've just test driven the 2021 gas version and it stll
accelerates well (I have a 2014 Toyota Highlander V6) but it
also still has a lot of torque steer. Tires have become
narrower (235mm wide) compared to my 2014 Toyota Highlander
(245mm wide)
Nice presentation !!!
Could software update expand to Full screen display? That would be nice!
• Is the transmission a double clutch like the RX350? I would like that.
• Certainly would consider over RX since it has cooled seats (AZ), remote start (precool AZ), I hope it has the RX double clutch tranny (it lunges in each gear), better mileage would be good (nice to have 3.5L over our current 2.5 '17 RAV4 Limited, even though I can squeeze over 30mpg with a conservative pedal).
• Thanks
i have a question about all recent cars/suvs/etc. How expensive will it be if there are issues with your car's touch screen? Ten years ago my car dealership told me it would cost $700 to replace the radio/cd player on my 2005 car because, they said, it was part of the console and they would have to remove the entire console to work on it. So I'm thinking problems with the touch screen would also result in very expensive repairs because it's in the console. What do you guys at Car Gurus hear about these types of repairs?
Bought a Black XSE and I love it. 2022
I just bought the 2021 Highlander Platinum and was disappointed with the multimedia display and software. The GMC units are easier to use and more advanced. Other than that I'm fully satisfied.
A full screen navigation would be great.
I have been experiencing wind noise in my 2021 Highlander xse model and I have reached out to the dealership and Toyota but they said this is standard in all 2021 Highlander. How could be standard? Anyone having the same issue? @cargurus any comment on this?
I love the looks
i love weather like this
Very practical & dependable family car Adept review
I don’t think it’s dependable anymore www.motorbiscuit.com/class-action-lawsuit-over-1-million-toyota-8-speed-transmissions/
Good unbiased review 👍
Great review, still puzzled by a 12.3 inch screen that can't expand to full screen on favorites like NAV and Carplay? Why have the larger screen if you can't fully utilize. As you note, it's still nice and I did end up getting the hybrid version.
Is your Hybrid AWD? I’m just curious how good their new system is in snow etc - there’s no mechanical connection between the front and rear wheels
@@ginger_breadman I got My Highlander Hybrid AWD 2021 in Mid January in Quebec, Canada. It's my first AWD car but until now, I can tell my Highlander is really good in Snow. I tried some test in a some streets with more than 4 inches of snow and it was super easy to start and control the SUV. I also tried it in hill with slepery raods and the Highlander start like if I was on pavement. I have Michelin X-ice i2 as tire on 18 inches winter mags. After 6 weeks in Winter with my new car, I can tell it's a really good choice for me. I'm doing around 9L/100km = 26mpg in normal use 80% city. This is the same I was doing with my Mazda3 2014. If I go really smooth with it, I can do 7L/100km = 33,6MPG.
Nice review. *One question : why do I NEED all wheel drive, even in the snow?"* My FWD Odyssey handles GREAT in the snow. My guess is that given the vehicle's weight, the Highlander drives great too in the snow with FWD. If the snow is really bad, I don't go out anyway. Paying more for it plus having a higher mechanical risk wouldn't be worth it for me. However, I can see desire for AWD in hilly or mountainous regions. Regarding the GPS display, having the _OPTION_ to show a full screen would be nice but the screen as it looks fine.
Your area doesn't have much snow likely when compared to my area. I live in Canada and minivans and SUVs with FWD always get stuck since we get over 50cm of snow and nearly everyday 10cm. Many AWD are similar since its mainly FWD but when your stuck, it uses the rear tires to get it out.
@@2012bigPerm How does your Highlander AWD perform in WV’s snowy road conditions?
AWD mostly serves to get a vehicle up to dangerous speeds more quickly in snow. Proper winter tires allow you to steer and stop.
Way better acceleration with AWD but I agree with you, FWD is sufficient for most. I live in Québec where we get 150"+ of snow each year and have been driving a Mini Cooper for 10+ years without issues (ok, I did get stuck once but it was because I was too lazy to shovel the driveway)
Interesting to see the MPG reports on fuelly on the hybrid version. Its not 35/36 its typically 30-33....
I have 2020 Highlander hybrid and I am averaging 42 mpg for the first 7000 miles. I drive 100 % in the city in eco mode.
Great video , what’s best for you Highlander or sorento 2021?
I was actually a little disappointed there were no comparisons to other SUV's in this class as far as cargo capacity and little actually data on engine performance (0-60 mph data) unless I missed it.
Highlander hybrid 👍🏻
Just FYI on the hybrid model, make sure to look into a rear differential issue that may occur around 100k-110k miles. Maybe on older models. Just to prepare yourself for the cost.
Breath taking
Lemme ask:
Does it scream like *"The One"* ?
There is a rear vent under the front seat.
Thanks for the video.This car will soon be available in China.Sir,What do you think of the hybrid power?It will sell for more than $47,000
I wish it was designed similar to the international Fortuner.
Finally highlander more cargo space well mostly 2021 but it strongER
Driver side armrest is way too low it is uncomfortable there's nothing to place your left arm on
This is creeping back towards a station wagon
I Purchased The Lexus RX 350, the deal killer for the Toyota Highlander was not being able to have a full 12.3 screen in the map mode. Toyota truly missed a great feature in their Highlander. The Lexus is a quantum leap above the Highlander in almost all the features.
I preferred the 2019 grill
Yes. Side view is weird not pleasant previous 2019 looks nice
Does anybody else find the front seats not comfortable?
Can you turn off the touch screen ??
Toyota sienna is my favourite family vehicle I want one
Shame they eliminated the operable window hatch.
My Dogs and I loved it.
SAD
You can get the bigger infotainment screen at the XLE trim level but it's gonna cost you an additional $1050. It's not worth it, sorry.
Don't have kids but considering it.
You are right, it is a big design mistake. More looks like a VAN than SUV from outside.
hate the wings on the grill
And the 2016 highlandER need more space cuz when you have kid and highlander you have to find the car that have like more space and if you don't know highlaner 2021 XSE is the better choice
TWINKILICIOUS!!!
I just bought a 2021 Highlander with low miles for only $29K and I am really impressed with it. It looks and feels like a new car. I actually dumped my unreliable Range Rover for it because I aspire to join the 500k-Mile club one day. 🤣
I traded my 2016 platinum limited highlander a month ago for a 4Runner trd off road. I should have done it sooner.
It’s not so plush but I can actually do trails. Love it more each day. The new highlanders look terrible, the 2016 seemed to be the last year of a none soccer mommy minivan.
can the rear window open on the 2021?
No
No comparison/mention of the 3 row SUV king .... Telluride?
I'll be honest. I don't like any of the new style SUV's other than the Telluride and Volvo XC90. But the Telluride is too wide and a smidge too long. I want 7-8 person seating and I want to be high off the road for visibility and comfort and security. I don't like these low to the ground SUV vehicles. I don't like their styling. I like the past Highlander shape. I have a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder and like the size and shape of that car. I don't like their new revised Pathfinder. But I will test drive this vehicle. The Volvo XC90 was a little too big. But a really nice car.
Sounds like you are ready for a Truck ... Tundra, F150 etc
Maybe the Kia Sorento 2021.
Seating for 4 adults and 3 kids
I don't like the character line on the side. Otherwise, it's ok.
Lexus?
Toyota’s for life!
Palisade and telluride is much better!
@@bradleyscarreviews Tge6 are basically better 8n tech and more 3rd room space but Toyotas have high quality durability and reliability
@@arhamkhakwani5851 yea but it doesn’t have as much space as the palisade and telluride and they are higher quality
@@bradleyscarreviews like true, but you can't say quality is better than Toyota. Besides haven't you heard, there was a recall for the palisade about a smell coming from the headrest which never really happens. Dont believe me? Go out and ask Doug Demuro, Consumer Reports, and every other car enthusiast
@@arhamkhakwani5851 yea but that’s just a minor problem. I got something for you, and I’ve sat in the palisade, and it’s much more high quality than the highlander.www.motorbiscuit.com/class-action-lawsuit-over-1-million-toyota-8-speed-transmissions/
xse wit red interior definitely the best one the limited and platinum look too much like a subi
Ojala y que Dios bendiga poderosamente fuerteeeeee y de gran manera!!!!!!++
Not for me. Sucks because I really need it.
This SUV is not for those who are 5-4 or less.
Kind a weird considering that most Japanese are shorter yet.
The power seat does not have enough adjustment up. At the end of up travel it starts tilting forward making sitting uncomfortable for longer travel.
At the comfortable settings, before it tilts, I can’t see the hood, not even the front edge of the hood. Terrible for parking.
My huge Dodge Ram is way better in that respect.
Another No is the ridiculously low height of the trunk. The RAV4 can fit much taller boxes in the trunk than this large SUV. What tha… !?
Hell who could afford it!!!
Or dim the screen
38,810 2020 Toyota Highlanders are included in the recall. In fact, CR reports this recall affects every single 2020 Toyota Highlander, including ones still sitting on dealer lots. Only the models with the 3.5-liter V6 are affected by it, which excludes the hybrid Highlanders. No other Lexus or Toyota product is part of this recall, either.
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Think the design coulda been better
Think the previous gen looked better IMO
Telluride
The venza is much more attractive 😍
XSE loos so much better and more masculine.
Palisade and telluride is much better! XSE looks ugly as hell.
@@bradleyscarreviews I agree the XSE looks ugly
@@vvt2257 yeah but the highlander will go up to 200k miles easy no problems, palisade and telluride will most likely have issues after 100k miles
Its not worth 50k. They have fooled you into thinking that.
Dude it is FOOT Pounds not FEET pounds! You should know that! 🤯🛫
Don't need the whole screen , unless your blind as F...... 8 is alot most don't look at Gps they just listen , radio is same , there's not much there that you need to look at the screen alot ? Think the split works good , less messing around while your driving !
Dont like the screen
It’s good but not that good.
I'm kinda in a toss up now between the Highlander and the Pathfinder.
The 3.5 V6 and transmission on highlander will run forever. I don’t think you will get same from Nissan. Consider resale also
@@bobstone1741 Ah, got it. Thank you for the heads-up.
Toyota has never had a good navigation system. I've owned a 4runner limited and have only tried using it once. Never again. Google Map is better it'll also warn you about speed traps.
He is lying about the interior. Its cheap and looks it. Press down on the dash and listen to the creak and watch it flex. Good vehicle but build quality is average at best. Mazda/ Chevy/ Kia have the better build quality in the class easy
The looks are horrific. They murdered a handsome looking Medium SUV.
2021 highlander better
If higlander is a KIa, it is definitely very ugly. the only reason it looks good is the aura in the name and reliability of a Toyota. But it is ugly and people have no choice in buying a good quality vehicle in an ugly design. Buying one or the Siena
This dude makes me less likely to buy the SUV.
I love Toyota but sorry to say highlander is the worst vehicle they made
This suv is so overpriced. It’s ridiculous. Got Rid of it after three months
Palisade and telluride is much better!
What do you drive now?